A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Cell and Molecular Biology is a graduate degree that focuses on the study of cells at the molecular level. This field of study encompasses a wide range of topics, including cell structure and function, genetic regulation, protein synthesis, and signal transduction pathways.
Students pursuing a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology typically complete coursework in subjects such as biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and cell biology. They also conduct extensive research in their chosen area of specialization, which may involve laboratory work, data analysis, and scientific writing.
Some potential research areas for a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology include:
Cancer biology: Investigating the mechanisms by which cancer cells grow and spread, and developing new treatments for cancer.
Genetics and genomics: Studying the function and regulation of genes, and how variations in DNA can impact health and disease.
Immunology: Examining the immune system and how it responds to infectious diseases, allergies, and autoimmune disorders.
Neurobiology: Investigating the nervous system and how it controls behavior, learning, and memory.
Stem cell research: Exploring the properties and potential applications of stem cells, which have the ability to differentiate into many different cell types.
Graduates with a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology are well-prepared for careers in academia, industry, government, and healthcare. They may work as research scientists, professors, medical writers, science communicators, or consultants. They may also pursue further training in related fields such as medicine, biotechnology, or public health.
Course Level | Doctorate Degree |
Full Form | Doctorate of Philosophy in Molecular Biology |
Duration | 3 years (minimum) |
Examination Type | Semester type + research thesis |
Eligibility | Candidate with Masters degree in the respective field from a recognized university with minimum 55% marks. |
Admission Process | Entrance-based + Interview |
Course Fee | Updated Soon |
Average Salary | INR 2 to 20 lakhs |
Top recruiting companies | Camris International, Astra Zeneca, Sorrento Therapeutics, AECOM, Takeda Pharmaceutical, Amyris |
Job Positions | Research Biologist, Microbiologist, Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Environmental Scientist, Scientific Communications Manager |
The entrance exam for PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology may vary depending on the university or institution offering the program. Some universities may require students to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or a similar standardized test, while others may have their own entrance exam. Additionally, some universities may require students to submit a research proposal as part of the application process.
Entrance Exam |
CSIR UGC NET |
UGC NET |
IIT JAM |
GPAT |
VITMEE |
The eligibility criteria for studying PhD Molecular Biology are mentioned below:
The students with a master’s degree in the respective field from a recognized institute with minimum 55% aggregate marks are eligible for this course.
Candidates should have a research proposal and an insight of how the research work will be carried out during the PhD programme.
The duration of a PhD program in Cell and Molecular Biology typically ranges from 4 to 6 years, depending on the institution and the research project. During this time, students are expected to complete coursework, pass qualifying exams, and conduct original research.
PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology How to Apply
To apply for a PhD program in Cell and Molecular Biology, candidates should typically submit an online application through the university's website. |
The application should include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a research proposal, and other supporting materials as required by the university. |
The application form for a PhD program in Cell and Molecular Biology typically includes sections for personal information, academic record, research experience, letters of recommendation, and research proposal. Some universities may also require candidates to pay an application fee and submit additional materials such as a personal statement or GRE scores.
The application process for a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology typically involves the following steps:
Research potential universities: | Look for universities that offer a PhD program in Cell and Molecular Biology and evaluate their admission requirements and application deadlines. |
Prepare the application materials: | Collect transcripts, letters of recommendation, a research proposal, and other supporting materials as required by the university. |
Submit the application: | Complete the online application form and submit it along with the required application fee. |
Wait for notification: | Once the application is submitted, wait for the university to review it and notify you of their decision. |
The application fee for a PhD program in Cell and Molecular Biology may vary depending on the university. The fee can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Candidates should check the university website for the exact application fee.
The syllabus for a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology may vary depending on the university, but typically includes the following topics:
Graduates with a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology are in high demand in academia, industry, and government. Some potential job roles include:
Research scientist: | Conducting research and developing new technologies or therapies in the field of molecular biology. |
Professor: | Teaching and conducting research in academic institutions. |
Medical writer: | Writing and reviewing scientific publications or reports for pharmaceutical companies or scientific journals. |
Science communicator: | Communicating scientific concepts to the general public through journalism, media, or education. |
Consultant: | Providing expert advice to businesses or government agencies in the field of molecular biology. |
Graduates with a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology have a range of career opportunities in fields such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and academia. Some potential career paths include:
Research and development: Conducting research and developing new technologies or therapies in the field of molecular biology.
Academic research and teaching: Conducting research and teaching in academic institutions.
Science communication: Communicating scientific concepts to the general public through journalism, media, or education.
Biotech and pharmaceuticals: Developing and testing new drugs, vaccines, or medical devices.
Consulting: Providing expert advice to businesses or government agencies in the field of molecular biology.
Some of the top colleges in India offering a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology include:
Q.1 - What is the procedure for PhD Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.