National Dental Commission mandates Basic course in Biomedical Research for MDS students, faculty across all dental colleges

The Commission has prescribed the course as a prerequisite for appearing in the first-year MDS university examination and made it compulsory for faculty members seeking recognition as postgraduate guides or co-guides.

According to the circular issued by the NDC in this regard, in pursuance of the objectives of strengthening research capacity, promoting evidence-based dentistry, and enhancing the quality, integrity, and ethical conduct of biomedical research in dental institutions, the Undergraduate and Postgraduate Dental Education Board (UGPG-DEB), NDC, hereby issues the following directions regarding the Basic Course in Biomedical Research (BCBR).

Research competency is an essential component of postgraduate dental education and academic excellence. Structured training in biomedical research methodology equips postgraduate students and faculty members with competencies in research design, epidemiology, biostatistics, research ethics, scientific writing, critical appraisal, responsible conduct of research, and evidence-based practice, thereby improving the quality of dissertations, publications, innovation, and patient care.

Accordingly, all Dental Colleges and Institutions recognised by the NDC shall implement the following-

1 MANDATORY COMPLETION BY POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS

i All postgraduate (MDS) students admitted from the Academic Session 2026-27 onwards shall successfully complete the Basic Course in Biomedical Research (BCBR) offered through the ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology (NIE) online learning platform.

ii The course shall be completed during the before submission of the synopsis of the thesis of the postgraduate programme.

2 ELIGIBILITY FOR UNIVERSITY EXAMINATION

Successful completion of the BCBR course and submission of the course completion certificate shall be a mandatory prerequisite for appearing in the first year MDS University Examination.

3 REGISTRATION FOR THE BCBR COURSE

i Every eligible postgraduate student shall register for the BCBR course within three months of admission to the postgraduate programme.

ii Each institution shall nominate a BCBR Nodal Officer to facilitate student registration, monitor course progress, and maintain records of course completion.

iii Institutions shall ensure timely completion of the course and preserve the certificates in the academic records of the students.

4 FACULTY DEVELOPMENT

i All dental faculty members are strongly encouraged to successfully complete the Basic Course in Biomedical Research (BCBR).

ii Successful completion of the BCBR course shall be mandatory for faculty members seeking recognition as postgraduate (MDS) guides or co-guides.

iii Faculty members already recognised as postgraduate guides are encouraged to complete the course within the timeline.

iv Dental institutions shall maintain records of BCBR certification of faculty members and ensure compliance while recommending faculty members for postgraduate guide recognition.

v Successful completion of the BCBR course may also be considered while assigning research supervision responsibilities and evaluating academic performance in accordance with the applicable regulations.

5 INTEGRATION WITH RESEARCH ACTIVITIES

Institutions shall integrate the knowledge acquired through the BCBR course with postgraduate dissertations, institutional research projects, research ethics training, publication activities, and evidence-based clinical practice.

6 INSTITUTIONAL RESPONSIBILITY

i Every dental institution shall facilitate registration, monitor progress, maintain records of course completion, and ensure compliance by all eligible postgraduate students and faculty members.

ii Institutions shall provide necessary academic and administrative support to enable successful completion of the course.

7 MONITORING

Institutions shall maintain a digital repository of BCBR registration and completion certificates and produce the same during inspections, assessments, accreditation, or whenever required by the National Dental Commission.

8 EFFECTIVE DATE

This Circular shall come into effect from the Academic Session 2026-27 and shall be applicable to all dental colleges and institutions recognised by the National Dental Commission.

To view the circular, click the link below