A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biology is a research-based degree that focuses on advanced study and research in the biological sciences. This program typically takes four to six years to complete, and students must complete original research and write a dissertation to obtain their degree.
During the course of their studies, students will take advanced coursework in topics such as genetics, ecology, cell biology, molecular biology, and physiology. They will also have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members to conduct independent research projects in their area of interest.
The research component of a PhD in Biology is a major part of the program. Students are typically required to complete a research project under the guidance of a faculty advisor, and they will be expected to present their research findings at scientific conferences and in peer-reviewed publications.
Graduates of a PhD program in Biology can pursue a variety of career paths. Many graduates go on to work as university professors, research scientists, or science policy analysts. Others may work in government or industry, such as in biotechnology or pharmaceutical companies, or in environmental or conservation organizations. The skills and knowledge gained from a PhD in Biology can also be applied to fields such as science communication, science education, and science journalism.
Course | PhD (Biology) |
Full Form | Doctor of Philosophy in Biology |
Course Level | Doctoral programme |
Course Duration | 3 years (minimum) |
Course Structure | Semester/Year wise |
Eligibility | Candidates should have a master’s degree in the Biology or relevant field from a recognized institute with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks. |
Admission Process | Entrance Exams |
Course Fees | Updated Soon |
Starting salaries | INR 3 LPA to 10.2 LPA |
Major Areas | Cell and Molecular Biology, Ecology and Evolution, Computational Biology |
Job Positions | Sr. Research Associate, Research Biologist, Environmental Staff Scientist, Clinical Lab Scientist, Sr. Microbiologist, Product Manager, Natural Science Manager |
Major Recruiting Industries | Educational Institutes, Medical Research Centres, National Conservation Centres |
Recruiters | Paramount Diagnostics & Research Center, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., HCL |
Admission to a PhD program in Biology typically requires a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biology or a related field, although some programs may accept students with degrees in other fields as well. In addition to academic qualifications, applicants are typically required to submit letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and sometimes a writing sample.
Some PhD programs in Biology also require applicants to take an entrance exam, such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Biology GRE subject test. However, not all programs require an entrance exam, so it's important to check with the specific program for their admission requirements.
The duration of a PhD program in Biology is usually 4-6 years. However, the duration may vary depending on the research project and other requirements.
The selection criteria for admission to a PhD in Biology program may vary depending on the university and program. However, typically, the selection criteria include:
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To apply for a PhD in Biology program, follow these general steps:
The application form and process for a PhD in Biology program may vary depending on the university and program. However, typically, the application process includes the following steps:
Research and identify universities and programs that offer a PhD in Biology. |
Check the eligibility criteria and admission requirements for each program. |
Obtain and fill out the application form, which may be available online or in print. |
Prepare your application materials, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and any required entrance exam scores or writing samples. |
Submit your application form and materials online or by mail, along with any required application fees. |
If selected, attend an interview or meet with faculty members to discuss your research interests and potential. |
If accepted, accept the offer and prepare to begin the program. |
The application fee for a PhD in Biology program may vary depending on the university and program. However, typically, the application fee ranges from INR 500-2000 in India and may be higher for international applicants.
Areas of research |
Microbiology Biochemistry Genetics Immunology Cell Biology Molecular Biology |
The salary and job opportunities for graduates of a PhD in Biology program may vary depending on the field and industry. However, typically, graduates can pursue careers as research scientists, university professors, science policy analysts, or science communicators.
In India, the salary for graduates of a PhD in Biology program may range from INR 4-15 lakhs per annum, depending on the job and industry.
Graduates of a PhD in Biology program can pursue a variety of career paths, including:
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Some of the top colleges in India that offer a PhD in Biology program 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.