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PH-D in Biochemistry at Indian Institute of Science
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Biochemistry at Indian Institute of Science Bengaluru?
This Ph.D. in Biochemistry program at Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, focuses on advanced research into the molecular mechanisms underpinning life processes and disease. It emphasizes rigorous scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and experimental design. The program leverages India''''s burgeoning biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors, aiming to produce highly skilled researchers capable of contributing to academia and industry, addressing complex biological challenges.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for highly motivated M.Sc. graduates in life sciences, chemistry, or biotechnology, and B.Tech/B.E. graduates in biotechnology, seeking to pursue an intensive research career. It suits individuals passionate about scientific discovery, analytical problem-solving, and contributing to fundamental biological knowledge or translational research in areas like disease mechanisms, drug discovery, and sustainable agriculture.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure impactful positions as research scientists in leading Indian academic institutions (e.g., IISERs, IITs), national research labs (e.g., CSIR, ICMR), and R&D divisions of major pharmaceutical and biotech companies (e.g., Biocon, Dr. Reddy''''s). Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 8-15 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential into senior scientist and leadership roles. The rigorous training also prepares individuals for postdoctoral fellowships globally.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Biochemical Concepts- (Year 1 (initial coursework period))
Engage deeply with foundational coursework in molecular biology, cell biology, and advanced biochemistry. Regularly attend lectures, participate in discussions, and complete assignments. Utilize online resources like NPTEL lectures, Khan Academy, and standard biochemistry textbooks to solidify understanding, as this forms the bedrock for advanced research.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks (Lehninger, Voet & Voet), NPTEL courses, PubChem for biochemical pathways
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is crucial for designing robust experiments and interpreting complex data, directly impacting research success and future academic or industry roles.
Cultivate Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving- (Year 1-2)
Actively participate in journal clubs and departmental seminars. Challenge existing hypotheses, propose alternative interpretations, and develop the ability to critically evaluate scientific literature. Engage proactively with your supervisor and peers to refine your analytical skills, which are paramount for independent research.
Tools & Resources
PubMed/Google Scholar for scientific literature, Departmental Journal Clubs, Research Gate
Career Connection
These skills are fundamental for independent research, hypothesis generation, and troubleshooting, essential for any scientific career path.
Build Strong Laboratory Skills- (Year 1-2)
Dedicate time to hands-on laboratory work, mastering essential techniques relevant to biochemistry (e.g., protein purification, PCR, cell culture, chromatography, spectroscopy). Seek opportunities to assist senior researchers and learn from their expertise. Meticulous record-keeping and troubleshooting are vital.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Online protocol repositories (e.g., JoVE), Senior lab members
Career Connection
Proficiency in experimental techniques is non-negotiable for a research Ph.D. and highly valued in both academic and industrial R&D roles in India.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Independent Research Design- (Year 2-4)
Collaborate closely with your supervisor to define your Ph.D. research problem, formulate hypotheses, and design experiments. Learn to anticipate challenges and develop contingency plans. Present your research ideas in departmental meetings to gather diverse feedback and refine your approach.
Tools & Resources
Research proposals, Literature review tools (Mendeley, Zotero), Scientific writing guides
Career Connection
Mastering independent research design demonstrates leadership and innovation, positioning you for lead scientist roles or successful grant applications.
Develop Scientific Communication Skills- (Year 2-5)
Regularly write research reports, prepare presentations for lab meetings, and practice explaining complex scientific concepts clearly and concisely. Attend workshops on scientific writing and public speaking. Start preparing manuscripts for publication as early as possible to contribute to your publication record.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Microsoft PowerPoint/Google Slides, Toastmasters (if available)
Career Connection
Effective communication is vital for publishing research, presenting at conferences, and securing academic or industry positions in India and abroad.
Network and Collaborate- (Year 3-6)
Attend national and international conferences, workshops, and seminars. Actively engage with other researchers, presenting your work and seeking collaborations. Networking within the Indian scientific community (e.g., through regional science forums) can open doors to future opportunities and interdisciplinary projects.
Tools & Resources
Conference websites, LinkedIn, Professional scientific societies in India (e.g., Society of Biological Chemists, India)
Career Connection
Building a strong professional network is crucial for job opportunities, postdoctoral positions, and future collaborations in India''''s research landscape.
Advanced Stage
Master Data Analysis and Interpretation- (Year 4-7)
Gain advanced proficiency in statistical software (e.g., R, Python, GraphPad Prism) and bioinformatics tools relevant to your research. Learn to critically analyze your own data, identify significant findings, and present them in a publication-ready format. Seek expert advice for complex statistical analyses to ensure rigor.
Tools & Resources
R/Python programming, Biostatistics textbooks, Online bioinformatics courses
Career Connection
Advanced data analysis skills are highly sought after by biotech companies and research institutions for roles in data science, bioinformatics, and experimental design.
Strategize Thesis Writing and Defense- (Year 5-7)
Begin writing your thesis early, focusing on structuring chapters, integrating your research findings, and refining your arguments. Practice your thesis defense presentation extensively with your committee and lab members. Be prepared to address critical questions and defend your research rigorously.
Tools & Resources
Thesis guidelines from IISc, Academic writing workshops, Mock defense sessions
Career Connection
A well-written and successfully defended thesis is the ultimate credential, opening doors to top-tier postdoctoral positions and research scientist roles.
Plan Post-Ph.D. Career Pathways- (Year 6-7)
Explore diverse career options (academia, industry R&D, entrepreneurship, science communication, policy) both within India and internationally. Tailor your resume/CV, develop interview skills, and seek mentorship for specific career paths. Attend career fairs and industry interaction sessions organized by IISc or other local bodies to explore opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Career services at IISc, LinkedIn profiles of alumni, Industry job portals (Naukri, BioSpectrum India)
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition post-Ph.D., leveraging your expertise into suitable and fulfilling roles in the competitive Indian and global markets.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- M.Sc. in Biochemistry/Biotechnology/Life Sciences/Chemistry or M.B.B.S. or B.Tech./B.E. in Biotechnology. Applicants must also have a valid score in GATE / JEST / GPAT / UGC-JRF / CSIR-JRF / ICMR-JRF / DBT-JRF.
Duration: Typically 5-7 years (Coursework generally completed in the first 1-2 semesters)
Credits: Minimum 12 coursework credits required Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester coursework
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BC 201 | Macromolecular Structure and Function | Core Elective | 3 | Macromolecular concepts (proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, carbohydrates), Protein structure (primary, secondary, tertiary, quaternary), Macromolecular interactions and folding principles, Structural biology methods (Spectroscopy, NMR, X-ray, Cryo-EM), Enzymes: catalysis, kinetics, regulation mechanisms, Advanced protein and nucleic acid function |
| BC 202 | Cell Biology | Core Elective | 3 | Cell structure and organization (prokaryotic and eukaryotic), Membrane structure, function, and transport systems, Cell signaling pathways and receptors, Cytoskeleton dynamics and cell motility, Cell cycle regulation and checkpoints, Cell adhesion and extracellular matrix |
| BC 203 | Fundamentals of Biophysics | Core Elective | 2 | Thermodynamics in biological systems, Interactions in biological macromolecules, Spectroscopic techniques (UV-Vis, Fluorescence, CD), Crystallography and NMR principles for biomolecules, Forces in biological systems, Conformational dynamics of proteins and nucleic acids |
| BC 204 | Enzymology and Protein Chemistry | Core Elective | 3 | Enzyme kinetics and reaction mechanisms, Enzyme regulation and inhibition, Protein purification and characterization techniques, Protein modification and denaturation, Catalytic strategies of enzymes, Bioanalytical methods for protein studies |
| BC 205 | Metabolism | Core Elective | 2 | Glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, glycogen metabolism, Citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation, Fatty acid synthesis and degradation, Amino acid and nucleotide metabolism, Integration and regulation of metabolic pathways, Hormonal control of metabolism |
| BC 206 | Immunology | Core Elective | 3 | Components of innate and adaptive immunity, Antigen presentation and processing, B cell and T cell development and activation, Antibody structure and function, Immune system disorders and deficiencies, Vaccines and immunotherapeutic approaches |
| BC 207 | Neurobiology | Core Elective | 2 | Structure and function of neurons, Synaptic transmission and plasticity, Sensory systems and perception, Motor control and reflexes, Neural development and regeneration, Neurotransmitters and their receptors |
| BC 208 | Developmental Biology | Core Elective | 2 | Gametogenesis and fertilization, Early embryonic development (cleavage, gastrulation), Pattern formation and morphogenesis, Cell differentiation and stem cells, Organogenesis and tissue development, Developmental genetics and regulatory networks |
| BC 209 | Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering | Core Elective | 3 | DNA replication, transcription, translation, Gene regulation in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, Recombinant DNA technology and cloning vectors, PCR and gene manipulation techniques, CRISPR-Cas9 and genome editing, Genomic libraries and gene expression analysis |
| BC 210 | Signal Transduction and Cancer Biology | Core Elective | 2 | Cell surface receptors and intracellular signaling cascades, G protein coupled receptors, receptor tyrosine kinases, Second messengers (cAMP, calcium, DAG), Oncogenes, tumor suppressors, and cell cycle control, Apoptosis and programmed cell death, Molecular basis of cancer development and therapy |
| BC 211 | Plant Biochemistry | Core Elective | 2 | Photosynthesis and carbon fixation pathways, Plant hormones and growth regulation, Secondary metabolites in plants, Nutrient uptake and transport in plants, Stress physiology in plants, Plant genetic engineering for crop improvement |
| BC 212 | Structural Biology and Biophysical Methods | Core Elective | 3 | Principles of X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy for biomolecules, Cryo-electron microscopy applications, Mass spectrometry in structural biology, Protein folding, misfolding, and associated diseases, Drug discovery and rational design based on structure |
| BC 213 | Genomics and Proteomics | Core Elective | 3 | Genome sequencing technologies (Next-Generation Sequencing), Genome assembly and annotation strategies, Transcriptomics (RNA-seq) and gene expression analysis, Proteomics techniques (2D-PAGE, Mass Spectrometry), Protein-protein interaction networks, Bioinformatics tools for -omics data analysis |
| BC 214 | Chemical Biology | Core Elective | 2 | Synthesis of small molecules for biological perturbation, Activity-based protein profiling, Biosensors and imaging probes, Chemical genetics and target identification, Protein engineering and directed evolution, Drug delivery systems using chemical principles |
| BC 215 | Biological Mass Spectrometry | Core Elective | 1 | Principles of mass spectrometry, Ionization techniques (ESI, MALDI), Mass analyzers (TOF, Q, Orbitrap), Proteomics by mass spectrometry, Metabolomics and lipidomics applications, Data analysis in mass spectrometry |
| BC 216 | Bio-organic and Medicinal Chemistry | Core Elective | 2 | Principles of organic reactions in biological systems, Drug design strategies and lead optimization, Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, Natural products as drug sources, Synthetic approaches to drug molecules, Target identification and validation for therapeutic agents |
| BC 217 | Biomaterials Science and Engineering | Core Elective | 2 | Classes of biomaterials (polymers, ceramics, metals), Biocompatibility and host response, Surface modification of biomaterials, Tissue engineering scaffolds, Drug delivery systems using biomaterials, Medical implants and devices |
| BC 218 | Advanced Techniques in Molecular and Cell Biology | Core Elective | 2 | Fluorescence microscopy and advanced imaging techniques, Flow cytometry and cell sorting, CRISPR-Cas9 applications in research, Electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence, Real-time PCR and gene expression analysis |
| BC 219 | Advanced Biochemistry | Core Elective | 3 | Advanced topics in protein structure and dynamics, Enzyme mechanisms and regulation at a molecular level, Regulation of gene expression and epigenetics, Signal transduction networks in disease, Metabolic engineering and synthetic biology, Biochemistry of stress response |
| BC 220 | Quantitative Biology | Core Elective | 2 | Mathematical modeling in biology, Statistical methods for biological data analysis, Computational approaches in systems biology, Data analysis and visualization techniques, Population dynamics and evolutionary models, Stochastic processes in cellular regulation |
| BC 221 | Biochemical Basis of Disease | Core Elective | 2 | Metabolic disorders (diabetes, obesity), Neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer''''s, Parkinson''''s), Cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis, Infectious diseases and host-pathogen interactions, Cancer biochemistry and therapeutic targets, Genetic diseases and molecular diagnostics |
| BC 222 | Human Genetics | Core Elective | 2 | Patterns of inheritance and genetic disorders, Chromosomal aberrations, Gene mapping and linkage analysis, Population genetics and evolution, Pharmacogenomics and personalized medicine, Genetic counseling and ethical issues |
| BC 223 | Computational Biology | Core Elective | 2 | Sequence alignment and database searching (BLAST), Phylogenetic tree construction, Protein structure prediction and modeling, Molecular docking and drug discovery, Transcriptomics and proteomics data analysis, Systems biology approaches |
| BC 224 | Research Methodology and Biostatistics | Core Elective | 2 | Experimental design and hypothesis testing, Sampling techniques and data collection, Descriptive and inferential statistics, Statistical software usage (R, SPSS), Scientific writing and presentation skills, Ethical considerations in research |
| BC 225 | Biophysical Chemistry | Core Elective | 2 | Thermodynamics of biomolecular interactions, Spectroscopic methods for biomolecules (CD, FTIR, EPR), Hydrodynamic techniques (sedimentation, DLS), Calorimetry (ITC, DSC) for binding and stability, Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) and biosensors, Kinetic analysis of biomolecular processes |
| BC 226 | Biology of Ageing | Core Elective | 2 | Theories of aging, Cellular and molecular hallmarks of aging, Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, Autophagy and proteostasis in aging, Genetic and environmental factors in longevity, Interventions to modulate aging |
| BC 227 | Molecular Parasitology | Core Elective | 2 | Biology of major human parasites, Host-parasite interactions at a molecular level, Parasite metabolism and drug targets, Immunity to parasitic infections, Parasite genomics and proteomics, Vaccine development against parasites |
| BC 228 | Epigenetics | Core Elective | 2 | DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation, Histone modifications and chromatin remodeling, Non-coding RNAs (miRNAs, lncRNAs) in gene regulation, Epigenetic mechanisms in development and disease, Environmental epigenetics, Epigenetic therapies |
| BC 229 | Introduction to Data Science for Biologists | Core Elective | 2 | Basics of Python/R for biological data, Data cleaning and preprocessing, Exploratory data analysis and visualization, Machine learning fundamentals (regression, classification), Statistical inference in biology, Handling large biological datasets |
| BC 230 | Advanced Immunology | Core Elective | 2 | T cell and B cell receptor signaling pathways, Cytokine networks and immune regulation, Immunological tolerance and autoimmunity, Tumor immunology and immunotherapy, Vaccine design and adjuvant development, Host-pathogen interactions and immune evasion |
| BC 231 | Cancer and Metabolism | Core Elective | 2 | Metabolic reprogramming in cancer (Warburg effect), Mitochondrial dysfunction in cancer, Oncogenic signaling and metabolic enzymes, Metabolic vulnerabilities as therapeutic targets, Nutrient sensing pathways in tumor growth, Interplay of microenvironment and cancer metabolism |
