PhD Biotechnology: Course Details, Eligibility, Colleges, Admission Process, Career & Salary

PhD Biotechnology is a programme focused on hard core research to prepare a student for a career in academia or research and development. It generally takes 3 to 5 years to complete, depending on the learning ability of the candidate as well as the experimental plan and results.

• In PhD Biotechnology, one will learn about experiment design, data collection, data analysis, writing, publishing, reviewing, and presenting the research.
• It includes both quantitative and qualitative studies on biological samples.
• Biotechnology is a broad term that involves studying genetics, molecular biology, environmental biotechnology, nanobiotechnology, and bioengineering.
• Opting for PhD Biotechnology ensures the expertise in one of the mentioned core areas of research.
• As Biotechnology is an evolving field, PhD Biotechnology paves a path for a reputed and stable career in academia and research across the globe.

PhD Biotechnology: Course Highlights

PhD in Biotechnology is a doctorate degree programme that can be pursued after MSc or M.Phil in Biotechnology or equivalent life science subject. It is a research and development oriented programme that demands sound knowledge of subjects like biochemistry, analytical techniques, bioinformatics, genetics, disease biology, human physiology, etc.

PhD Biotechnology trains the student for processing organic samples, embryological processes, conducting research experiments, and publishing the new developments in the field.

PhD Biotechnology: Advantages

PhD in Biotechnology guarantees a well reputed and high paying job in advanced research areas either in academia or industries. It adds knowledge and expertise in the life science domain, enhancing the intellect of an individual.

• During the PhD, one can get a government fellowship based on various categories.
• The fellowship amount ranges between INR 15,000 to 45,000.

• A person with PhD in Biotechnology can work in research industries, universities, diagnostic labs, pharmaceutical industry, etc.
• They can also turn into entrepreneurs with ground-breaking research and development ideas that benefit society.
• A hard core research in biotechnology polishes the concepts of biological phenomena and fundamentals of life.
• Along with practical skills, It equips the learner with problem-solving skills, logical thinking, and critical analysis.
• Altogether brings a sense of satisfaction, intellect, respect, and success in the career.

PhD Biotechnology Eligibility

To enroll in PhD Biotechnology, one has to qualify the entrance exam and interview conducted by UGC, CSIR, State government, or Universities.

1. A Master degree in Science with Biotechnology/Biochemistry/Microbiology or equivalent degree (M.Tech Biotechnology or other life science subjects).
2. Minimum 55% or second class is required to apply for the entrance exam of PhD Biotechnology.
3. According to the latest National Education Policy, candidates with 10+2+4 (bachelor 4 years) can directly apply for the PhD entrance test.

PhD Biotechnology Entrance Exam

There are various entrance exams for enrolling in PhD Biotechnology. These exams are conducted either by state government, central government or private universities.

If candidates have qualified one of the government entrance exams for PhD, they are eligible for admission in any private and government university. However, students with no qualified entrance exam are required to qualify the university-level entrance test of the specific university.

Some popular entrance exam for PhD Biotechnology are mentioned below

• UGC NET
• CSIR-UGC NET
• GATE
• SET
• GPAT
• JAM

UGC and CSIR NET are conducted twice a year in the months of June and December. They are national level tests whereas SET is a state-level exam with the same exam pattern and syllabus.

PhD Biotechnology Admission Process

Government universities and research labs give admission based on the cut-off scores of competitive exams and subsequent interview performance.

Private universities consider the MSc merit, entrance test conducted by the university, potential of the research proposal, available facility and performance in interview.

• NET/SET/GATE qualified students are exempted from the entrance test in private universities.
• They have to appear for a personal interview and GD (if applicable).
• Private universities may consider the work experience in the field of research proposed during the interview.

A general admission process for PhD Biotechnology is as follows.

1. Release of Notification: Universities release the admission notification and seats.
2. Application: Fill out the application form with SOP and other required information.
3. Appear in exam/Interview: Candidates have to undertake the exam and those with NET/SET/GATE qualification have to appear in interview.
4. Research Proposal and GD: Shortlisted candidates have to propose their ideas in specific research areas and discuss the potential of that research.
5. Selection and Allotment of Supervisors: Selected candidates will be allotted with research guide/ supervisor.

PhD Biotechnology Best Colleges in India

There are various research labs, universities, and colleges that offer PhD Biotechnology. Some of the well known institutes are tabulated below.

The course fee, entrance exam, and fellowship consideration varies among the organizing bodies of the institutes. 

Candidates are advised to visit the institute personally to see their research approach, selection procedure, vacancies, availability of supervisors, fee structure, and research facilities.

PhD Biotechnology Syllabus

PhD in Biotechnology is a research based programme that involves coursework, practical training, seminars, conferences, and presentations. However, there is no fixed syllabus for this degree and coursework is based on individuals’s research requirements.

• Also, the coursework duration, subjects, and teaching mode differs among the institutes.
• One can also take the certification courses provided by NPTEL or coursera.
• It is also mandatory to present a yearly report to the advisory committee of the university.
• Presenting and publishing research outputs is also compulsory for most universities.

The basic subjects as per the UGC recommendations are listed below.

• Research Methodology
• Analytical Techniques
• Research and Publication Ethics
• Academic Writing
• Good Laboratory Practices

Flow of the PhD course goes like Coursework > Practical training > Experimentation > Data analysis > Writing and publishing > Thesis submission and Viva-Voce.

PhD Biotechnology Career Prospects & Salary

PhD in Biotechnology offers a number of opportunities in the field of medical research, academics, pharmaceutical research, animal research, etc.

• One can join a research center as Junior Research Fellow (JRF), Senior Research Fellow (SRF), Scientist, or Research Associate in various research centers and industries.
• People also work on contractual basis with government funded projects.
• Those who wish to work in academics can join as assistant professor and get promoted to the associated professor or professor by advancing their research experience.

PhD Biotechnology Job profile and Salary in India

PhD Biotechnology holders can expect an average salary of 5 to 15 LPA in India. The earning varies depending on the industry type, position, location, expertise and knowledge one has.

Frequently Asked Questions