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PH-D in Foods Nutrition at University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Foods & Nutrition at University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru Bengaluru?
This Ph.D. in Foods & Nutrition program at the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, focuses on advanced research and scholarly inquiry into food science, human nutrition, dietetics, and their impact on health and well-being. It addresses critical issues facing India, such as food security, malnutrition, public health, and sustainable food systems. The program emphasizes innovative solutions to contemporary challenges in the Indian food and nutrition landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s graduates in Food Science, Nutrition, Dietetics, Home Science, or related agricultural/biological sciences seeking to pursue an academic or research career. It caters to individuals passionate about contributing original research to advance the understanding and application of food and nutrition science. Researchers, university faculty aspirants, and government policy advisors in public health and agriculture would find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure roles as Senior Scientists in ICAR institutions, Food Analysts in government and private labs, or Nutrition Specialists in NGOs. Entry-level salaries for Ph.D. holders can range from INR 6-10 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 15-25 lakhs in research and development or academic leadership roles. The program fosters critical thinking and advanced research skills, crucial for significant growth trajectories in Indian agri-food and health sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Fundamentals and Literature Review- (Semester 1-2 (Year 1))
Thoroughly engage with coursework on research methodology and statistics. Dedicate significant time to comprehensive literature review using databases like PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to identify research gaps relevant to Foods & Nutrition in India. Join departmental journal clubs.
Tools & Resources
UASB Library Resources, Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, ResearchGate, PubMed
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures rigorous research design, robust data interpretation, and forms the bedrock for impactful publications, critical for a research or academic career.
Develop Proposal and Advisory Committee Interaction- (Semester 1-2 (Year 1))
Work closely with your assigned advisory committee to refine your research proposal, scope, and objectives. Regularly schedule meetings to seek feedback, discuss progress, and align your research with the committee''''s expertise. Present your refined proposal in departmental seminars.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft Teams/Google Meet, Departmental Seminar Series
Career Connection
Effective committee interaction is vital for timely thesis completion and securing valuable mentorship, which aids in navigating academic and industry research landscapes.
Network and Attend Seminars/Workshops- (Semester 1-2 (Year 1))
Actively participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and national/international conferences related to Foods & Nutrition. Network with faculty, fellow Ph.D. scholars, and industry professionals to broaden perspectives and explore collaborative opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Professional associations (e.g., AFST(I), NSI), University event calendars
Career Connection
Building a strong professional network opens doors to post-doctoral opportunities, collaborations, and industry positions, enhancing career growth in India and globally.
Intermediate Stage
Execute Research Experiments and Data Collection- (Semester 3-5 (Years 2-3))
Systematically conduct experiments, field trials, or surveys as per your research design. Maintain meticulous records, troubleshoot challenges, and ensure ethical guidelines are strictly followed, especially for human or animal studies, common in nutrition research.
Tools & Resources
Laboratory equipment, Statistical software (SAS, R, SPSS), Field survey tools
Career Connection
Proficiency in experimental design and data collection is a core competency for any research scientist, directly impacting the quality and publishability of your work.
Engage in Scientific Writing and Publication- (Semester 3-5 (Years 2-3))
Begin writing research papers based on your initial findings and aim for publication in peer-reviewed journals. This iterative process of writing, peer review, and revision is crucial for developing your academic voice and establishing your scientific credibility.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly/QuillBot, Journal submission platforms, UASB''''s research support services
Career Connection
Publications are key metrics for academic recruitment and promotions in India. They enhance your visibility and open pathways to national and international research grants.
Seek Grant and Funding Opportunities- (Semester 3-5 (Years 2-3))
Explore and apply for competitive research grants or scholarships from agencies like DBT, DST, ICMR, or UGC. Learning to write compelling grant proposals is an invaluable skill for an independent researcher.
Tools & Resources
Government research portals, University research grants office
Career Connection
Securing external funding demonstrates independence and vision, making you a highly attractive candidate for senior research roles and faculty positions across Indian universities and research institutes.
Advanced Stage
Complete Thesis Writing and Defense Preparation- (Semester 6 onwards (Years 3-5))
Focus intently on writing your doctoral thesis, synthesizing all your research findings into a coherent and impactful document. Practice your thesis defense presentation extensively with your advisory committee and peers.
Tools & Resources
LaTeX/Microsoft Word for thesis formatting, Presentation software
Career Connection
A well-written thesis and a strong defense signify the culmination of your doctoral journey, demonstrating your expertise and readiness for leadership roles in research and academia.
Mentor Junior Researchers and Teaching Engagement- (Semester 6 onwards (Years 3-5))
Take on mentorship roles for M.Sc. students, assisting them with their research projects or guiding them in laboratory techniques. Seek opportunities to deliver guest lectures or assist in teaching undergraduate courses.
Tools & Resources
Departmental teaching opportunities, Peer mentorship programs
Career Connection
Developing teaching and mentoring skills is essential for academic positions and demonstrates leadership capabilities, preparing you for faculty roles in India''''s growing higher education sector.
Career Planning and Post-Doctoral Exploration- (Semester 6 onwards (Years 3-5))
Actively explore post-doctoral fellowships, research positions, or industry roles in India and abroad. Tailor your CV and cover letters, and prepare for interviews, leveraging your publications and research experience.
Tools & Resources
Career services at UASB, LinkedIn, SciDev.Net, AcademicJobs.com
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition post-Ph.D., aligning your advanced skills with the demands of top research institutions, universities, and food/nutrition industries in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Food Science, Nutrition, Home Science with Food & Nutrition specialization) with a minimum OGPA of 3.00/4.00 or 7.00/10.00 (or equivalent).
Duration: Minimum 3 years
Credits: Minimum 70 credits Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40% (Mid-Term Examination & Sessional marks), External: 60% (Final Examination)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ph.D. 701 | Research Methodology | Core (General Ph.D. Coursework) | 3 | Research design and types, Sampling techniques and data collection, Statistical methods and hypothesis testing, Data analysis and interpretation, Scientific report and thesis writing |
| FSN 704 | Advanced Human Nutrition | Major Elective (Prescribed by Advisory Committee) | 3 | Macro and micronutrient metabolism, Nutritional genomics and epigenetics, Advanced dietary assessment methods, Nutrition in public health programs, Malnutrition and chronic diseases |
| Ph.D. 790 | Doctoral Seminar I | Core (General Ph.D. Coursework) | 1 | Extensive literature review, Identification of research problem, Scientific presentation skills, Effective communication of research ideas |
| Ph.D. 799 | Doctoral Research | Core (Ongoing Research) | 45 | Independent research work, Experimentation and data collection, Literature synthesis, Thesis proposal development, Original contribution to knowledge |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FSN 707 | Nutrigenomics and Functional Foods | Major Elective (Prescribed by Advisory Committee) | 3 | Gene-nutrient interactions, Pharmacogenomics and diet, Bioactive food compounds, Prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics, Development of functional foods |
| FSN 706 | Food Quality and Safety Management | Minor/Supportive Elective (Prescribed by Advisory Committee) | 3 | HACCP principles and implementation, Foodborne pathogens and toxicology, Quality control and assurance systems, National and international food standards, Food regulatory frameworks and compliance |
| FSN 710 | Research Methods in Food Science and Nutrition | Minor/Supportive Elective (Prescribed by Advisory Committee) | 3 | Advanced experimental design, Instrumental analysis techniques, Data analysis and interpretation software, Ethical considerations in research, Scientific writing and publication |
| Ph.D. 791 | Doctoral Seminar II | Core (General Ph.D. Coursework) | 1 | Presentation of research progress, Critical review of research findings, Preparation for thesis defense, Responding to academic critiques |
| Ph.D. 799 | Doctoral Research | Core (Ongoing Research) | 45 | Advanced data collection and analysis, Manuscript preparation for publication, Thesis writing and submission, Defense of doctoral research, Contribution to the scientific community |
