Developmental Biology

Developmental Biology

Transforming our understanding of growth, development, and repair through cutting-edge research, innovative education, and exceptional clinical care.

Research holding up a sample

Department overview

The Department of Developmental Biology at Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM) brings together clinical expertise in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics with groundbreaking basic research. Our faculty are committed educators and mentors, supporting the academic and professional growth of postdoctoral fellows, orthodontics fellows, pediatric dental residents, DMD students, MD and PhD candidates at Harvard Medical School, and undergraduates at Harvard University.

Associated degree programs

Explore our programs in pediatrics and orthodontics, designed for hands-on training and career advancement.

Clinical expertise

Our full-time clinical faculty deliver exceptional care across prestigious institutions, including:

  • Harvard Dental Center's Faculty Group Practice
  • Boston Children’s Hospital
  • Massachusetts General Hospital

Part-time faculty extend our department’s impact through their expertise in private practice settings.

Research and innovation 

Research conducted by our full-time faculty spans:

  • Early embryonic development
  • Skeletal and vascular morphogenesis
  • Tissue growth and repair regulation
  • Conditions such as osteoarthritis, fibrosis, and osteoporosis

Faculty laboratories

Our labs are dedicated to advancing understanding in these critical areas to improve patient outcomes and further scientific discovery.

Developmental biology news

Stay updated on our latest research, achievements, and innovations.

Orthodontics resident finds inspiration in treating complex cases

Growing up, Jennifer Shahar, MMSc25, and her family hosted a young girl from Poland who traveled to the U.S. to receive cleft lip and palate treatment. The first-hand experience opened her eyes to the crucial role an orthodontist can play in a person’s...
Jennifer Shahar

Investigating the Role of Stem Cells in Tooth Repair

Dr. Yingzi Yang, professor of Developmental Biology, and Dr. Jennifer Gibbs, assistant professor of Restorative Dentistry and Biomaterials Sciences and program director for Endodontics, have been awarded $200,000 in seed grant funding from the Harvard...
Drs. Gibbs and Yang

Department chair

Developmental Biology Department

Discover our team of faculty, research fellows, and staff advancing the field of developmental biology.