A PhD Neuroscience is a research program that lasts between 3 and 5 years. This course familiarizes candidates with various aspects of the nervous system and connects it to the field of neurology.
Throughout the program, students will take advanced courses in neurobiology, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and other related fields. They will also conduct independent research under the guidance of a faculty advisor and participate in seminars and journal clubs to stay current with the latest research in the field.
The research component of the program is an essential part of the Ph.D. in Neurobiology. Students will conduct original research that contributes to the understanding of the nervous system and its functions. This research can range from studying the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the nervous system to investigating the behavioral and cognitive consequences of neurological disorders.
Here are some of the highlights of a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Neurobiology program:
In-depth study of the nervous system: Students will gain a deep understanding of the biological mechanisms that underlie behavior, cognition, and neurological disorders. They will learn about the structure and function of the nervous system at the cellular, molecular, and systems levels.
Research-focused curriculum: The program emphasizes research and hands-on training. Students will conduct original research that contributes to the understanding of the nervous system and its functions.
Faculty mentorship: Students will work closely with a faculty advisor who will guide them through their research and academic coursework. The advisor will provide mentorship, support, and feedback throughout the program.
Interdisciplinary approach: Neurobiology is a multidisciplinary field that draws on biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and other related fields. The program will provide students with a broad understanding of these disciplines and their applications to neurobiology research.
Career opportunities: Graduates of the program can pursue a wide range of careers in academia, industry, and government. They can work in academic research, pharmaceutical research, science writing, and other related fields.
Cutting-edge research facilities: The program is often affiliated with research centers and institutes that provide state-of-the-art facilities for research. Students will have access to the latest technologies and tools for their research projects.
Duration | 3 to 5 years |
Eligibility | Master’s degree in relevant discipline from a recognized university |
Admission Process | Merit/ Entrance-Based + Personal Interview |
Fee Details | Updated Soon |
Job Positions | Neural Engineer, Computational Neuroscientist, Biotechnologist, Database and Databank Manager etc. |
Top Recruiting Areas | Genetic Counselling Centres, Psychology Centres, Pharmaceutical Companies, Forensic Science Labs etc. |
Most Ph.D. programs in Neurobiology require applicants to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Some universities may also require the GRE Subject Test in Biology or a related field. In addition, some programs may require applicants to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) if English is not their first language.
GATE
UGC NET (December Session)
CSIR NET (December Session)
ICAR AICE JRF/SRF
JNUEE
Admission to a Ph.D. program in Neurobiology is highly competitive. Applicants should have a strong background in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. In addition, applicants should have research experience in a related field, as well as strong letters of recommendation and a compelling personal statement.
Applicants must have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a related field, such as biology, neuroscience, or psychology. Some programs may also require a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher. Applicants must also meet the English language proficiency requirements if English is not their first language.
The duration of a Ph.D. program in Neurobiology varies depending on the program and the student's progress. Typically, the program takes 4-6 years to complete.
Admission to a Ph.D. program in Neurobiology is based on a combination of factors, including academic credentials, research experience, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and GRE scores. Some programs may also require an interview with the admissions committee.
To apply to a Ph.D. program in Neurobiology, applicants should consult the program's website for specific application instructions. In general, applicants will need to submit their transcripts, letters of recommendation, GRE scores, and a personal statement describing their research interests and career goals. Some programs may also require a writing sample or a statement of purpose. Applicants should also be prepared to pay an application fee.
The application form and process may vary slightly between universities, but generally, applicants should visit the university's website to complete an online application. They should prepare and upload all necessary documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and GRE scores, as well as pay an application fee. Some universities may also require a personal statement, research proposal, or writing sample.
Merit-Based Admission
Submit your application to the university of your choice.
Good performance in basic examinations, as the results achieved, form the basis of the entire admission process.
The university will publish its cut-off list in due course. Please check whether you are eligible for admission to your desired department.
If you are eligible, please visit the university and submit all required documents.
Entrance Based Admission
Most colleges and universities offer admission to PhD in neuroscience programs on the basis of entrance exams such as JEST, UGC NET, CSIR NET.
The step-by-step procedure for admission-based admissions is as follows:
Step 1: Students must register on the official website.
Step 2: Enter the correct details in the application form.
Step 3: After the exam, the cut-off list will be published on the website. Seats will then be allotted to candidates based on their entrance exam results.
Step 4: Some Colleges also conduct personal interviews and group discussions for admission to this course.
Step 5: If all admission criteria are met, the student is admitted to the course.
The application fee for a Ph.D. program in Neurobiology may vary depending on the university. It can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Some universities may offer fee waivers for qualified applicants.
The syllabus of a Ph.D. program in Neurobiology will vary between universities, but generally, it will cover topics such as:
Cellular and molecular neurobiology |
Neurophysiology |
Neuroanatomy |
Developmental neurobiology |
Systems neuroscience |
Cognitive neuroscience |
Neuropharmacology |
Neural networks and computation |
Graduates of a Ph.D. program in Neurobiology can pursue a wide range of career paths. They can work in academia, pharmaceutical research, biotechnology, government agencies, or science writing. According to PayScale, the average salary for a Ph.D. in Neuroscience is around $88,000 per year, but salaries can vary widely depending on the specific career path and location.
Job Profiles | Description |
Neurophysiologist | The job role of a Neurologist includes curing various ailments related to the nervous system, diagnosing and monitoring the disorders. |
Neural Engineer | The job of a Neural Engineer includes designing systems, artificial devices, and organs to replace body parts, and evaluate its safety and effectiveness. |
Computational Neuroscientist | The job of a Computational Neuroscientist is to study the brain condition by monitoring the images on the computer. |
Neurologist | The job of a Neurologist is to diagnose and treat ailments related to the brain. |
Some of the career opportunities for graduates of a Ph.D. program in Neurobiology include:
Some of the top colleges in India offering a Ph.D. in Neurobiology or related fields include:
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.