PhD in Biochemistry is a research-based course which studies living organisms on a molecular level and involves a deep study of biomolecules. This advanced degree incorporates various fields of biological sciences such as genetics, forensics, medicine, plant science, and microbiology. It comprises several seminars, project works, and research in scientific laboratories. Students pursuing a PhD in biochemistry or biophysics typically conduct research in a specialized area of interest, such as protein structure and function, entomology, genetics, or molecular biophysics. They use advanced techniques and equipment to investigate biological systems at the molecular level, with the ultimate goal of understanding how biological molecules work and how they contribute to the functioning of living organisms. The curriculum for a PhD in biochemistry or biophysics typically includes advanced coursework in areas such as molecular biology, biochemistry, physical chemistry, biophysics, and genetics. Students are also expected to complete a research project and write a dissertation based on their findings.
Course Level | Doctorate Degree |
Full Form | Doctorate of Philosophy in Biochemistry |
Duration | 3-5 years |
Examination Type | Semester System |
Eligibility | Master's degree in Biochemistry or its specialization or M. Phil. in Biochemistry with an aggregate of 55% marks or a 5.5 CGPA out of 10 |
Admission Process | Entrance Based |
Top Recruiting Companies | Drug Manufacturing Companies, Public Health Entities, Cancer research institutes, Research Departments, Educational Institutes, Environmental Pollution Control |
Job Positions | Analytical Chemist, Biomedical Scientist, Healthcare Scientist, Clinical Biochemist, Clinical Research Associate, Forensic Scientist, Physician Associate, Research Scientist (Life Sciences), Scientific Laboratory Technician, Toxicologist |
The entrance exam for a PhD in Biochemistry or Biophysics varies depending on the institution. Some universities require students to take the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) General Test, while others may require a subject-specific test such as the GRE Biochemistry, Cell, and Molecular Biology test. Some universities may also require a TOEFL or IELTS test for non-native English speakers.
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A candidate must complete a Master's degree in Biochemistry or its related subjects with an aggregate of 55% marks or a 5.5 CGPA out of 10. |
Candidates with MPhil degree in Biochemistry are also allowed. |
Candidates with a master's degree in Pharmacy or Technology (M Pharm or MTech), or a bachelor's degree program of more than a duration of 4 years like MBBS and BDS will also be considered eligible for this course. |
Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer), differently abled, and other categories shall get a relaxation of 5% of marks. |
The duration of a PhD in Biochemistry or Biophysics varies depending on the program and the student's research progress. Generally, these programs take between 4-6 years to complete.
The selection criteria for a PhD program in Biochemistry or Biophysics typically includes academic performance, research experience and interests, letters of recommendation, and the suitability of the applicant's research goals with the research interests of the faculty members in the program. Some programs may also consider interviews or personal statements as part of the selection criteria.
1 | To apply for a PhD in Biochemistry or Biophysics, applicants should first research the programs they are interested in and review the specific application requirements. |
2 | Most programs require an online application, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and a CV or resume. |
3 | Some programs may also require additional materials, such as writing samples or test scores. |
4 | After the application is submitted, applicants may be invited for an interview or asked to submit additional materials. |
5 | It is essential to keep track of application deadlines and follow up on any requests for additional information. |
The application process for a PhD in Biochemistry or Biophysics typically involves filling out an online application form and submitting supporting documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a CV or resume. Some programs may require additional materials, such as writing samples or test scores. Applicants should carefully review the specific requirements for each program and follow the instructions provided by the university.
The application fee for a PhD program in Biochemistry or Biophysics varies depending on the university. The fee can range from updated Soon, and some universities may offer fee waivers for applicants who demonstrate financial need.
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Job Position | Description |
Research Scientist | Plan and carry out experiments and investigations in a range of scientific areas such as Geoscience, Medical Research, Meteorology and Pharmacology. |
Clinical Laboratory Technologist | Conduct experiments on bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms to know their pathological effects and benefits. May perform tests analyse levels of compounds in human blood, monitor growth of bacteria, and examine the effects of drugs on viruses |
Biochemistry Educator | Teach undergraduates on the subject of biochemistry while pursuing further research and contributing to journals |
Medical Research Scientist | Clinical work where scientists interact with patients in a medical facility bridging the gap between research and clinical medicine, and give advancements in therapeutic treatments. |
Senior Scientist | Senior Scientists are responsible for all the research works being conducted in a research organisation. Also, they are responsible for finding new scopes of research and training their fellow researchers for the same. |
Molecular Biologist | A scientist who concentrates in researching the various biomolecules, their formation, structure, function and properties. |
Clinical Biochemist | Clinical Biochemists research on the various medicines and find new scope of producing new kinds of medicines. |
Some of the top universities for a PhD in Biochemistry or Biophysics 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.