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Biology is a 5-6 year Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program aimed at the development of research and serious study in the biological sciences. The students undertake their own research in their respective areas of interest together with their professors in the hope of coming with new findings that would make significant contribution to the knowledge base. Extra curricular activities involve taking higher level classes in areas such as cell biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, microbiology, molecular biology, and many others. All students must complete qualifying examinations that prove their subject-matter proficiency before engaging in self-directed dissertation work. It is important to note that majority of the biology Ph.D. programs will expect completion of a master’s thesis before graduation.
Typically, the tests that a candidate can use to enter an institute offering the Ph.D. in biology include the GRE General Test and GRE Biology Subject Test. Programs also consider the academic performance, the research experience, the letters of recommendation, and the personal statement. Some of the key milestones include; GRE exams that are normally taken in July August, application to universities is done between December January, admission decisions are usually made in March April, and enrollments commence in August September of the academic year. Many programs accept students only in the first year of the fall semester. Competitive applicants’ seek information about potential advisors and contacts laboratories before applying to enhance admittance odds.
Feature
Description
Full Form
Doctor of Philosophy (Biology)
Duration
3-6 years (minimum 3 years coursework + research)
Course Level
Doctoral Level
Eligibility
Master's degree in Biology or related field with minimum marks (usually 55%)
Top Colleges
Indian Institute of Science (IISc), National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), Indian Institute of Technology (IITs) with Biology departments, University of Delhi (DU), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)
Entrance Exam
University/Institute specific entrance exams (CSIR-NET, GATE, JNU Entrances etc.)
1. Minimum 55% Marks in Master’s Degree in Biology or any other relevant subjects from a recognized University.
2. Passing of centralized tests like CSIR, NET, GATE, UGC etc. in some cases.
3. Experience may be preferred if the individual has a good academic record and has done some research.
4. Letters of recommendation for the purpose of stressing research interest.
5. Some situations when universities conduct their own entrance exams.
6. It may also be possible to use interview performance and research proposal in the evaluation of the performance.
College/University
Location
Average CTC (LPA)
Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
Bangalore
18-25
National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS)
Bangalore
15-20
Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) with Biology Departments (IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay etc.)
Delhi, Mumbai etc.
12-18
University of Delhi (DU)
Delhi
8-12
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)
Delhi
7-11
Subject
Important Topics
Advanced Biology
- Cell Biology (in-depth) - Molecular Biology (advanced techniques) - Genetics (population, evolutionary) - Biochemistry (metabolism, regulation) - (May include specific topics relevant to your specialization)
Research Methodology
- Scientific Writing & Communication - Research Design & Statistical Analysis - Grant Proposal Writing - Ethical Considerations in Research
Elective Courses
- Depending on your specialization, you can choose courses in areas like: - Plant Biology - Microbiology - Ecology & Evolution - Bioinformatics - Neuroscience - Developmental Biology
Seminar Presentations
- Presenting your research progress to faculty and peers
Doctoral Research
- Conducting original research under the guidance of a supervisor - Contributing to the field through publications and presentations
Job Role
Average Salary (LPA)
Description
Postdoctoral Researcher
₹5-10
Conducts advanced research in a university lab or research institution, often under the supervision of a senior scientist. May also participate in writing research papers and grant proposals.
Research Scientist (Government/Industry)
₹8-15
Conducts research and development in areas like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, agriculture, or environmental science. May lead or participate in research teams, analyze data, and write scientific reports.
College/University Professor
₹8-20+ (Depends on experience and institution)
Teaches undergraduate and/or graduate biology courses, conducts research, mentors students, and publishes in scientific journals. Salary can increase with experience and seniority.
Science Writer/Editor
₹5-10
Creates scientific content for publications, websites, or educational materials. Requires strong scientific knowledge and excellent communication skills.
Science Consultant
Variable
Provides scientific expertise to government agencies, NGOs, or private companies. Requires specialization in a particular field and strong communication and problem-solving skills.
