Doctor of Philosophy in Biology

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biology programme aims to produce graduates equipped to become expert research scientists with the necessary advanced research and critical thinking skills to contribute nationally and globally to developments in biological sciences. Graduates will become experts and competent scientists who are able to synthesise and apply knowledge via innovative scientific research, to solve problems and implement creative solutions in academic and industrial research in life sciences and allied interdisciplinary areas.

Specifically, the programme equips graduates with strong foundation in science and advanced research skills that will enable graduates to critically think, apply and synthesise the concepts in the field of biology. Besides, it trains students to utilise scientific methods in solving problems while adhering to professional, moral and ethical principles in science. It also develops graduates to become effective communicators who are able to work independently as well as in multidisciplinary teams and display strong cognitive skills (i.e., analysis, synthesis and creativity) in advanced scientific research. Lastly, it produces graduates who are lifelong learners with effective leadership, entrepreneurial and information management skills.

The school has an experienced and dedicated team of academicians and researchers to mentor candidates along research journey. Research monitoring and guidance will be conducted in an exclusive, one-to-one manner and supervisors will be on hand to support candidates throughout the duration of the programme. The students will also be exposed to research activities like workshop, symposium or conference organised by the school or in partnership with other schools or institutions. Prior to enrolment, prospective candidates will have to consult Sunway’s qualified and experienced supervisors to ascertain the area of research.

Master’s Degree

A Master’s degree in biological sciences discipline or related fields that is accepted by University Senate.

Other Qualifications

Any other qualifications will be considered on a case-to-case basis and subject to the approval and acceptance by the University Senate.

English Language Requirements

Any of the following

• IELTS 6.0 or equivalent
• TOEFL 550 (paper-based), 213 (computer-based), or 80 (internet-based)
• PTE Academic 50 overall (minimum 46 in each skill)

For International/Malaysian applicants
English is the medium of instruction of previous degree for candidates from universities in non-English speaking countries outside Malaysia.

Modules

• Research Methodology
• Research Ethics and Biological Safety
• Research Thesis

Thesis

The PhD is awarded based on the successful completion of a thesis. The thesis should demonstrate proficiency, criticality and mastery in the subject or chosen area of research.

Areas of Research

The School and Department of Biological Sciences has a dedicated team of academicians and researchers who are able to supervise in the following  areas of research interests, but not limited to:

• Allergy and immunology
• Bioinformatics
• Cancer Biology
• Cell Biology
• Ecology and conservation
• Infectious diseases
• Molecular biology and genetics
• Molecular biochemistry
• Molecular pharmacology and therapeutics
• Neurobiology and neurodegenerative diseases