Ph.D. in Life Sciences

Overview

The Ph.D. in Biotechnology at Mahindra University is designed to nurture innovative researchers who can address global challenges in health, agriculture, environment, and industry through cutting-edge biotechnological solutions. Housed within the Centre for Life Sciences (CLS), the program encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating molecular biology, bioinformatics, synthetic biology and bioprocess technology among many other domains.

The program structure includes coursework, comprehensive examination, and original research culminating in a doctoral dissertation. It aligns with UGC and Mahindra University Ph.D. regulations and emphasizes high academic rigor, scientific integrity, and translational impact.

The Ph.D. graduates are expected to achieve following the outcomes after the completion of degree:

  • Scientific and Technical Proficiency
    Proficiency of advanced biotechnological tools and techniques.
    Design and execution of research projects with analytical rigor and reproducibility.
  • Data Analysis and Bioinformatics
    Competence in computational biology, statistical data interpretation, and high-throughput data analysis.
  • Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
    Ability to critically evaluate scientific literature and formulate novel research questions. Skilled in developing innovative solutions to real-world challenges in health, agriculture, or environment.
  • Scholarly Communication
    Proficient in scientific writing for peer-reviewed publications, patents, and grant proposals. Effective oral presentation skills for diverse audiences including academic, industry, and public stakeholders.
  • Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Integration
    Experience working in interdisciplinary teams, integrating knowledge from biology, chemistry, engineering, and data science. Ability to collaborate across sectors including academia, industry, and policy.
  • Ethical and Responsible Research Conduct
    Deep understanding of research ethics, biosafety, intellectual property rights, and responsible data management. Commitment to transparency, sustainability, and societal impact in research.
  • Academic and Teaching Preparedness
    Exposure to pedagogy and curriculum design through teaching assistantships or workshops. Capability to mentor undergraduate and postgraduate students in lab and classroom settings.

Key Differentiators:

  • Interdisciplinary Focus
    Integrates biotechnology with computational biology, systems biology, and data science to address complex biological problems.

  • Research-Driven with Translational Impact
    Strong emphasis on research that translates into patents, products, and publications with societal relevance.
  • State-of-the-Art Research Facilities
    Access to advanced labs equipped for genomics, proteomics, imaging, cell culture, and high end instrumentation.
  • Industry and International Collaborations
    Opportunities to collaborate with global biotech companies and academic partners for joint research and internships.
  • Entrepreneurship and Innovation Support
    Access to the university’s innovation ecosystem, incubation support, and mentorship for biotech start-up ideas.
  • Mentorship from Faculties
    Work under the guidance of experienced faculty with diverse research expertise and international training.
  • Curriculum Aligned with National Missions
    Research themes align with DBT, DST, ICMR priorities, and India’s National Biotechnology Development Strategy.
  • Holistic Research Training
    Includes grant writing, research ethics, science communication, and teaching assistantships for well-rounded development.
  • Sustainability and SDG Alignment
    Focus on biotechnology solutions that contribute to health, food security, and environmental sustainability goals.

Specializations

  • Genomics
  • Immuno-technology
  • m-RNA therapeutics
  • Host-Pathogen Interactions
  • Plant Metabolic Engineering
  • Genetic Disorders
  • Cancer Biomarkers
  • Gene Therapy
  • Bioprocess Technology
  • Food Processing & Nutrition
  • Agri-Biotech
  • Precision therapeutics
  • Nanobiotherapeutics
  • Biomedical devices