PhD in Nutritional Sciences is a 3-year Completed Program. PhD in Nutritional Sciences is a multidisciplinary field that focuses on the study of nutrients and their roles in maintaining health and preventing diseases. Nutritional sciences research aims to identify the nutrients and dietary components that promote health and to develop effective interventions to prevent or treat diet-related illnesses such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
Course Level | Doctorate |
Course Name | PhD in Nutritional Sciences |
Course Duration | 3 year |
Eligibility Criteria | Master in relevant Subject with 55 % marks |
Fee Structure | Updated Soon |
Admission Process | Merit And Entrance Base |
Job Role | Professor/Researcher, Public Health Nutritionist, Clinical Nutritionist, Food Safety Inspector, etc |
Nutrient metabolism | The study of how nutrients are processed and utilized in the body, including their absorption, transport, and elimination. |
Diet and disease | The investigation of the relationship between diet and the development of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. |
Nutrient-gene interactions | The study of how nutrients interact with genes to affect health and disease risk. |
Nutrient deficiencies | The identification of nutrient deficiencies and the development of strategies to prevent and treat them. |
Nutritional epidemiology | The study of the relationship between diet and health outcomes in populations. |
Nutritional interventions | The development and evaluation of dietary interventions aimed at improving health outcomes. |
There have been many exciting research findings in the field of nutritional sciences in recent years. Here are some highlights:
Gut microbiome: The gut microbiome, the trillions of microorganisms that live in our intestines, has emerged as a hot topic in nutritional sciences research. Studies have shown that the composition of the gut microbiome is influenced by diet and can play a role in many aspects of health, including immune function, metabolism, and mental health.
Plant-based diets: Research has shown that plant-based diets, which are rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts, can be beneficial for health. Plant-based diets have been linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and certain types of cancer.
Nutrigenomics: Nutrigenomics is the study of how nutrients interact with our genes to influence health. This research has led to a better understanding of how dietary components can affect gene expression, and how personalized nutrition recommendations can be developed based on an individual's genetic makeup.
Intermittent fasting: Intermittent fasting, which involves periods of food restriction alternating with periods of normal eating, has gained popularity as a potential way to improve health and longevity. Research has shown that intermittent fasting can improve metabolic health and may have anti-aging effects.
Nutrient density: Nutrient density refers to the amount of nutrients per calorie in a food. Research has shown that consuming a diet that is high in nutrient-dense foods can be beneficial for health and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Admission to a nutritional sciences research program usually requires a bachelor's degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or nutrition.
Some programs may require prerequisite courses in areas such as biochemistry or physiology.
Some institutions may require applicants to have relevant research experience or publications.
Eligibility requirements may vary depending on the institution and program but generally require a bachelor's degree or equivalent.
International students may need to meet additional language proficiency requirements.
The duration of a nutritional sciences research program can vary depending on the institution and program.
A Master's degree program can typically take 1-2 years, while a PhD program can take 4-5 years or more.
Selection criteria may vary depending on the institution and program.
Generally, admission is based on academic performance, research experience, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
Some programs may require applicants to have a minimum GPA or GRE scores.
Applications are typically submitted online through the institution's website or an online application portal.
Applicants may need to provide transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and GRE scores (if required).
International students may also need to provide additional documentation such as language proficiency test scores and financial documentation.
It is important to research the specific requirements and procedures for each institution and program, as they may vary. It is also recommended to reach out to the institution or program directly with any questions or concerns.
The application form and process for a nutritional sciences research program can vary depending on the institution and program. Generally, applications are submitted online through the institution's website or an online application portal. Applicants may need to provide transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and GRE scores (if required). International students may also need to provide additional documentation such as language proficiency test scores and financial documentation. The application process typically involves an application fee.
The application fee for a nutritional sciences research program can vary depending on the institution and program. Fees may range from $50 to $100 or more.
The syllabus for a nutritional sciences research program can vary depending on the institution and program. Generally, the program will cover topics such as nutrition and metabolism, nutrient requirements, food science, diet and disease, research methods, and professional ethics.
The salary and job opportunities for graduates of a nutritional sciences research program can vary depending on the career path pursued. Graduates may find employment in research institutions, government agencies, universities, hospitals, and the food industry. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for dietitians and nutritionists was $63,090 as of May 2020. Salaries may vary depending on the job location, employer, and level of experience.
Graduates of a nutritional sciences research program may pursue a variety of career paths, such as:
Research scientist
Clinical nutritionist
Public health nutritionist
Food industry researcher
Nutraceutical researcher
Academic researcher
Professor/Researcher | Teaching And Conducting Research At Universities And Research Institutions, Contributing To The Academic Community's Knowledge In Nutritional Science. |
Public Health Nutritionist | Working With Government Agencies On Public Health Initiatives, Policy Development, And Nutrition Programs To Promote Health And Well-Being. |
Clinical Nutritionist | Providing Specialized Nutritional Care And Guidance To Patients In Hospitals, Clinics, And Healthcare Facilities |
Food Industry | Product Development Scientist: Formulating And Improving Food Products, Ensuring They Meet Nutritional And Health Standards. |
Nutrition Advisor/Advocate | Working With Organizations Focused On Nutrition And Public Health To Promote Healthy Eating Habits And Address Food-Related Issues. |
Food Safety Inspector | Ensuring Compliance With Food Safety And Nutritional Labeling Regulations To Protect Public Health |
Pharmaceutical Industry | Nutritional Product Developer: Formulating Nutritional Supplements And Products To Support Health And Well-Being. |
Sports Nutritionist | Providing Specialized Nutrition Guidance To Athletes And Individuals Engaged In Sports And Fitness Activities. |
Some top colleges for nutritional sciences research programs include:
Harvard University Tufts University University of California, Berkeley Cornell University University of Michigan University of Texas at Austin Pennsylvania State University University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign |
It is important to research the specific requirements, curriculum, and reputation of each program when considering a nutritional sciences research program.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED
FAQs About Ph.D. Program
Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D.? 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.