

PHD in Life Sciences at Dibrugarh University


Dibrugarh, Assam
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About the Specialization
What is Life Sciences at Dibrugarh University Dibrugarh?
This Life Sciences PhD program at Dibrugarh University focuses on advanced, interdisciplinary research across diverse biological domains, crucial for India''''s evolving biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors. It emphasizes cutting-edge investigations in molecular biology, environmental science, and biodiversity, addressing critical national health and environmental challenges.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for highly motivated post-graduates in biological sciences, including M.Sc. or M.Phil. holders, seeking to contribute original research to scientific knowledge. It also suits professionals in academia or industry aiming for leadership roles in R&D, requiring deep analytical and investigative skills.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in Indian universities, national research institutions like CSIR labs, or pharmaceutical and biotech R&D firms. Typical starting salaries for PhDs in India range from INR 6-12 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential in senior scientist or academic positions.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Literature Review- (First 1-1.5 years)
Thoroughly understand research ethics, statistical tools, experimental design, and conduct exhaustive literature reviews using databases like PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar to identify critical research gaps.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R, Mendeley/Zotero, Institutional library resources, Online courses on research ethics
Career Connection
Builds foundational skills for hypothesis formulation, robust experimental planning, and effective scientific communication, essential for any research career.
Engage in Departmental Seminars and Workshops- (Throughout PhD (especially first 2 years))
Regularly attend and actively participate in departmental seminars, journal clubs, and workshops. Stay updated on ongoing research, hone presentation skills, and receive feedback on your work from peers and faculty.
Tools & Resources
Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides), Departmental seminar schedules, Research group meetings
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking, scientific communication, and networking skills, invaluable for academic and R&D roles in India.
Formulate an Early Publication Strategy- (Within first 2 years)
Aim to publish at least one review paper or preliminary data-based paper in a peer-reviewed journal within the first two years. This helps structure thoughts, refine writing, and gain early research visibility.
Tools & Resources
Journal databases, Institutional guidance on manuscript preparation, Proofreading tools
Career Connection
Establishes a publication record, crucial for securing post-doctoral positions, research grants, and academic appointments in India.
Intermediate Stage
Seek Collaborative Research Projects- (Years 2-4)
Actively seek opportunities to collaborate with other research groups, both within the university and at external institutions (e.g., CSIR, ICMR labs). This broadens your experimental skillset and professional network.
Tools & Resources
Research collaboration platforms, Institutional agreements, Supervisor''''s network
Career Connection
Enhances interdisciplinary problem-solving, teamwork, and expands professional networks, vital for complex R&D environments in India.
Develop Advanced Data Analysis and Programming Skills- (Years 2-3)
Beyond basic statistics, learn advanced data visualization, bioinformatics tools, or programming languages (e.g., Python for data science) relevant to your specific research area for efficient data processing and interpretation.
Tools & Resources
Python, R, MATLAB, Specialized bioinformatics software, Online coding platforms (Coursera, NPTEL)
Career Connection
Positions you as a versatile scientist capable of handling large datasets, highly sought after in modern biotech and pharma industries in India.
Gain Grant Writing and Project Management Exposure- (Years 3-4)
Assist your supervisor in preparing research grant proposals or apply for small travel grants/fellowships. Understand project timelines, budgeting, and resource allocation within research projects.
Tools & Resources
Funding agency websites (DST, DBT, UGC), Institutional research grants office
Career Connection
Develops essential skills for leading independent research projects and securing funding, crucial for a long-term research career in India.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Thesis Writing and Defense Preparation- (Years 4-5)
Dedicate significant time to systematically writing your thesis, ensuring clarity, logical flow, and rigorous scientific argument. Prepare meticulously for the viva-voce, anticipating questions and practicing presentations.
Tools & Resources
Thesis templates, Academic writing workshops, Mock defense sessions with peers/mentors
Career Connection
Successfully completing and defending the thesis is the ultimate goal, showcasing your ability to conduct independent, high-quality research.
Engage in Professional Networking and Career Planning- (Years 4-6)
Attend national and international conferences (e.g., Indian Science Congress) to present your work, network with senior researchers, and explore post-doctoral or industry career opportunities. Update your CV/LinkedIn regularly.
Tools & Resources
Conference websites, LinkedIn, University career services
Career Connection
Crucial for job searching, finding mentors, and understanding current research trends and opportunities in Indian academia and industry.
Mentor Junior Researchers- (Years 4-6)
Take on a mentoring role for M.Sc. students or junior PhD candidates in your lab. Guiding others reinforces your understanding, develops leadership, and refines your communication and problem-solving skills.
Tools & Resources
Departmental initiatives, Personal experience, Leadership training
Career Connection
Demonstrates leadership and teaching aptitude, valuable for academic positions and managing research teams in Indian industry.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree or equivalent professional degree with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled) in aggregate, or M.Phil. with at least 55% marks, or qualified UGC/CSIR-NET/SLET/GATE/Teacher Fellowship.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years
Credits: 12 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20% (for Papers I & II), External: 80% (for Papers I & II)




