Every year in June, the ITI opens the application portal for its Scholarships. We took this opportunity to ask one of our former Scholars, Ethan Ng from Singapore, about his experience, his daily work and what he liked the most about it. He started his Scholarship year in 2024 at the ITI Scholarship Center Queen Mary University of London, Centre for Oral Clinical Research, UK.
What are the three most memorable things you will take away from your Scholarship year?
One of the most memorable aspects of my Scholarship year was my close working relationship with my Scholarship Center Director, Professor Donos. We had frequent contact throughout the week, both in and outside the clinic. I particularly valued our conversations in his office after work, where he generously shared his professional journey and offered thoughtful guidance. My first surgery with him was also a highlight of the year.
The Scholarship also provided unique opportunities that are rarely accessible at this stage of one’s career. I was privileged to attend a global consensus conference with Professor Donos. Being involved in the consensus process itself, rather than only reading the final reports, was an invaluable and eye-opening experience. Beyond clinical and academic training, the scholarship enabled me to collaborate with different research groups and to build lasting friendships and professional connections with colleagues from around the world.
Could you give us an idea of how your working week was structured?
My working week followed a structured schedule, with time divided evenly between clinical research activities at the Centre for Oral Clinical Research and clinical duties at the Royal London Hospital. My clinical exposure spanned restorative dentistry, implant dentistry, periodontology, and peri-implantitis, providing a well-rounded and integrated experience.
Why did you choose this specific Scholarship Center?
My primary motivation was the opportunity to work with Professor Donos at his world-class research center. His contributions to periodontology and implant research across basic science, clinical research, and education were highly influential in my decision.
There were also practical considerations. As English is my primary language, it was important to be based in a center where communication with colleagues and patients would be seamless. The center also supported temporary clinical registration, allowing Scholars to treat patients under supervision.
In addition, London is a lovely city that is well-connected to the rest of Europe. Throughout the year, I was able to attend many conferences and meet many like-minded people, many of whom I keep in touch with.
Which ITI core values do you most strongly identify with and why?
I strongly identify with the ITI’s commitment to evidence-based education and its support of research and early-career clinicians through grants and scholarship programs. These principles are fundamental to advancing implant dentistry and empowering the next generation. I also value the emphasis on education and mentorship and am keen to share knowledge and experiences, just as my mentors have done for me.
Did you feel you were learning a lot?
Absolutely. I gained extensive exposure to all aspects of implant dentistry through Professor Shahdad and the Restorative team. The implant philosophy taught at Queen Mary University of London focuses on minimizing morbidity, without compromising clinical outcomes. The structured planning and stepwise approach underpinning the London Philosophy has significantly shaped my clinical decision-making. Observing and performing surgeries alongside highly experienced clinicians also allowed me to further refine my surgical skills.
In parallel, I was actively involved in all stages of clinical research, including grant writing, study design, and participation in ongoing clinical trials. This experience has been instrumental in preparing me for future research projects.
What were your plans for the time after your Scholarship when you returned home? And how did this experience influence your current position?
After returning home, I resumed my role as a clinician at the National Dental Centre Singapore. In addition to clinical practice, I am involved in postgraduate training, specialist-led clinics, and research collaborations. The scholarship experience sparked a strong interest in academia, and I am now keen to pursue a PhD and continue contributing to clinical research alongside clinical practice.
Why would you recommend our Scholarship program to other young professionals?
The ITI Scholarship program offers exceptional exposure, mentorship, and professional connections that provide an outstanding foundation for clinicians interested in academia and advanced clinical practice. The opportunities and networks developed during the scholarship year are truly career-shaping.
Each year we enable young implant dentistry talents to spend a year abroad at a highly regarded university being mentored by an ITI Fellow at one of our (>40) ITI Scholarship Centers around the globe (you can check them out here: ITI Scholarship Centers).
Are you keen on getting insight into every aspect of implant treatment? Would you like to dive into the complex world of case planning, implant surgery and prosthetic restorations in an international context? Our application portal is open from June 1 to June 14 every year. Don’t hesitate any longer and apply now!
More information available on our website.
