Doctorate in Biology

About Course

Ph.D. (Biology) Courses, Eligibility, Admissions, Syllabus, Career Options, Frequently asked Questions.

Overview and About the Course:

A Ph.D. in biology is a degree that emphasises carrying out research and gaining professional abilities in the biology industry. The emphasis of the programme is on graduate research grants, oral and written presentations at conferences, and the publishing of research findings in reputable publications. More courses in a particular subject, like ecology or marine biology, are often offered as part of the PhD degree. Biochemistry, cell, and molecular biology, as well as genetics, are further fields of study.

PhD programmes in the disciplines of population and community ecology, ecological genomics, evolutionary genetics, and genomics. Biology Ph.D. programmes are demanding, participatory, and emphasise cutting-edge basic research. These degrees provide emphases in molecular genetics, evolutionary biology, and systems biology along with training in organismal behaviour and sociality. Students who pursue a doctorate in biological sciences are prepared to work as classroom teachers, experts, and biologists.

A formal dissertation and original research project must be finished in order to graduate from a biology Ph.D. programme. Students who complete it are well-prepared for scholarly and research professions. We want scientists with excellent research and problem-solving abilities to tackle the complex issues facing the globe today.

•    Individuals interested in learning more about the numerous microorganisms that surround us choose PhD biology. Learning about life early on is helpful. Below is a description of the biology PhD programme in more depth.

•    Having a master's degree in the same specialty area is a requirement for admission. For admission, a minimum overall score of 50% from a reputable university is required.

•    That doctoral level programme in biology and other relevant fields of study lasts three to five years.

•    During the programme, a PhD candidate in biology may study topics such as cell and molecular biology, ecology, evolution, computational biology, etc.

•    Personal interviews and entrance exams are used for admission. Candidates must write a research proposal outlining their intended course of study.

•    As part of the curriculum, candidates learn about report writing, research techniques, data clean up and presentation, thesis preparation, etc.

Entrance exams are used to determine admissions, along with a round of in-person interviews. Each school offers a unique entrance exam to assess applicants' general knowledge, research technique, and research fundamentals.

A variety of universities in India provide doctoral-level biology programmes. universities include the University of Hyderabad, Indian Institute of Science, and Jawaharlal Nehru University. The range of course fees is from INR 2,000 to INR 5 Lakhs on average. The program's goal is to learn new knowledge about the topic of study that has been selected, and at the end of the programme, to present a thesis.

A candidate may study genomics, microbiology, biology, and other subjects.
After graduating, one has the option of applying for admission to programmes for higher education or looking for work. The top job titles most PhD biology graduates are hired for include professor, product manager, manager of natural sciences, microbiologist, etc. The typical placement package ranges from 3 lakhs to 8 lakhs per annum. 

Course, Highlight of Ph.D. in Biology:

Why to do Ph.D. in Biology:

•    It takes a lot of work from a candidate to complete a doctoral level degree in any field. The reasons for pursuing the degree will vary depending on each person's objectives. The main arguments in favour of pursuing it are listed below.

•    The salary range for doctoral candidates is high. The candidate's skill set and job experience are taken into consideration when determining the ultimate pay rate. Additionally, pay will vary by industry. The salary will be higher if one is fortunate enough to land a position with a multinational corporation.

•    With their efforts, biologists make significant contributions to mankind. To comprehend how viruses and bacteria propagate and how to manage them, scientists examine them in both humans and animals. Their job is important for preserving the environment.

•    A PhD in biology can lead to a wide range of job opportunities. There are several positions available, including those of Research Associate, Research Biologist, Environmental Staff Scientist, Clinical Lab Scientist, Senior Microbiologist, Product Manager, and Natural Science Manager. Depending on the selected field of specialty, there are many employment options.

•    One might choose to work as a teacher or professor to college-level students among the wide range of employment alternatives accessible. There is no more important task than teaching the next generation of biologists who will advance the science more.

Eligibility Criteria Required for the course, Ph.D. in Biology:

A applicant must meet specific eligibility requirements in order to be accepted into the PhD Biology programme. For the majority of colleges, the broad standards listed below can be used.

•    It was necessary to score a minimum of 50% overall.

•    Candidates must hold a biology master's degree from an accredited institution or university.

•    Scores from entrance exams like the BITS Pilani, or UGC Net are necessary.

•    Candidates must have a research proposal prepared that details the goal, methodology, and other aspects of the study. This suggestion will be utilised in a round of individual interviews.

Skills for the course, Ph.D. in Biology:

PhD holders in the Biology need a combination of hard talents and soft skills to succeed in their jobs. It's possible that these skills can't always be taught within the constraints of the school system. Practice is the only way to hone these abilities. Students should thus seize any chance to extend their perspectives and acquire new knowledge. Only a handful of these skills include:

•    Observation Techniques

•    Progress Tracking

•    Thinking Techniques

•    Skills in Communication

•    Skills for Dealing Pressure

•    Instructing Human Development 

•    Guide Wisely 

•    Hard Working 

Admission Process for the course, Ph.D. in Biology:

The majority of universities and institutions that offer PhD Biology programmes admit students depending on how well they did on their Master's degree exams. However, some universities do provide admission exams to evaluate a candidate's aptitude and skill sets.
    
•    First of all, candidate have to apply in the institute for the course he wanted to do. 

•    A student must perform well in the JAM, and UGC-NET etc. admission exams held by the relevant Universities in order to pursue a Ph.D. in Biology. Additionally, students must do well in the round of personal interviews.

•    After the examination result candidate have to go through to the interview round or in a group discussion.

•    After the interview process the next step in counselling or enrolment in the college.

•    For enrolment student have submit required documents as per the college guidelines or requirements. 

Admission Based on Entrance Exam for Ph.D. in Biology:

The following are the entrance-based admission requirements for a PhD in Biology:

•    To successfully register, candidates must submit an application through the entrance examination organization's official website.

•    The authorities will announce the examination date, and applicants must appear for the test.

•    The applicants need to achieve a good grade or CGPA in the relevant exams in order to be accepted to the PhD in Biology programme.

•    The authorities will present a merit list of the chosen applicants and assign the pupils the necessary college seats.

•    In order to be admitted, the candidates must pass additional rounds of personal interviews.

Tips to get Admission in the college for the course, Ph.D. in Biology:

Obtaining entrance to a reputable college is crucial for a higher education research programme like a PhD in Biology. Here are a few key ideas to remember when you seek admission to a reputable university.

•    If you are fervently interested in applying for a PhD in Biology, you must achieve a respectable grade in your Post Graduate level of study.

•    If you are getting ready to take an entrance exam, you must also get a high CGPA on that exam to be admitted to a reputable PhD in Biology College.

•    Please investigate the prospective college before making any plans to attend any college or institution.

•    Ensure that university offers the ideal curriculum and adequate facilities to train you to master a PhD in Biology.

Entrance exams for the course, Ph.D. in Biology:

When applying for admission, Indian colleges accept scores from both national and state level exams. The exam scores that are most frequently approved are listed below.

UGC-NET:

Some of the best universities in the country accept the UGC NET, or University Grants Commission National Entrance Test, for admission to PhD programmes.

JAM:

Admission to PhD programmes is granted based on the Joint Admission Test for M.Sc. The IITs are in charge of conducting this national test. Six topic exams in all are given online during a three-hour period. Among other universities, the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore accepts JAM scores.

JEST:

IISc, Bangalore also accepts JEST, or the Joint Entrance Screening Test, for admission to PhD programmes. Tata Institute of Fundamental Research administers the test in an offline style. 

Tips to prepare the entrance exam for the course, Ph.D. in Biology:

The following information can aid applicants in getting ready for the entrance exam.

•    First of all, Create a schedule for your study time. You will be able to concentrate on each subject and give each topic equal time.

•    Go through the exam's syllabus in detail. Instead of studying a completely unrelated subject, it will assist you in focusing on key themes.

•    Examine the question papers from the prior year to have a better grasp of the admission tests. There are several books for entrance exams that include previous year's test questions and the solutions.

•    It's crucial to comprehend the fundamentals of the subjects rather than memorising the answers. You may use it to help you answer challenging queries.

•    Every admission test consists of MCQs with a single right response. Additionally, there is a failing grade.

•    It's crucial to only answer questions you are certain of. Considering that there is a negative marking, speculation is to be avoided.

Top Colleges for the course, Ph.D. in Biology:

Syllabus to study for the course, Ph.D. in Biology:

A PhD biology programme is divided between coursework and research projects. The majority of the course assignments are dedicated to research and thesis preparation. The selected specialisation will determine the PhD biology course curriculum.

Genetics:

The study of genes, gene variation, and heredity in living things is known as generics. Researchers look for characteristics that are handed on from parents to offspring.

Immunology:

The field of science known as immunology focuses on the immune systems of living things. This section focuses on understanding, diagnosing, treating, and discovering treatments for immunological illnesses.

Chemical Biology:

This area of science investigates the mechanisms behind the presence or absence of particular genetic characteristics in living things. To learn more about all living things, scientists do molecular research.

Microbiology:

This entails researching tiny organisms, such as viruses, bacteria, fungus, etc., in order to understand how they cause diseases and identify treatments for them.

Biochemistry:

This branch of science investigates the role of chemistry in cellular biological processes. Microscopically, scientists learn about the chemistry of living things.

Biology of Cells:

The study of cells in people, animals, plants, etc. is called cell biology. Biologists who research cells contribute to the creation of vaccinations, genetically altered plants and animals, and other things.

Job Prospects and Career after doing the course, Ph.D. in Biology:

Both government agencies and private laboratories employ PhD biology applicants. Educational institutions, medical research facilities, zoos and national parks, national conservation centres, etc. are among the sectors where one can look into employment.

Candidates' beginning pay scales are on the upper end. The candidate's potential, talents, employment experience, etc. will all play a role in the ultimate salary. The first pay range is between INR 30,000 to 4,00,000 per month. Candidates are hired for roles such as microbiologist, environmental lab scientist, manager of natural sciences, professor, research associate, etc.

Job Profiles after the course, Ph.D. in Biology:

Manager of Natural Sciences:

A biological science manager performs the duties of a supervisor by keeping an eye on the activities of biologists, scientists, chemists, and physicists, among others, in the areas of testing, research, and development.

Researcher in biology:

To get a deeper understanding of all the natural components of our environment, research biologists examine them. They frequently operate in a single area of expertise.

Senior lecturer:

Researchers work in the field of education and support the training of future biologists.

Microbiologists:

A microbiologist examines microorganisms, seaweed, and fungus to learn how they influence the environment and how they create disease.

Benefits after doing the course, Ph.D. in Biology:

•    A PhD programme in biology with a heavy emphasis on teaching involves a lot of research. Graduates will be prepared for professions in science and education. 
•    In addition to other amenities, a Ph.D. in Biology programme offers a competitive stipend and health insurance. In order to prepare students for employment in academia and biotechnology, the curriculum also offers substantial training in pedagogy, outreach, and communication. 

•    To get their PhD degrees, students must also finish two semesters of teaching. A student who completes the programme is guaranteed full tuition and health insurance for the whole six-year duration in addition to receiving a Ph.D. in biology. 

•    Graduates of the programme receive intensive training in communication, outreach, and education, which equips them for employment in academia and biotechnology.

Scope after doing the course, Ph.D. in Biology:

•    The greatest degree of schooling is a Ph.D. in biology. Typically, the programme lasts three to five years. Candidates must also produce an original dissertation and a research proposal. For people who are interested in learning about the fundamental sciences of life, this Ph.D. is perfect. This degree field has a great future in terms of employment. You can pursue a job in biotechnology after finishing the course.

•    In India, a PhD is the highest degree that may be obtained. Most applicants are either already employed when they complete their degrees or are recruited to start working as soon as they do. With a PhD, you have a good possibility of getting employment, and most people won't have any trouble doing so. However, if one wishes to look into alternate study alternatives, the following can be investigated.

•    A applicant can start applying for graduate programmes once they have finished their graduate-level curriculum and have a dissertation. The majority of colleges demand that candidates teach two semesters of biology, usually as a teaching fellow. Biology PhD candidates may expect to make a good income.

•    Ph.D. candidates are also promised five years of funding from their university in addition to graduate-level degrees. These factors make biology Ph.D. programmes among the finest choices for graduate students.

Frequently asked Questions:

Question. What are the program's requirements for eligibility?

Answer. A applicant must meet specific eligibility requirements in order to be accepted into the PhD Biology programme. For the majority of colleges, the broad standards listed below can be used.

•    It was necessary to score a minimum of 50% overall.

•    Candidates must hold a biology master's degree from an accredited institution or university.

Question. What are the approved entry exams?

Answer. UGC NET, JAM, JEST and other entry examinations are accepted.

Question. What is the procedure for programme admission?

Answer. Applicants are asked to send in their research projects for a personal interview after receiving their admission exam results.

Question. What types of jobs are available for those with a PhD in biology?

Answer. Medicinal Chemist, Researcher Biologist, Environmental Professional Scientist, Clinical Lab Scientist, etc. are a few of the usual job types that one is employed into.

Question. What is the average salary after completing the course?

Answer. After completing the course, Ph.D. in Biology candidate can get 3 lakhs to 8 lakhs per annum.