Job Description

The Preclinical Assistant Professor of Dental Medicine is responsible for the instruction and supervision of dental students in simulation and laboratory settings. This role supports the foundational training of students in operative dentistry, fixed and removable prosthodontics, dental anatomy, and other essential preclinical skills. The instructor ensures that students gain proficiency in hand skills, critical thinking, and adherence to professional and academic standards, preparing them for entry into the clinical phase of their education

Required Qualifications

• DDS, DMD, or equivalent dental degree from an accredited institution.
• Proficiency in basic and advanced restorative dental procedures.
• Eligibility for dental licensure or faculty permit in the state of employment strongly preferred
• Commitment to excellence in teaching, student mentorship, and preclinical education

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior teaching experience in a dental academic setting or simulation laboratory.
• Familiarity with preclinical grading rubrics and assessment tools.
• Experience with digital dentistry, CAD/CAM, or virtual simulation technologies.
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive, student-centered learning environment

Job Duties

• Teach and demonstrate preclinical procedures in simulation labs, including but not limited to operative dentistry, dental anatomy, occlusion, and prosthodontics
• Provide individualized and small-group instruction to guide students through lab exercises and projects
• Reinforce principles taught in didactic courses through hands-on application
• Evaluate student work using established rubrics and performance criteria
• Provide timely, constructive feedback to support skill development and continuous improvement
• Assist with practical examinations, skill checks, and competency assessments
• Ensure lab equipment, instruments, and materials are prepared and maintained for instructional use
• Monitor student adherence to infection control and safety protocols within the lab
• Model professionalism, ethical behavior, and teamwork in all interactions with students and colleagues
• Serve as a mentor to students by supporting their academic and professional development
• Work collaboratively with course directors, faculty, and lab staff to support course objectives and student success
• Participate in faculty meetings, calibration sessions, and departmental planning activities
• Provide input on curriculum development and continuous improvement of preclinical courses
• Contribute to the development and revision of instructional materials and lab manuals
• Support an inclusive and respectful learning environment where all students feel welcome and empowered to succeed
• Demonstrate sensitivity to diverse student needs and learning styles
• Perform additional responsibilities as requested by department chairs or course directors to support the mission and operations of the dental school