PhD Biochemistry: Course Detail, Colleges, Eligibility, Admission, Fellowships, & Career Options

• Updated on  Aug 16, 2025, by Dharti Bhadla

PhD Biochemistry is a research-oriented Doctorate course that can be pursued after MSc Biochemistry, Microbiology, or another equivalent branch. The course deals with research and development in areas like biochemical processes in living organisms, the effect of chemicals on various body organs, genetic, cellular metabolism, etc.

 

A PhD in Biochemistry is the first step to dive into research or an academic career. It generally takes 3 to 5 years to complete, depending on the type of research, the learning ability of the candidate, and the research facility at the institute. PhD Biochemistry admission requires qualifying entrance exams such as GATE, UGC-NET, CSIR-UGC-NET, DBT, ICMR, etc. The average salary offered to a PhD Biochemistry graduate is INR 4 to 10 LPA, which further increases with enriched experience.

 

Table of Contents
  1. PhD in Biochemistry Course Highlights
  2. What is PhD in Biochemistry?
  3. Why pursue a PhD in Biochemistry?
  4. Who Should Pursue PhD in Biochemistry?
  5. PhD in Biochemistry Eligibility Criteria
  6. PhD in Biochemistry Entrance Exams
  7. PhD in Biochemistry Admission Process
  8. PhD in Biochemistry Top Colleges in India
  9. PhD in Biochemistry Syllabus
  10. PhD in Biochemistry Fellowships in India
  11. Career Options after a PhD in Biochemistry
  12. PhD in Biochemistry Vs PhD in Biotechnology
  13. PhD in Biochemistry FAQs

 

PhD in Biochemistry Course Highlights

A PhD in Biochemistry helps develop research skills through extensive experimentation with biological samples. The complete details of the course is given below:

Details

Particulars

Programme name

Doctor of Philosophy in Biochemistry

Duration

3 to 5 years

Admission

Entrance exam-based

 

UGC NET, SET, GATE, CSIR NET, ICMR, DBT, University-level exam

Eligibility

55% in MSc or MPhil and passing the entrance exam, followed by a personal interview. `

Fellowship

PMFDR, TIFR, SHODH, ICSSR, Lady Tata, ICMR, GSBTM/DST-SERB JRF, etc.

Course Fee

Government Institutes: INR 15,000 to 30,000

 

Private Institutes: INR 4 to 5 Lakhs

Average salary

INR 5 to 20 LPA

Top Recruiting Sectors

Drug Manufacturing Companies, Public Health Entities, Cancer Research Institutes, Research Departments, Educational Institutes, Environmental Pollution Control

Job Positions

Analytical Chemist, Biomedical Scientist, Healthcare Scientist, Clinical Biochemist, Clinical Research Associate, Forensic Scientist, Physician Associate, Research Scientist

 

What is PhD in Biochemistry?

A PhD in Biochemistry is a doctoral research degree that deals with the study of chemical processes and molecular mechanisms of living organisms.

  • It places a focus on both advanced coursework and intensive laboratory research that includes: protein structure and function, molecular biology, genetics, bioinformatics, and biochemistry of different organisms.
  • The candidates do original research that adds new knowledge or sees new insights in the area and ends in a dissertation.
  • The course is normally a 3-5 year research program that requires solid expertise in biochemistry or a comparable major.
  • Students take up jobs in teaching, research institutes, academia, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and healthcare, as well as the health sector.

 

Why pursue a PhD in Biochemistry?

Pursuing a Biochemistry PhD improves problem-solving, decision-making, and observational skills. It offers a promising career in Drug manufacturing industries, universities, and research centers. One can obtain government fellowships amounting up to INR 60,000.

  • Creating New Knowledge: As a PhD student, one works on novel research problems for human/animal/environment welfare. This contributes to the existing knowledge in these fields. It helps further the development of the field and benefits society.
  • Professional Development: The rigorous training and research experience gained during a PhD program fosters professional growth and development.
  • Analytical and Critical Thinking: A PhD program emphasizes the development of analytical and critical thinking skills that prepare the learner for industrial and research careers.

 

Who Should Pursue PhD in Biochemistry?

A Biochemistry PhD is best suited to students who have a major interest in scientific research, molecular and cell biology, and the study of Microbiology and Biochemistry at a fundamental level.

  • It is appropriate for people who wish to become autonomous researchers, teachers of colleges, biotechnologists, or scientists in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sector.
  • The candidates who have done their graduation or Post-graduation, such as MSc Biotechnology, MSc Biochemistry, etc., can opt for this course.
  • This higher degree will be of benefit to candidates interested in the study of cellular mechanisms, disease pathways, drug development, and novelty in biotechnology.
  • It would also cater to people devoted to the long-run research careers with well-developed abilities of analysis, experimentation, and critical thinking. Management opportunities in science, teaching, industry, and professional modules also become available to the program.

 

PhD in Biochemistry Eligibility Criteria

To get registered in Biochemistry PhD, one needs to qualify the minimum eligbility requirements in general and also of the college, which are given below:

  • Students who completed MSc Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or other biological streams are eligible for a PhD in Biochemistry.
  • Candidates with an MPhil in Microbiology or related degree can also apply. However, it is not mandatory to have such a degree for a PhD.

 

PhD in Biochemistry Entrance Exams

Here is the list of entrance exams that the candidates need to appear for to opt for the Biochemistry PhD course.

Exams

Registration

Exam Dates

Cut-off

CSIR-UGC NET

May 2026

July 2026

UR: 92.5 Percentile

 

EWS: 88 Percentile

 

OBC: 88 Percentile

 

SC: 75.72 Percentile

 

ST: 74 Percentile

 

PwD: 74 Percentile

GATE

Oct 2025

Jan 2026

General category: 31.3 marks

 

OBC/EWS category: 28.1 marks

 

SC/ST/PwD category: 20.8 marks

 

PhD in Biochemistry Admission Process

PhD Biochemistry admission is based on the cut-off marks scored in the entrance exam. The PhD Biochemistry admission process at BHU is given below.

 

Step 1: The candidates need to appear for the UGC NET/ CSIR NET exam in order to begin the admission process at BHU.

 

Step 2: Applicants should fill out the form via the BHU admission portal, submitting their NET score and other such documents.

 

Step 3: Following the online application, successfully selected candidates will have to attend a viva voice (oral interview) and provide a full proposal on their research idea.

 

Step 4: The final selection is done based on the candidate's score on the NET and on viva voice.

 

Step 5: The merit list will be published, and selected candidates will be called for the document verification process.

 

Step 6: The candidates need to visit the campus for the document verification, and once done, they have to pay the course fee to confirm their admission.

 

Post selection, candidates will be asked to choose the research supervisor based on their area, vacancy, funding, and research facilities.

 

PhD in Biochemistry Top Colleges in India

There are several colleges, research centers, diagnostic centers, and universities that offer PhD Biochemistry courses. Some of the best institutes are tabulated below.

Name of College

NIRF Ranking

Average Annual Course Fee

AIIMS

1st (medical university)

2,045

Indian Institute of Science (IISc)

2nd (overall)

35,200

Indian Agricultural Research Institute

4th

29,500

Delhi University

6th (university category)

-

Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

10th (overall)

8,368

PDPIAS, CHARUSAT

22nd (institute category)

2,00,000

Gujarat University

94th

25,000

Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad University

151-200

1,00,000

Nirma University

151-200

3,00,000

 

PhD in Biochemistry Syllabus

PhD Biochemistry is a research-based degree programme focused on experimental working model and thesis writing.

Discipline Specific Courses

Instrumentation

Techniques in Plant Sciences

LabWork

Research Theme Specific Courses (Any One)

Biofertilizer Technology

Biodiversity and its Conservation

Remote Sensing and GIS

Cyanobacterial Biotechnology

Research Theme Specific Courses (Any One)

Air Pollution and Climate Change

Photobiology and Molecular Biology of Cyanobacteria

Plant Pathology and Plant Protection

Plant Cell and Tissue Culture

Conservation and Restoration Ecology

Stress Biology and Molecular Genetics of Cyanobacteria

Applied Phycology

Environmental and Applied Microbiology

Water Pollution Management

Microbial Genetics and Biotechnology

 

PhD in Biochemistry Fellowships in India

PhD Biochemistry students can obtain fellowships by applying to various categories such as;

  • Single Girl Child Fellowship
  • Lady Tata Memorial
  • ICMR JRF
  • SHODH
  • DST JRF
  • PMFDR
  • CSIR NET/JRF
  • University-level fellowship

The amount of fellowship varies among these various schemes. It generally ranges between INR 15,000 to 70,000 per month. Some government funding agencies also provide fellowships to the project fellows working on funded projects. For instance, GSBTM, DST-SERB, ICMR, CSIR, etc.

 

Career Options after a PhD in Biochemistry

A person with a PhD in biochemistry can either work in the research industry or academia. Also, there is a great opportunity to work with diagnostic research centres as well as Disease research centers.

Career Option

Description

Average Salary (INR)

Research Scientist

Conducts experiments and studies in biochemistry, molecular biology, and related fields

12,00,000 per annum

Clinical Laboratory Technologist

Performs diagnostic tests and research on biological samples in medical laboratories

4,80,000 per annum

Biochemistry Educator

Teaches biochemistry at undergraduate or postgraduate levels and contributes to academic research

9,65,000 per annum

Medical Research Scientist

Works on clinical research, developing new medical treatments and advancing therapeutic practices

4,00,000 per annum

Senior Scientist

Oversees research projects, mentors junior scientists, and drives innovation in research organizations

8,00,000 per annum

Molecular Biologist

Studies molecular processes and biomolecules fundamental to life

5,00,000 per annum

Clinical Biochemist

Develops medications and therapies based on biochemical research

4,00,000 per annum

Lecturer/Professor

Teaches and conducts research in universities and colleges

9,00,000 per annum

 

PhD in Biochemistry Vs PhD in Biotechnology

PhD Biochemistry is oriented to know more on molecular chemistry of the living organisms, and therefore, it would be appropriate in the fields relating to research and academia. PhD Biotechnology deals with applying the knowledge of biology through innovation with the use of technology to produce tangible products and solutions.

Feature

PhD Biochemistry

PhD Biotechnology

Overview

Study of chemical processes and molecular mechanisms in living organisms, focusing on biomolecules, their functions, and interactions

Application of technology in biological systems to develop new products or processes using living organisms

Qualification

Doctorate of Philosophy in Biochemistry

Doctorate of Philosophy in Biotechnology

Duration

Typically 3-5 years

Typically 3-5 years

Eligibility

Master’s degree in Biochemistry or related field, as MSc Medical Biochemistry with minimum 55% marks or equivalent CGPA

Master’s degree in Biotechnology or related field, MPhil Biotechnology with minimum 55% marks or equivalent CGPA

Course Objective

Research-focused program studying microbiology, molecular biology, bio-organic chemistry, genetics

Research-based program focusing on biology applied to technology, including genetic engineering and industrial biotech processes

Course Content

Genetics, forensics, stem cell research, bioethics, microbial science, enzymology, immunology

Genetic engineering, cell culture, molecular biology, bioprocess technology, fermentation, recombinant DNA technology

Average Salary (INR)

4,00,000 - 20,00,000

4,00,000 - 20,00,000

Job Roles

Analytical Chemist, Biomedical Scientist, Clinical Biochemist, Research Scientist, Toxicologist

Biotech Research Scientist, Bioinformatics Analyst, Bioprocess Engineer, Clinical Researcher, Biomanufacturing Specialist

Focus Area

Understanding biochemical processes and mechanisms underlying life and disease

Developing and applying biotechnological products and processes for healthcare, agriculture, and industry

 

PhD in Biochemistry FAQs

Is it compulsory to publish research papers for a PhD in Biochemistry admission?

No, it is not a compulsory eligibility criterion. However, those having some good publications get first preference during the selection process.

Can I work in the forensic department after a PhD in Biochemistry?

Yes, in a forensic laboratory, some investigations are conducted using principles of biochemistry. Therefore, an expert in the biochemistry domain is required during criminal investigations.

How can I apply for a government fellowship?

One has to submit an application, a research proposal, and attend an exam and an interview as the selection process. Upon selection, an individual gets the fellowship every month.

Is it worth doing a PhD in Biochemistry?

PhD in Biochemistry is a good option to those who are interested in scientific research, innovations, and in-depth research at the molecular level on living organisms. The career which is attained by the degree has high-level positions in academic institutions, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, health care, and government research centers. Not only does it equip the individual with specialized knowledge, but also with critical thinking, problem-solving and technical skills that are much treasured in science and industry.

What is the scope of PhD in Biochemistry?

A Ph.D. in biochemistry has a broad scope in the life sciences and biotechnology. The graduates work in the research laboratories, pharmaceutical and health industries, biotechnology companies, and colleges. They venture in drug development, genetic research, clinical research, environmental science as well as agricultural advancement. Careers expected out of the degree include research scientists, lecturers, clinical biochemists, pharmacologists and biotechnologies.

Do biochemists need a PhD?

A PhD is not always required by all biochemists, but having one can greatly increase career prospects, particularly in those job opportunities that are more research- and academic-oriented. The entry-level position in laboratories, quality control and pharmaceutical manufacturing may accept a bachelor or a master degree. To do independent research, however, or hold other management work or to teach in universities, a PhD may frequently be necessary.

Do I need to qualify for he national entrance exam to get admission to a PhD?

No, it is not compulsory to qualify for the national entrance exam for PhD Biochemistry admission, as most universities conduct their entrance test. However, nationally qualified candidates are exempt from this and can apply directly to any institute. Students are advised to check the admission guidelines of the institute of choice.

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