A PhD in Zoology is an advanced research degree that focuses on the study of animals and their behavior, physiology, ecology, evolution, and conservation. As a doctoral student in Zoology, you will develop expertise in your area of interest and make a significant contribution to the field of Zoology by conducting original research.
The typical duration of a PhD in Zoology is around 4-6 years, depending on the program and the specific research project. During this time, you will work closely with your advisor and other faculty members to develop and carry out your research project, analyze your data, and write up your findings for publication.
To be admitted to a PhD program in Zoology, you typically need to have a bachelor's or master's degree in Zoology or a related field, along with strong academic credentials, relevant research experience, and a clear research proposal. Many programs also require you to take the GRE exam and submit letters of recommendation.
After completing your PhD in Zoology, you will be qualified to pursue a career in academia, research, conservation, or other fields related to animal science. Possible career options include becoming a university professor, a research scientist at a government agency or nonprofit organization, or a conservation biologist working to protect endangered species and their habitats.
Course Level | Doctorate |
Duration of the Course | 3 Years |
Examination Type | Semester System |
Eligibility Criteria | Master in relevant Subject with 55 % marks |
Admission Process | Based on the shortlisted candidates’ performance in the round of interviews. |
Top Recruiting Companies | Wildlife Sanctuaries, National Parks, Botanical Gardens, Zoos, Research Laboratories, Aquariums, Animal Clinics, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Museums, Pharmaceutical Companies, Veterinary Hospitals, etc. |
Job Positions | Animal Caretaker, Conservationist, Animal Rehabilitator, Documentary Maker, Animal & Wildlife Educator, Forensic Expert, Animal Trainer, Lab Technician, Zoo Curator, Animal Breeder, Researcher, Animal, Behaviorist, Wildlife Biologist, Veterinarian, Zoo Keeper, and such. |
Here are some of the key highlights of a PhD in Zoology program:
Research Focus: A PhD in Zoology is a research-focused degree that emphasizes independent research, experimentation, and data analysis. As a doctoral student, you will have the opportunity to pursue your research interests and develop expertise in a particular area of Zoology.
Interdisciplinary Approach: Zoology is an interdisciplinary field that involves the integration of biology, ecology, physiology, genetics, and other disciplines. A PhD program in Zoology may require coursework in these areas and encourage collaboration with faculty members and researchers from other fields.
Hands-on Learning: A PhD in Zoology program provides ample opportunities for hands-on learning, including fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and data collection. You may also have the chance to work with live animals, either in the lab or in the field.
Professional Development: In addition to research training, a PhD program in Zoology may offer professional development opportunities, such as teaching assistantships, grant writing workshops, and presentation opportunities at academic conferences.
Specialization: Zoology is a broad field, and a PhD program may offer opportunities for specialization in areas such as animal behavior, ecology, evolution, genetics, and conservation biology.
Networking: A PhD program in Zoology provides opportunities to network with other researchers, both within the program and at academic conferences and workshops. This can help you build professional relationships that may be valuable throughout your career.
Career Opportunities: A PhD in Zoology can lead to a range of career opportunities, including academic positions, research positions in government or nonprofit organizations, and conservation biology roles. Zoology is a growing field with many opportunities for research and innovation.
Some universities require you to take an entrance exam as part of the admission process. The exam may cover topics such as biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) may also be required by some universities.
Admission to a PhD in Zoology is competitive, and the admission requirements can vary by institution. Generally, applicants must hold a master's degree in Zoology or a related field, have a high GPA, and submit a research proposal. Other requirements may include letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and proof of English proficiency.
The candidate needs to be aware of the requirements of the institute that he/she is aiming for. Fill out the application form of the college and then do the following steps.
Candidates are shortlisted based on both academic record and performance in a relevant nationwide screening test, such as:
To be eligible for admission to a PhD program in Zoology, you typically need to have a bachelor's or master's degree in Zoology or a related field, along with strong academic credentials, relevant research experience, and a clear research proposal.
Postgraduate studies in a relevant field completed at a recognized institution/university.
Total score of at least 55% (50% for SC/ST/PH candidates) or equivalent performance at the post-graduation level.
At least 5 years of educational/industrial/management/professional experience at senior level.
A PhD program in Zoology typically takes 4-6 years to complete, depending on the specific research project and program requirements.
Selection criteria for admission to a PhD program in Zoology typically include academic credentials, research experience, the quality of the research proposal, letters of recommendation, and other factors such as personal characteristics, motivation, and potential for success in graduate studies.
To apply for a PhD program in Zoology, you will typically need to submit an online application along with supporting documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a research proposal. Some universities may also require you to take an entrance exam or the GRE. The application process may vary by institution, so be sure to check the specific requirements and deadlines for the programs you are interested in.
PhD Doctor of Philosophy in Zoology is a research-focused degree that prepares students for careers in academia, research, or industry. Here's the information you need to know about the application process, fees, syllabus, salary, jobs, career opportunities, and top colleges for pursuing a PhD in Zoology.
To apply for a PhD in Zoology, you need to have a master's degree in Zoology or a related field with a minimum of 55% to 60% aggregate marks. The application process varies from college to college, but generally, you need to fill out an online application form, attach the required documents (transcripts, certificates, statement of purpose, etc.), and pay the application fee. You will also need to qualify for an entrance exam, followed by an interview with the selection committee.
The fee for a PhD in Zoology varies depending on the college or university. Typically, the fee ranges from INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000 per annum.
The syllabus for a PhD in Zoology includes both coursework and research. The coursework includes subjects such as Animal Physiology, Animal Behavior, Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, and Molecular Biology. The research part involves conducting independent research under the guidance of a supervisor and submitting a thesis at the end of the program.
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After completing a PhD in Zoology, you can pursue a career in academia, research, or industry. The salary you can expect depends on the job profile and your experience. In academia, as a postdoctoral researcher, you can expect to earn around INR 50,000 to INR 70,000 per month. If you get a faculty position, the salary can range from INR 70,000 to INR 1,50,000 per month. In industry, as a research scientist, you can earn around INR 60,000 to INR 1,00,000 per month. Some of the job profiles you can opt for include:
Job Role | Description |
Animal Caretaker | An Animal Caretaker is responsible for catering to the daily requirements of animals. They feed, prep, bathe, and conduct daily exercises for pets and other wild animals. They work in an assortment of settings, including pet hotels, zoos, stables, pet stores, veterinary centers, and aquariums. |
Conservationist | A Conservationist works with landowners and governments to ensure the conservation of natural assets such as soil and water. They help discover approaches for resource use without exploiting nature and wildlife. They are often called Soil and Water Conservationists or Preservation/Conservation Researchers |
Forensic Expert | Forensic Science Specialists inspect and assess the physical aspects, and compositions of wild animals’ anatomies, and conduct physical examinations. They might be required to work with blood and other organic liquids, hair, bodily discharge, drugs, strands, paint, and glass. |
Wildlife Biologist | Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists observe and examine wild animals and other forms of wildlife, and analyze how they associate with their biological communities. They observe the physical nature of animals, animal practices, and the effects people have on wildlife and their natural habitats. |
Zoo Keeper | Zookeepers are in charge of maintaining the well-being of zoo animals. Such managers routinely execute daily tasks for animals, such as bathing, feeding, and taking care of their regular physical exercise. |
A PhD in Zoology opens up various career opportunities in academia, research, and industry. Some of the career paths you can choose include:
Some of the top colleges for pursuing a PhD in Zoology in India include:
DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST
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.