Program Overview

Biology - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The PhD in Biology program is designed for individuals with a keen interest in research and teaching. This program enables students to conduct research that will empower humanity in transcending global challenges. Students will carry out cutting-edge research while also taking courses from exceptional faculty members who are global leaders in their fields.

Research Fields

• Biochemistry
• Computational Biology
• Ecology and Evolution
• Microbiology
• Physiology and Cell Biology

Program Overview

Department/School: Biology Faculty: Faculty of Science Admit term(s): Fall (September - December), Winter (January - April), Spring (May - August) Delivery mode: On-campus Program type: Doctoral, Research Length of program: 48 months (full-time) Registration option(s): Full-time, Part-time Study option(s): Thesis

Application Deadlines

• February 1 (for admission in September)
• July 1 (for admission in January of the following year)
• October 1 (for admission in May of the following year)

Supervisors

Students are strongly advised to establish contact with potential supervisors before applying to the program. It is a good strategy to identify whether the potential supervisors that students would like to undertake research with have available positions and funding.

Admission Requirements

• A 75% overall standing, or equivalent in a Master of Science (MSc) degree in a relevant field.
• There is also an option of transferring from the master's program to the doctoral program. This is not a routine option, but can be approved on a case-by-case basis for suitably qualified individuals.

Degree Requirements

• Review the degree requirements in the Graduate Studies Academic Calendar, including the courses that you can anticipate taking as part of completing the degree.
• Check out recent submissions from the Department of Biology graduate students to see the types of research being conducted.

Application Materials

• Resume
• Statement of interest: A statement of maximum 500 words explaining your interest in and fit for the program you’re applying to.
• Program-specific questions (PSQ): These are questions specific to the program you’re applying to.
• Transcript(s)
• References: Three references are required; academic or professional sources.
• Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable: TOEFL 90 (writing 25, speaking 25), IELTS 7.0 (writing 6.5, speaking 6.5)

Tuition and Fees

Visit the graduate program tuition page to determine the tuition and incidental fees per term for your program. Review living costs and housing, including the PhD housing guarantee program for admitted students.