Microbiology & Immunology Master's (MSc), Doctorate (PhD)

Why do your PhD in microbiology and immunology at Dal?

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You will carry out independent research leading to a significant advance of knowledge in your area of study usually leading to 2-3 lead-author publications in highly respected journals. Completion of the PhD degree generally takes 4-5 years.

Program details

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Structure

As a student in our PhD program, you will need to demonstrate the ability to carry out independent research leading to a significant advance of knowledge in your area of study. The results should be of a very high quality, usually leading to 2-3 lead-author publications in highly respected journals. Completion of the PhD degree generally takes 4-5 years.

Requirements

  • Classes: You are required to take MICI 5400 as well as any classes required by your supervisory committee, usually not more than one or two.
  • Journal Club: Attend weekly classes where you will present on cutting edge publications in your research area
  • Departmental Seminar: Attend weekly departmental seminar – minimum 80 per cent attendance
  • Seminar: Present three departmental seminars of acceptable quality
  • Thesis and oral examination: Produce an acceptable thesis and defend it successfully

Choosing a supervisor

After you apply to the department of microbiology and immunology and before you have received an acceptance, we encourage you to visit the department or start an email correspondence with faculty members whose research interests you.

Find a research supervisor

  • Discuss ideas and projects with prospective supervisors
  • Ask faculty for descriptions of possible research projects
  • Write to the Graduate Secretary for general information

PhD thesis defence

Once your research thesis is complete you will make a 20 minute public oral presentation of your work. You will then have an opportunity to defend your thesis by answering questions asked by the examining committee.

Important dates

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