Applied Bioscience (Doctoral program)
Overview
![A male student does research on aquariums in a lab](https://shared.ontariotechu.ca/shared/department/registrar/program-images/FSCI-program-images/Applied-BioScience-doctoral.jpg)
The primary objective of the Doctor of Philosophy (
Graduates are expected to have a breadth of knowledge in the life sciences, a depth of knowledge in their chosen field, and the scientific and technical skills that are essential for a career in research. It is also expected that graduates will continue to make significant contributions to the advancement of knowledge in their field and become lifelong scholars with an appreciation of the impact of science on society.
Fields
The program capitalizes on the faculty's current research expertise which is reflected in four fields. These fields are interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary in nature and require students to rely on both chemistry and biology research methods in order to answer specific research questions.
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Biomolecular Science
Biomolecular science focuses on the use of molecular and cellular tools to investigate mechanisms of cell function; new approaches for combating infectious organisms and disease; biomaterials and bio-based products; drug discovery, drug formulation and site-specific drug delivery; the mechanisms of action of pharmaceuticals at the cellular and molecular level; and the molecular and cellular aspects of the immune system in response to pathogenic and non-pathogenic micro-organisms. Research in this field occurs at the interface of biology and chemistry.
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Ecosystem Health
The field of ecosystem health focuses on determining the implications of external toxicants on the health of ecosystems, discovering indicators for environmental problems and developing methods to lessen human exposure to toxicants. In addition, researchers in the program investigate related areas such as environmental microbiology, the pathophysiology of environmental disorders and the micro and macro environmental factors causing cancer. Finally, research in the field focuses on specific environmental problems and the development of solutions that benefit Canadians.
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Forensic Bioscience
Forensic bioscience is a distinct field that combines special content areas of biological and chemical sciences with training in legal and forensic investigations. National security, bioterrorism and global pandemics are just three examples of areas in which skilled forensic bioscience workers will be in high demand in the future. For many scientists, the field of forensic bioscience crystallizes an area of research at the interface between biology, chemistry, forensic science and legal science.
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Human Health Biology
Human health biology is a field that addresses the basic understanding of human health with a particular emphasis on common human diseases, human movement science, applied physiology and respiratory illnesses. Efforts in this field concentrate on laboratory-based research that will translate into disease prevention and management, health promotion and novel therapeutic interventions. The four main areas of investigation are cancer, neuro-musculoskeletal function, exercise physiology and respiratory health. This field is further characterized by interdisciplinary research at the interface of several complementary core disciplines.
Admissions
Admissions
- Completion of a Master of Science (MSc) level degree in biology, chemistry or related area from a Canadian university, or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
- A minimum B+ average (GPA: 3.3 on a 4.3 scale or 77 to 79 per cent).
Additional requirements:
Prior to being accepted into the program, PhD applicants must be accepted by a professor who specializes in their desired area of research and who is willing to act as a supervisor.
In addition, graduates must successfully complete the PhD Graduate Seminar in Applied Bioscience, Doctoral Exit seminar and PhD Thesis Proposal and Candidacy Exam. The latter is to be completed within 18 months of entry into the PhD program and consists of a written research proposal and an oral exam.
Required supporting documents:
Please see the for a list of supporting documentation that must be submitted with your application.
Required test scores for English language proficiency:
See for the minimum required test scores for this program.
Please see for specific dates. Note that the application deadlines listed are for both the online application and all supporting documentation.
Applications for admission to all graduate studies programs are submitted online. There are five steps you must go through to complete the application process. See for step-by-step instructions.
Many of our graduate programs are extremely competitive; the number of qualified applicants normally exceeds the number of seats available for each intake. Satisfaction of minimum entry requirements does not ensure admission.
Research areas
- Biochemistry
- Cell biology
- Chemical biology
- Ecology
- Environmental toxicology
- Forensic science
- Genomics
- Immunology
- Kinesiology
- Microbiology
- Molecular biology
- Organic chemistry
- Pharmacology
- Pharmaceutical chemistry
- Physiology
Learn more about the research areas within this program and find research experts by visiting the and the university's Expert Centre.
Additional information
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Internal awards and funding
Applicants to research-based graduate programs who are studying full-time are automatically considered for some types of funding at the time of admission.
Types of funding that do not require an application:
- Entrance scholarships
- Minimum funding packages
- Teaching assistantships, research assistantships and graduate research assistantships
For more details on the above funding opportunities, see .
Please note: Part-time students are not eligible for the above funding opportunities.
External awards and funding
Graduate program applicants are encouraged to apply for to help finance their education. The application process differs for each competition, so review the information carefully to determine where and when you must apply. Please note: The majority of these awards are for domestic or permanent residents only.
Tuition fees for graduate programs are charged on a flat-fee or fee-per-credit basis and vary by program and student status.
For current, specific fees and details on flat-fee versus fee-per-credit programs, please see .
Contact the program:
Faculty of Science
905.721.3050
gradsecretary@science.ontariotechu.ca
Contact the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies:
905.721.8668 ext. 6209
gradstudies@ontariotechu.ca