PhD Biology ,Highlights, Entrance Exam, admission, Eligibility, Duration, Selection Criteria, How to Apply, Application Form, Application Process, fee, Syllabus,Salary and Jobs,career opportunities,Top College in India
A PhD in Biology is an advanced degree program designed to prepare students for a career in research, teaching, or industry. The program typically takes four to six years to complete and requires students to complete a significant research project that contributes new knowledge to the field of biology.
During the program, students will take advanced coursework in areas such as molecular biology, genetics, cell biology, ecology, and evolution, among others. They will also work closely with a faculty advisor to design and conduct original research projects, and present their findings in scientific publications and conferences.
In addition to research and coursework, PhD students in Biology may also be required to fulfill teaching or mentoring requirements, participate in seminars and journal clubs, and complete written and oral exams to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field.
Graduates of a PhD program in Biology are well-prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, biotech or pharmaceutical industries, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. They may work as research scientists, professors, science writers or editors, science policy advisors, or science educators, among other career paths.
PhD Biology Highlights
Here are some highlights of a PhD in Biology program:
Advanced coursework: The program includes advanced coursework in biology and related fields, allowing students to build upon their undergraduate education and gain expertise in specific areas of biology.
Original research: PhD students in Biology are required to conduct original research, leading to the production of a dissertation or thesis. This research is often in collaboration with a faculty advisor, and can contribute to the scientific community's understanding of the field.
Faculty mentorship: PhD students in Biology work closely with a faculty advisor, who provides guidance and support throughout the program. This mentorship helps students develop their research skills and professional networks.
Interdisciplinary opportunities: Many PhD programs in Biology offer opportunities for students to work with faculty and researchers from other disciplines, such as computer science, engineering, or environmental science. This interdisciplinary approach can lead to innovative research and new discoveries.
Teaching and mentoring experience: Many PhD programs require students to serve as teaching or research assistants, providing opportunities to gain valuable experience in mentoring and teaching undergraduate students.
Professional development: PhD programs in Biology often offer seminars, workshops, and training programs to help students develop their professional skills and prepare for careers in academia, industry, or other fields.
Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources: PhD students in Biology typically have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, equipment, and resources, allowing them to conduct cutting-edge research and stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field.
PhD Biology Entrance Exam:
Most universities and institutions require candidates to take a national level entrance exam like the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) or their own entrance exam for admission to PhD in Biology programs. The exam typically assesses the candidate's knowledge in biology, mathematics, and other relevant subjects.
PhD Biology Admission and Eligibility:
To be eligible for a PhD program in Biology, candidates must hold a master's degree in Biology or a related field. Some universities also accept candidates who have a bachelor's degree with a strong academic record and research experience. In addition to academic qualifications, candidates are also required to have a good score in the entrance exam and meet other eligibility criteria set by the university.
PhD Biology Duration:
The duration of a PhD in Biology program typically ranges from 4-6 years, depending on the nature of the research project and the candidate's progress.
PhD Biology Selection Criteria:
Admission to a PhD in Biology program is highly competitive and is based on a combination of factors, including academic qualifications, entrance exam score, research experience, and letters of recommendation. Most universities also conduct an interview to assess the candidate's research aptitude and fit with the program.
PhD Biology How to Apply:
To apply for a PhD in Biology program, candidates must follow the application guidelines set by the university. Typically, candidates are required to submit an online application along with their academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and other supporting documents. Candidates are also required to pay an application fee. After reviewing the applications, the university shortlists candidates for an interview, which may be conducted in person or online. Successful candidates are then offered admission to the program.
PhD Biology Application Form and Process:
To apply for a PhD in Biology program, candidates must visit the official website of the university or institution and fill out the online application form. Candidates are required to provide personal information, academic qualifications, and other relevant details. They must also upload scanned copies of their transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and other supporting documents. After submitting the application, candidates must pay the application fee online.
PhD Biology Application Fee:
The application fee for a PhD in Biology program varies depending on the university or institution. The fee typically ranges from INR 500-2000.
PhD Biology Syllabus:
The syllabus for a PhD in Biology program varies depending on the university or institution. However, some common topics that are covered in the program include molecular biology, genetics, cell biology, ecology, evolution, biochemistry, biotechnology, and microbiology, among others.
PhD Biology Salary and Jobs:
PhD graduates in Biology have several career opportunities in academia, research institutions, biotech or pharmaceutical industries, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. They can work as research scientists, professors, science writers or editors, science policy advisors, or science educators, among other career paths. The salary for a PhD in Biology varies depending on the job profile and the employer. However, the average salary for a research scientist in India is around INR 6-7 lakhs per annum.
PhD Biology Career Opportunities:
PhD graduates in Biology have several career opportunities in various fields such as:
Research Scientist
Biotech Industry
Pharmaceutical Industry
Science Writer or Editor
Science Policy Advisor
Science Educator
Government agencies such as the Department of Biotechnology and the Indian Council of Medical Research.
Top Colleges for PhD in Biology in India:
Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi
University of Delhi, New Delhi
Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, Mumbai
National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), Bangalore
University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune
Bose Institute, Kolkata.
Ph.D. Biology is a doctoral level course. The duration of this course is generally three year and its syllabus is divide in six semesters of six month each. The coursework may involve Problem solving in research, Scientific writing, Physiology, Ecosystems ecology, Biostatistics and Biometrics and Biology research methods. candidates may find ways to use their results to improve the quality of life for humans and other organisms by developing latest products, such as medicines, medical devices or alternative fuels. During the study time candidates learn how to properly management independent research and have gained valuable hands-on laboratory experience. The doctoral program made up a powerful foundation for applicant in the field, so as to train them for higher qualification in the field. It is an interesting and challenging course for an exciting career.
Ph.D. Biology Admission Process:
Admission to the Ph.D. program shall be based on the students marks obtained in the entrance test conducted by the respective department or school of the particular university or institute. Those candidates who have complete GATE/NET/SET/ M.Phil/JRF Examination in the pertinent subject of the apex bodies as CSIR/UGC/ICAR/ICMR/DBT will be exempted from the Entrance Test. While giving the exemption, the Departmental Committee of the institute may consider research work/earlier Ph.D./experience done by the student. If a student already holds a Doctors degree in a relevant subject from a UGC Approved University or Institute, he/she may be exempted from entrance exam and pre Ph.D. coursework. After clearing the both steps the student will be eligible to pay course fee or registration fee. Only the predetermined number of candidates may be admitted to Ph.D. programme.
Ph.D. Biology Career Opportunities:
PH.D. ADMISSION PROCEDURE
DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST
FAQs About Ph.D. Program
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.