Program Overview

Doctorate in Philosophy Biology and Specialization Bioinformatics

The Doctorate in Philosophy Biology and Specialization Bioinformatics is a research-based program that prepares candidates for a variety of careers in teaching and research both within and outside of academia.

Program Description

The program prepares candidates for a variety of careers in teaching and research both within and outside of academia. Graduate students are actively involved in laboratory research, course work, and presentation of research seminars. Thus, they acquire autonomy in conducting research and in preparing publications. The programs create a stimulating and challenging environment which will allow students to achieve excellence in research. Graduates of the programs must demonstrate research skills and credibility as professionals in their area of research.

Collaborative Program Description

Bioinformatics is an emerging and increasingly important scientific discipline dedicated to the pursuit of fundamental questions about the structure, function and evolution of biological entities through the design and application of computational approaches. Fundamental research in these areas is expected to increase our understanding of human health and disease which translates into innovation in industry. Bioinformaticians today must be able to appreciate significant research in other fields and therefore require an understanding of the basic principles of other disciplines. The degree awarded specifies the primary program and indicates "specialization in Bioinformatics."

Main Areas of Research

• Molecular and cellular biology
• Microbiology
• Genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics
• Ecology and evolution
• Environmental toxicology

Other Programs Offered Within the Same Discipline or in a Related Area

• Master of Science Biology (MSc)
• Master of Science Biology Specialization in Chemical and Environmental Toxicology (MSc)
• Master of Science Biology Specialization in Bioinformatics (MSc)
• Master of Science Biology Specialization in Science, Society and Policy (MSc)
• Doctorate in Philosophy Biology (PhD)
• Doctorate in Philosophy Biology Specialization in Chemical and Environmental Toxicology (PhD)

Fees and Funding

The estimated amount for university fees associated with this program are available under the section Finance your studies. International students enrolled in a French-language program of study may be eligible for a differential tuition fee exemption.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible, candidates must:

• Have a master's degree in science (or equivalent) with a minimum average of 75% (B+).
• Demonstrate a good academic performance in previous studies as shown by official transcripts, research reports, abstracts or any other documents demonstrating research skills.
• Identify at least one professor who is willing to supervise your research and thesis.

Language Requirements

Applicants must be able to understand and fluently speak the language of instruction in the program to which they are applying. Proof of linguistic proficiency may be required.

Program Requirements

Students must meet the following requirements:

• Course List Code | Title | Units
  • Optional Courses |
    • 3 optional course units in biology (BIO) or bioinformatics (BNF) at the 5000 or 8000 level | 3 Units
  • Seminars |
    • BIO 8950 | Research and Communication in Biology | 3 Units
    • BNF 8166 | Seminar in Bioinformatics | 3 Units
  • Comprehensive Examination |
    • BIO 9998 | Comprehensive Examination |
  • Thesis |
    • THD 9999 | Doctoral Thesis

Research at the University of Ottawa

Located in the heart of Canadas capital, a few steps away from Parliament Hill, the University of Ottawa ranks among Canadas top 10 research universities. Our research is founded on excellence, relevance and impact and is conducted in a spirit of equity, diversity and inclusion.

Research at the Faculty of Science

The Faculty of Science has become a true centre of excellence in research through its world-class professors as well as its programs and infrastructure in Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics, and Physics.

Fast-Track from Masters to PhD

Students enrolled in the masters program in Biology with specialization in Bioinformatics at the University of Ottawa may be eligible to fast-track directly into the doctoral program without writing a masters thesis, provided the following conditions are met:

• You must have completed the course requirements of your MSc program with a mark of A- or above in each course.
• Complete all the core courses required for the M.Sc.
• Demonstrate a satisfactory progress in the research program.
• Provide a written recommendation by the thesis supervisor.
• Provide a written recommendation by the Departmental Graduate Studies Committee.