Program Overview

Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Sciences

Program Summary

The Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Sciences program at MBRU is designed to train and nurture scientists and support research in the medical and biomedical sciences in the UAE. The program focuses on broader themes of medical and biomedical sciences, capitalizing on the areas of strength within MBRU.

Duration

The duration of the program is 4 years.

Tuition Fee

The program offers a full scholarship.

Application Deadline

The application deadline is April 13, 2026.

Study Type

The program is full-time and campus-based.

About the Program

The program provides prospective graduate students with a strong foundation in the frontiers of biomedical sciences through various coursework and intense laboratory research training. The research work takes place in newly equipped, state-of-the-art laboratories, focusing on genetics, cancer biology, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and more.

Timeline

• October 13, 2025: Applications open
• April 13, 2026: Applications close
• April 13, 2026: English submission deadline
• May 6, 2026: Entrance exam
• May 13-14, 2026: Personal interviews
• 3 weeks after interview: Admission offers

Admission Criteria

University Students & Graduates

• Hold a Master of Science degree in biomedical sciences or a related subject with a minimum CGPA of 3.00 on a scale of 4.00.
• Applicants with a Bachelor's degree in biomedical sciences or a related subject with a CGPA of 3.7 out of 4.0 may be considered for admission.
• Research experience and a good Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test score are preferred.

English Proficiency

• IELTS Academic: Minimum of band 6 with no skill less than 5.5
• TOEFL: iBT 80; CBT 213
• Exemptions apply to native English speakers and graduates from MBRU's Master programs within the last two years.

Required Documents

• Recent photo
• Valid passport copy
• Emirates ID Card (if applicable)
• Family Book (UAE Nationals only)
• Residency Permit (if applicable)
• Curriculum Vitae
• Official undergraduate and postgraduate degree certificates and transcripts
• Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) – General with Grade Average evaluation (if applicable)
• Two recommendation letters
• Results of English Proficiency Test

Exam

The entrance exam evaluates foundational knowledge and advanced reasoning skills essential for success in a doctoral program. The exam consists of two parts: Biomedical Sciences Knowledge and Aptitude, Critical Thinking & Scientific Reasoning.

Interview

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for a personal interview.

Tuition Fees

• Application fee: AED 1,000 + AED 50 (5% VAT)
• Seat reservation fee: AED 10,000 (non-refundable)
• Annual tuition fee: AED 69,000/year for the first 3 years and AED 55,200 in the final year

Document Attestation

All applicants must obtain equivalency/recognition of their educational degree from the UAE Ministry of Education.

Transfer Admission Policy

The PhD in Biomedical Sciences program does not accept transfer of admissions, transfer credit, nor recognition of prior learning.

Academic Calendar

The academic calendar is available for download.

List of Projects

A list of potential research projects is available, including topics such as molecular epidemiology, genomic landscape, transcriptional deregulation in cancer, and more. Research topics and supervisors will be assigned to accepted students based on a mutual matching process.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why study for a Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Sciences at MBRU?
• Does the University provide accommodation?
• What is the duration of the Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Sciences program?