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PHD in Biosciences And Bioengineering at Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee

Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, an Institute of National Importance in Uttarakhand, builds on a legacy since 1847, established as an IIT in 2001. A premier institution, it excels in engineering, sciences, and management, offering diverse programs, consistently achieving top national rankings, and ensuring strong placements.

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location

Haridwar, Uttarakhand

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About the Specialization

What is Biosciences and Bioengineering at Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee Haridwar?

This Biosciences and Bioengineering program at IIT Roorkee focuses on cutting-edge interdisciplinary research, integrating biology, engineering, and medicine. It addresses critical challenges in healthcare, agriculture, and environment, highly relevant to India''''s burgeoning biotechnology sector. The program emphasizes innovation in areas like drug discovery, diagnostics, and biomaterials, differentiating it through a strong research-centric approach and fostering a robust talent pool for the Indian biotech industry.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for master''''s graduates in life sciences, biotechnology, or engineering disciplines seeking advanced research careers. It attracts fresh postgraduates aiming for impactful R&D roles in academia or industry, and professionals looking to specialize further in emerging bioengineering fields. Candidates with a strong research aptitude and foundational knowledge in biological sciences or engineering are particularly well-suited for this rigorous program.

Why Choose This Course?

Graduates of this program can expect to pursue high-impact research and development careers in India''''s leading pharmaceutical companies, biotech startups, and academic institutions. Roles span from Senior Research Scientists to R&D Managers, with competitive salary ranges (starting INR 8-15 LPA for fresh PhDs, increasing significantly with experience). This specialization also opens avenues for post-doctoral fellowships globally and leadership positions in public health and regulatory bodies.

Student Success Practices

Foundation Stage

Master Core Concepts and Literature Review- (Semester 1-2)

Thoroughly grasp advanced molecular and cell biology, which form the bedrock of bioengineering. Dedicate significant time to comprehensive literature reviews in your chosen research area, identifying gaps and potential contributions. Regularly attend departmental seminars and guest lectures to broaden your perspective.

Tools & Resources

PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, departmental library resources, research group meetings

Career Connection

A strong foundation is critical for developing innovative research proposals and ensures you are well-versed in your domain, preparing you for initial research roles.

Cultivate Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills- (Semester 1-2)

Engage actively in coursework, not just for grades, but to develop analytical and critical thinking. Participate in group discussions, challenge assumptions, and propose alternative solutions to complex biological problems. Seek feedback from professors on your analytical approaches.

Tools & Resources

Course problem sets, journal club discussions, mentorship from senior PhD students

Career Connection

These skills are invaluable for designing experiments, interpreting data, and troubleshooting research challenges, qualities highly sought after in R&D roles.

Build a Robust Mentorship Network- (Semester 1-2)

Beyond your primary supervisor, identify and connect with other faculty members whose research aligns with your interests. Engage with post-doctoral fellows and senior PhD students for guidance, technical tips, and insights into navigating the PhD journey at IIT Roorkee. Attend inter-departmental research symposia.

Tools & Resources

Departmental faculty profiles, research group meetings, institute research events

Career Connection

A strong network provides diverse perspectives, opens doors to collaborations, and can lead to future career opportunities and recommendations within the Indian scientific community.

Intermediate Stage

Develop Advanced Experimental and Computational Skills- (Semester 3-5)

Actively participate in lab work, mastering advanced techniques relevant to your research (e.g., genomics, proteomics, imaging, bioreactor operation). If applicable, delve into computational tools like R, Python, or specialized bioinformatics software. Seek out workshops or short courses offered by the institute.

Tools & Resources

Laboratory instrumentation, NCBI databases, Python/R programming environments, Google Colab, institute-organized workshops

Career Connection

Hands-on expertise in advanced techniques and computational analysis makes you a highly skilled researcher, directly enhancing your employability in biotech and pharma companies.

Present Research and Seek Peer Review- (Semester 3-5)

Regularly present your research progress in departmental seminars, journal clubs, and internal symposia. Actively seek constructive criticism from peers and faculty. Attend national/international conferences (e.g., in India, abroad) to present posters or oral talks, gaining exposure and networking.

Tools & Resources

Departmental seminar series, institute research conferences, national scientific meetings (e.g., IISER, DBT conferences)

Career Connection

Effective scientific communication is crucial for securing grants, publishing papers, and presenting your work in job interviews. Conference participation builds your professional profile.

Start Publishing and Patenting Early- (Semester 3-5)

Aim to publish your research findings in reputable peer-reviewed journals as early as possible. Discuss potential patent applications with your supervisor and the institute''''s intellectual property cell if your research yields novel inventions, especially those with Indian market potential.

Tools & Resources

Journal submission guidelines, IIT Roorkee IP Cell, Patent filing resources

Career Connection

Publications and patents are strong indicators of research productivity and innovation, significantly boosting your resume for academic positions, R&D roles, and entrepreneurial ventures in India.

Advanced Stage

Refine Thesis Writing and Defense Skills- (Semester 6-8)

Dedicate consistent effort to writing your thesis, focusing on clarity, coherence, and impact. Practice mock thesis defenses with your committee and peers to anticipate questions and refine your presentation style. Seek feedback on your writing from mentors and proofreaders.

Tools & Resources

LaTeX/Word for thesis writing, Grammarly, mock defense sessions, feedback from supervisor and committee

Career Connection

A well-written and defended thesis is the culmination of your PhD, demonstrating your ability to conduct and communicate independent research, essential for any advanced scientific role.

Engage in Grant Writing and Project Management- (Semester 6-8)

Collaborate with your supervisor on grant applications or proposals for new projects. Understand the funding landscape in India (e.g., DBT, SERB, ICMR). Take on leadership roles in lab projects, honing your project management, team coordination, and mentorship skills for junior researchers.

Tools & Resources

DBT, SERB, ICMR grant calls, project management software (e.g., Trello, Asana), mentorship of junior students

Career Connection

Experience in securing funding and managing projects is highly valued for academic faculty positions, R&D leadership roles, and entrepreneurial endeavors in the Indian biotech ecosystem.

Network Strategically for Post-PhD Opportunities- (Semester 6-8)

Actively network at national and international conferences, workshops, and industry events (e.g., BioAsia, India International Science Festival). Connect with alumni working in your desired sectors. Tailor your CV/resume and cover letters for specific job roles, preparing for both academic and industrial interviews in India.

Tools & Resources

LinkedIn, conference networking events, IIT Roorkee Alumni network, career development workshops

Career Connection

Proactive networking is crucial for discovering post-PhD positions, securing referrals, and making informed career decisions, leading to successful placements in top Indian and global organizations.

Program Structure and Curriculum

Eligibility:

  • Master''''s degree in relevant Engineering/Technology/Architecture/Pharmacy/Planning (6.5 CGPA or 60%) or Science/Humanities & Social Sciences (6.0 CGPA or 55%). OR Bachelor''''s degree in Engg/Tech/Arch/Pharmacy (8.0 CGPA or 75%). Valid GATE/GPAT/CSIR-UGC NET/DBT/ICMR/DST INSPIRE Fellowship or equivalent for non-IIT graduates.

Duration: 3-5 years (minimum 2-3 years, maximum 7 years for full-time scholars)

Credits: Minimum 12 credits for coursework Credits

Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined

Semester-wise Curriculum Table

Semester 1

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
BSB-601Advanced Molecular BiologyCore4Recombinant DNA technology, Molecular cloning, cloning vectors, restriction enzymes, Gene expression, protein engineering, Genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, Next generation sequencing, gene therapy, CRISPR-Cas and genome editing
BSB-602Advanced Cell BiologyCore4Structural organization and function of cell organelles, Cell membrane structure and function, transport mechanisms, Cell adhesion, extracellular matrix, cell-cell communication, Cell cycle, cell division, cell death, stem cell biology, Cellular basis of diseases, principles of microscopy, flow cytometry

Semester 2

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
BSB-603Advanced BiochemistryElective3Biomolecules, bioenergetics, Enzyme kinetics, metabolic pathways, Regulation of metabolism, photosynthesis, Signal transduction, nucleic acid metabolism, Protein synthesis, advanced techniques in biochemistry
BSB-604Advanced Bioprocess EngineeringElective3Fermentation technology, bioreactor design and operation, Downstream processing, bioprocess economics, Cell culture engineering, enzyme technology, Product recovery and purification, sterilization, Bioseparations
BSB-605Advanced BioinformaticsElective3Sequence alignment, phylogenetic analysis, Protein structure prediction, drug design, Genomics, proteomics, systems biology, Big data analysis in biology, programming for bioinformatics, Biological databases
BSB-606Advanced NeurobiologyElective3Neuronal structure and function, synaptic transmission, Neural circuits, sensory systems, motor systems, Learning and memory, neurodegenerative diseases, Neuroimaging, neural development, Cognitive neuroscience
BSB-607Advanced ImmunologyElective3Innate and adaptive immunity, Immune cell development and function, antibody structure and diversity, T cell receptor, antigen presentation, cytokines, Immune regulation, autoimmunity, immunodeficiencies, Vaccine development
BSB-608Advanced Environmental BiotechnologyElective3Bioremediation, waste treatment, Bioenergy production, microbial ecology, Environmental diagnostics, biosensors, Pollution control, sustainable development, Industrial effluent treatment, climate change mitigation
BSB-609Advanced BiomaterialsElective3Properties of biomaterials, biocompatibility, Biodegradability, biopolymers, ceramics, composites, metals, Tissue engineering scaffolds, drug delivery systems, Medical implants, Surface modification of biomaterials
BSB-610Advanced Medical BiotechnologyElective3Recombinant therapeutics, gene therapy, stem cell therapy, Molecular diagnostics, biosensors in medicine, Drug discovery and development, precision medicine, Bioinformatics in healthcare, Medical devices, personalized medicine
BSB-611Advanced Regenerative MedicineElective3Stem cells, tissue engineering, Biomaterials for regeneration, organoids, Cell transplantation, gene editing for regeneration, Regenerative therapies for various organs, Clinical applications, ethical considerations
BSB-612Advanced Systems BiologyElective3Omics technologies, network biology, Mathematical modeling of biological systems, Computational tools, synthetic biology, Metabolic engineering, data integration, Pathway analysis, drug targeting
BSB-613Advanced Plant BiotechnologyElective3Plant tissue culture, genetic transformation, Molecular breeding, crop improvement, Stress tolerance, biofortification, Molecular markers, plant genome editing, Transgenic plants, phytoremediation
BSB-614Advanced Food BiotechnologyElective3Food processing, microbial fermentation in food, Food safety, genetically modified foods, Probiotics and prebiotics, food enzymes, Food additives, nutraceuticals, functional foods, Food quality control
BSB-615Advanced BiostatisticsElective3Experimental design, hypothesis testing, Regression analysis, ANOVA, Multivariate analysis, survival analysis, Bioinformatics statistics, statistical software, Data interpretation, clinical trials statistics
BSB-616Advanced Structural BiologyElective3Protein and nucleic acid structure, X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, cryo-EM, Mass spectrometry, protein folding, Structure-function relationships, drug discovery, Computational structural biology
BSB-617Advanced Synthetic BiologyElective3Genetic circuits, biosensors, Metabolic pathway engineering, chassis organisms, Genome design, minimal cells, biobricks, Ethical implications, applications in medicine, Applications in energy
BSB-618Advanced Developmental BiologyElective3Gametogenesis, fertilization, embryogenesis, Organogenesis, cell differentiation, Pattern formation, developmental genes, Stem cells in development, regeneration, Evolutionary developmental biology
BSB-619Advanced Cancer BiologyElective3Hallmarks of cancer, oncogenes and tumor suppressors, Cell cycle control, apoptosis, metastasis, Angiogenesis, cancer genomics, Epigenetics in cancer, immunotherapy, Targeted therapies
BSB-620Advanced Microbial BiotechnologyElective3Microbial diversity, industrial microbiology, Microbial genetics, extremophiles, Biofuel production, microbial diagnostics, Probiotics, microbial enzymes, Wastewater treatment, fermentation
BSB-621Advanced NanobiotechnologyElective3Nanomaterials in biology, nanoparticles synthesis, Nanomedicine, drug delivery, biosensors, Imaging, tissue engineering, Toxicity of nanomaterials, Applications in diagnostics and therapeutics
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