PhD in Biology is a minimum three-year doctorate level programme. The course deals with the study of microorganisms and their surroundings. It is the highest level of educational degree that one can achieve in Biology. To be able to pursue the programme, one needs to have a master’s degree in the same field of study, from a recognized university. A minimum aggregate score of at least 50% is needed to apply for PhD in Biology. Admissions are held through entrance examinations and a round of personal interview. Each institute holds its own entrance examination that tests the candidates research methodology and basics of research along with general knowledge. PhD candidates in Biology, Ecology and Evolution work closely with faculty advisors to design and conduct independent research projects. These projects typically involve fieldwork, laboratory experiments, or data analysis. PhD candidates will be expected to develop their research questions, design their study, collect and analyze data, and communicate their findings through presentations and publications.
Course | Ph.D. (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 |
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 |
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A PhD program in Biology, Ecology, and Evolution typically takes 4-6 years to complete, depending on the program and research requirements.
The selection criteria for a PhD program in Biology, Ecology, and Evolution usually include academic performance, research experience, letters of recommendation, and the statement of purpose. |
In addition, some programs may consider other factors, such as GRE scores, interviews, and writing samples. |
1 | Research programs and universities that offer a PhD in Biology, Ecology, and Evolution. |
2 | Check the eligibility criteria and application requirements for each program. |
3 | Take the necessary tests, such as the GRE and TOEFL. |
4 | Collect transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other application materials. |
5 | Write a statement of purpose outlining research interests and goals. |
6 | Submit the application through the program's online portal or mail it to the university's admissions office. |
7 | Pay the application fee and wait for the admission decision. |
The application form and process for a PhD in Biology, Ecology, and Evolution varies depending on the university or program. |
Typically, applicants can find the application form and instructions on the program's website. |
Applicants may need to provide personal and academic information, including transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation. |
Some programs may also require a statement of purpose, a CV or resume, and a writing sample. |
Once the application is complete, applicants may submit it online or by mail, along with an application fee. |
The application fee for a PhD in Biology, Ecology, and Evolution varies depending on the university or program. The fee may range from Updated Soon, and may be waived for some applicants who demonstrate financial need or academic merit.
Areas of research |
Microbiology |
Biochemistry |
Genetics |
Immunology |
Cell Biology |
Molecular Biology |
Job Role | Job Description |
Microbiologists | A microbiologist studies bacteria, algae and fungi to understand how they cause diseases and how the environment is affected. |
Natural Science Manager | A natural science manager works in the role of a supervisor who overlooks the work of biologists, scientists, chemists and physicists etc. regarding research and development, testing etc. |
Research Biologist | Research biologists study all the natural elements in our environment in order to understand them better. Often they work in one specific specialization. |
Professor | Professors gain employment in the educational sector and help educate the next generation of biologists. |
A PhD in Biology, Ecology, and Evolution opens up many career opportunities in research, academia, and industry. Graduates may work as university professors, research scientists, consultants, or government officials, among other careers. They may also work for conservation organizations, wildlife agencies, or environmental consulting firms, applying their knowledge of ecology and evolution to solve real-world problems.
Some of the top colleges for a PhD in Biology, Ecology, and Evolution include:
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.