PhD in Biostatistics develops deep expertise in the theory and practice of biostatistics and bioinformatics. Candidates learn to work with big data and use powerful statistical tools to drive discovery using complex datasets. Candidates also get to conduct original research in collaboration with laboratory, clinical, and biomedical scientists from around the globe to identify and solve problems that threaten the lives and health of people everywhere. A PhD in Biostatistics program typically requires students to complete coursework in statistical theory, probability theory, linear models, and experimental design, as well as coursework in specialized areas such as survival analysis, longitudinal data analysis, and Bayesian methods. In addition to coursework, PhD students in biostatistics typically engage in research activities, including independent research projects, collaborative research with faculty, and participation in research seminars. The goal of a PhD in Biostatistics program is to train students to become independent researchers capable of designing and conducting statistical analyses of health-related data. Graduates of PhD programs in biostatistics may find employment in academia, government, or industry, working as researchers, statisticians, or consultants. They may also pursue careers in areas such as public health, medical research, or clinical trials.
Duration | 3 - 5 years |
Eligibility | Graduate from a recognized university in an equivalent domain |
Admission process | Entrance exam based OR merit based |
Top Recruiting Companies | Novartis, Sandoz, CIBA, Cadilla |
Top recruiting area | Medicine, Pharma, genetics, genomics, neuroscience |
Job Positions | Data Analyst, Research Analyst, Assistant Professor, Biostatistician, Data Interpreter, Lecturer, Research Scholar, Content Developer, Teaching Associates, Asst. Professor & Lecturer, etc. |
Postgraduate in the equivalent discipline. |
A minimum aggregate score of 50% in post-graduation. |
Candidates awaiting their post-graduation examinations’ results are also eligible to apply on a provisional basis |
Exam Name |
UGC NET (July Session) |
CSIR UGC NET (June Session) |
ICAR AICE JRF/SRF |
1 | After clearing the entrance exam, candidates need to go through an interview process. |
2 | Shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview, and their academic records will also be considered. |
3 | Based on the interview and academic records, candidates will be selected for the PhD program. |
The duration of a PhD program in Biostatistics is generally 3-5 years.
Candidates will be selected based on their performance in the entrance exam and interview.
Academic records of the candidate will also be considered.
Candidates need to fill the application form available on the website of the respective institute. |
Candidates need to attach their academic records and other relevant documents along with the application form. |
Candidates need to pay the application fee online or through a demand draft. |
The application fee may vary from institute to institute.
Generally, the application fee ranges from Rs. 500 to Rs. 2000.
Subjects of Study |
Large Sample Theory |
Advanced Biostatistical Methods I |
Advanced Biostatistical Methods II |
Biostatistical Computing |
Analysis of Categorical Data |
Analysis of Multivariate Data |
Genetic Data Analysis |
Clinical Trials Methods |
Advanced Clinical Trials Methods |
Applied Survival Analysis |
Nonparametric Statistics |
Job Position | Job Description |
Mathematicians and Statisticians | Mathematicians and statisticians work to formulate new rules within the field of mathematics. They develop theories and techniques that are then used to solve problems in areas such as science, business, healthcare, and engineering. The role involves collecting data by the use of opinion polls, surveys, or experiments |
Survey Researchers | Survey researchers create surveys which help in answering important questions for business and ultimately make informed decisions. They focus their survey in one area for collecting data from the same groups. After collecting this data, they then use statistical techniques and software to analyze and visualize the data |
Postsecondary Mathematical Science Teachers | Postsecondary mathematical science teachers teach students statistics, mathematical concepts, actuarial science, and the application of standard mathematical techniques in the area of problem-solving. |
Biostatisticians | Biostatisticians conduct research and experiments to find how a person's traits affects the helpfulness of a particular treatment or medication. They also help to regulate the best way to arrange resources during the treatment of a population. Their role also includes to treat the individuals without the spread of diseases. |
Senior Research Scientists (Biotechnology) | Senior research scientists (biotechnology) create new products by using their expertise in the field of biology, chemistry, or mathematics. They create products which aid in the preservation of food, crop growth, or advance food safety. |
Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata
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.