PhD programme

PhD in Biosciences

Bodø

As a PhD candidate, you conduct scientific research in aquatic and terrestrial fields, participating in a dynamic, industry-oriented research environment.

See study plan Structure/topics

Programme description

The doctoral programme in Biosciences is the study of structure, function and biological role of biomolecules and living organisms. Biosciences at FBA covers basic and applied research in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, encompassing technological development within aquaculture, animal husbandry, biomedicine and biotechnology, bio-resources, and bioeconomy. The PhD programme aims to expand the frontiers of knowledge within the context of maintaining sustainability in the ‘blue’ and ‘green’ segments of biosciences and to explore the boundaries in molecular biosciences through the advances in technology for the benefit of humanity.

Career opportunities

Research projects are designed to advance the science and provide training in professional skills and theoretical knowledge that would ultimately enable a PhD candidate to work in research, academia, government, industry and private sector. The degree holders can contribute to the society either theoretically, methodologically or contextually, taking advantage of the knowledge and transferable skills acquired through the programme. A doctoral degree in Biosciences enables the graduate to be attractive for positions within academic or non-academic research environments, relevant knowledge-based sectors in the industry, or in administration and decision-making bodies, which confirms the societal relevance of the programme.

1. Qualification
The Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture (FBA) welcomes applicants who have successfully completed their master's degree (120 ECTS) in biosciences or biosciences-related disciplines, which is relevant to the theme of the proposed research project, with a minimum average grade B (or its international accepted equivalence) or better.

Industry and public funded candidates can apply for admission, provided they have the necessary qualifications. International self-financed students are normally not accepted, but applicants with documented funding from governmental or non-governmental bodies will be considered for admission. Such candidates should contact the faculty’s PhD administration for further information regarding their eligibility for admission.

2. Financial Capacity
In order to be admitted to the PhD programme applicants must be able to source financing for the entire period of the doctoral studies (3 years). Possible funding sources may be a PhD fellow position financed by the Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture, if available, and other external sources, e.g. from the home country. Private funding (e.g. own or family's financial resources) does not normally qualify for admission to the PhD programme. Documented funding from research fellowship positions, scholarships or governmental/business bodies is required.

Particularly about PhD fellowship positions:
PhD research fellow positions at our faculty are generally fully funded for three years. These PhD positions are linked to a specific research project. Successful applicants for this position will be offered employment to enter the PhD programme in Biosciences. Available research fellow positions funded by the Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture will be announced on the university's website: https://www.nord.no/en/about/vacancies

Please check the Regulations for the doctor of philosophy degree at Nord University, including the Supplementary guidelines for the PhD in Biosciencesfor more detailed information on admission requirements for the PhD programme.

Doctoral education at the Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture is internationally oriented. Candidates are expected to contribute to international conferences and publish in international peer-reviewed journals.

Based on the nature of the research project, you will complete part of your studies abroad, either in the form of prolonged research stays/visits at international institutions or by completing some of your courses abroad.

PhD is the highest form of academic education offered, and signifies the conclusion of studies.

The erudition of the candidate completing a PhD degree at the Faculty will be on par with the national standards. Candidates who are adjudged as qualified for the Doctoral degree in Biosciences at Nord is expected to possess the knowledge, skill and general competency in the particular field of science.
The learning outcomes are maintained on the standards stipulated by the Norwegian Agency forQuality Assurance in Education (NOKUT; regulations on the supervision and control of the quality of Norwegian higher education "Tilsynsforskriften" § 4.2.)

Knowledge:
The candidate

- is at the forefront of knowledge within the academic field of biosciences and masters the field´s philosophy of science and methods required to answer questions arising in the pursuit of science

- must be capable of judging the implications of the research methods and processes chosen, including the ethical elements when relevant, in the quest of knowledge in biosciences

- should be proficient in biosciences and can develop new knowledge, theories, methods, elucidations, forms of documentation, and communication within their area of expertise

Skills:
The candidate

- can develop new research questions and topics for scholarly work in the field of biosciences, perform research meticulously, systematically, and timely to obtain the right answers

- can plan and conduct research fairly and righteously to achieve the set goals and obtain answers that are at the highest levels of international standards

- can solve complex academic questions and challenge established knowledge and practice within specific areas of biosciences

- can maintain scientific integrity while generating information relevant to society

- understand the value of nature and the importance of biosciences as a tool to appreciate it in its entirety

General competencies:
The candidate

- should be competent to manage and undertake assignments, projects and complex interdisciplinary tasks, individually and collaboratively when demanded

- can recognize ethical issues, new and otherwise, when performing research, disseminating and communicating knowledge, and be guided by strong moral principles that reflect the candidate's scholarship

- should be able to disseminate and communicate research through appropriate national and international channels to ensure knowledge-sharing with stakeholders and community at large

- can engage in debates on topics in biosciences in relevant forums

- can promote pluralism of cultural values and diversity of thought important in discourses to further our understanding in the field of biosciences

- can realize the importance of innovation to carry out novel research that aids the progression of human thinking and well-being, with minimal footprint on nature, and to align with the UN sustainable development goals.

- shares knowledge and protects it where necessary following internationally accepted guidelines and regulations