Doctoral Program (PhD) in Biochemistry

The PhD program in Biochemistry is open to holders of master (MSc) degrees, MD and MBBS subject to English proficiency tests, as well as other screening procedures. The latter would include a departmental interview and, in some cases, a qualifying oral examination. The program is based primarily on research, with the addition of limited coursework where deficiencies are identified by the Thesis Supervisory Committee (TSC). It includes at least three years of full-time supervised research and will also include the presentation of a detailed thesis proposal, and at least two seminars. Research includes genetics of single gene disorders, polygenic disease such as diabetes mellitus, obesity, inborn errors of metabolism and malaria parasites. Lipid metabolism, nutrition and antioxidant projects are also offered. Candidates are required to register on a full-time basis, and pay annual fees, which might be supported from a faculty member’s research grant or scholarship. In addition to national students, international students are encouraged to enroll in the programs. At successful completion of the program, PhD students are required to produce a thesis containing original work of suitable merit that demonstrates their command of the relevant research methodology and ability to undertake independent research.