A PhD program in Zoology is a doctoral program. The PhD zoology duration usually ranges between 3 and 6 years. The program focuses on areas of zoology such as animal physiology, ecology, symbolism, genetics, and biodiversity. Applicants must have a master's degree in Zoology or an equivalent field with at least 55% marks. Candidates must have valid entrance tests score in UGC NET, CSIR NET, etc.
Individuals with a PhD in Zoology have several career choices ranging from teaching to wildlife conservation, environmental consultancy, and biotechnology firms. Graduates may also end up doing zoology, wildlife biology, conservation, forensic analysis, and research. A PhD Zoology salary generally ranges from INR 3 to 12 LPA, depending on the job profile and years of experience.
PhD in Zoology Course Highlights
The basic details of a PhD in Zoology are as follows:
What is a PhD in Zoology?
The PhD in Zoology program helps students to learn about the scientific study and understanding of animals in society, including structure, classification, development, behavior, and interaction with the environment. The candidates will be enabled to study classical and modern aspects of animal diversity through molecular biology, bioinformatics, biotechnology, and medical diagnostics, so that various trends in animal life manifestations can be understood. Careers after completing the doctorate in Zoology would include teaching in higher academic institutions, working in zoological research institutes, NGOs concerned with wildlife conservation, environment consultancy, and several other roles where the grip of animal biology and ecology becomes extremely useful.
Why Study a PhD in Zoology?
A few reasons to pursue a PhD in Zoology are mentioned below:
- The program enables students to develop a deep understanding of animal biology, their behaviour, genetics, etc.
- A PhD in Zoology graduate can contribute to wildlife conservation and provide sustainable environmental solutions.
- Acquired skills serve as highly transferable intellects: critical thinking, data analytics, scientific writing, and communication, opening an array of options in other careers.
- Opportunities are present for one to grow in recognition as a rewarding researcher, university professor, conservationist, wildlife consultant, or policy specialist in governments, NGOs, or corporations.
- Changing environmental policy, educating the future generation, extending meaningful scientific discoveries, and enhancing the understanding of the natural world.
PhD in Zoology Eligibility Criteria
Students should have the following eligibility to take admission in PhD Zoology:
- The candidates must have a master's degree in a related field, and a minimum grade of 55%.
- Candidates should have cleared entrance exams like CSIR-NET, UGC-NET and CUET.
PhD in Zoology Admission Process
The PhD in Zoology admission process is similar in most institutions; however, the admission process at LPU is mentioned below:
- One should visit the official LPU website and register on the admission portal by entering the necessary information, such as name, email, and mobile number.
- The online application for the PhD in Zoology should now be completed. Attach the required documents and submit the application fee.
- Book your slot for LPUNEST, and then appear for the computer-based entrance examination.
- Shortlisted candidates according to LPUNEST scores are called for the personal interview, where a weightage of 30% is given to the selection process.
- Final selection will be based on the combined performance in the LPUNEST (70%) and the interview (30%).
PhD in Zoology Entrance Exams
Some of the popular entrance exams for a PhD in Zoology include CSIR-NET, UGC-NET and CUET.
Top Colleges in India for PhD in Zoology
Some of the top colleges for PhD Zoology based on the NIRF Ranking 2024 are as follows:
PhD in Zoology Syllabus
The PhD in Zoology syllabus covers topics like Environmental Biology, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Genetics and Molecular Biology, etc. The core focus remains the same for most institutes; however, the table shows the topics covered at the University of Kerala for the PhD Zoology program:
PhD in Zoology Jobs
The basic details of jobs after PhD in Zoology are as follows:
- Industry: A PhD in Zoology can lead to jobs in research and academia or related fields.
- Employment Demand: A PhD in Zoology is in high demand, offering jobs like Zoologist, Wildlife Biologist, University Professor, Researcher and Marine Biologist.
- Average Salary: The average salary after PhD Zoology varies depending on experience, industry, and location. The average salary is between INR 6- 12 lakhs per annum.
There are various job roles available for PhD holders in Zoology. As per Payscale, the average package of various job roles according to the years of experience is mentioned in the table below:
PhD in Zoology FAQs
What is the primary focus of the PhD course program in Zoology?
A PhD in Zoology is quite deeply concerned with animals- their behavior, evolution, and interactions with the environment. For most of the time, you will be doing original research, taking action on data, and reporting your findings, thereby extending the knowledge of the animal kingdom.
What main research areas or specialisations are in PhD Zoology?
In Phd Zoology, one can focus on Animal physiology, marine biology, wildlife conservation, or entomology (the study of insects), which are popular fields of specialisation among most students. From the rescue of an endangered species to understanding the genetics of animals or ecosystems, your research could focus on all sorts of themes.
What job options can one get after a PhD in Zoology?
A PhD in Zoology opens a lot of doors to interesting professions. You may become an instructor at a university, a wildlife biologist, or work with conservation groups. Some graduates found their niches in museums, aquariums, or even pharmaceutical companies- anywhere your expertise in animal science is valued.
