DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN SCIENCE

Our Doctor of Philosophy in Science is a research-based programme that offers an immersive research experience for those driven by a passion for discovery. As a doctoral candidate in the School of Biosciences, you'll collaborate with esteemed faculty members who are leading experts in their respective fields. 

Each intake welcomes a select cohort of students, maintaining a rigorous and personalised supervision process. Whether your focus is biotechnology, environmental science, molecular biology, or beyond, our faculty provides invaluable insights, mentoring your growth as an impactful researcher. 

Duration

3 to 6-year (Full Time)
4 to 8-year (Part Time)
Study options

Full Time or Part Time

Our PhD in Science programme is designed to develop graduates who possess a wide range of competencies. We are committed to equipping you with the skills and abilities to synthesise knowledge, adapt practical skills, conduct independent research, demonstrate leadership qualities, and critically appraise problems using scientific skills.

Throughout your studies, you will engage in advanced studies and research that will enable you to synthesise existing knowledge in your field of study. We emphasise the importance of staying abreast of the latest developments and trends in your discipline, allowing you to contribute to the expansion of knowledge in your area of expertise.

Note: All information is subject to change. Readers are responsible for verifying information that pertains to them by contacting the university.

Research Methodology

In their first year, students must complete the following modules (totalling 6 credit hours): Research Method for Science and either Qualitative Research Methods or Quantitative Research Methods.

Key Research Areas

At Taylor's University, we believe research can help shape the future. Our postgraduate research programmes cover a broad range of topics with the aim to help shape the future in the aspects of society, technology, economy, and environment.

Infectious Disease

The rich biodiversity of Malaysia enables the discovery of novel compounds to fight infectious diseases. At Taylor's University, the identified natural compounds will be examined for their bioactive properties as well as their mode of action. In addition to the antimicrobial research, the host-pathogen interaction research is focused to understand the disease manifestation in host cells.

Non-Communicable Diseases

Diet, smoking, alcohol consumption, a sedentary lifestyle and stress have contributed to greater incidences of heart disease, respiratory disease, diabetes and cancer, among others. Available drugs for these diseases are often accompanied by undesirable side effects, not selective enough or simply too expensive. Hence, this cluster targets the discovery of novel lead compounds and to scientifically validate natural remedies for lifestyle-related chronic diseases.

Environmental Research

Research conducted in this cluster focuses in bioremediation, taxonomic identification of marine flora and to facilitate the development of mechanisms or processes that are in compliance with environmental laws. It will target improvement in resources savings, waste disposal and resolving environmental stress issues. In addition, researchers in this cluster also provide consultation and training in environmental management systems.

Food Science And Nutrition

The broader aim of research in this cluster is to study the fundamentals and applied aspects of new functional foods, medical foods and nutraceuticals as well as new technologies that facilitate development of novel consumer products that enhance human health, food safety and functionality.

FUTURE CAREERS

When you've successfully completed this Doctor of Philosophy in Science programme, you could embark on any of these exciting careers, including:

• Pharmaceutical Scientist
• Biotech Specialist
• Clinical Researcher
• Environmental Consultant
• Data Analyst
• Academia
• R&D Manager
• Regulatory Affairs

We offered two entry pathway for this PhD programme, which is normal mode and prior to publication mode. Our PhD by Prior Publication mode provides a unique pathway for you to achieve a Doctoral award based on your existing body of work. We recognise the value of your prior publications and include them as a significant part of your submission for the Doctoral award.

Normal Mode

Master's Degree

Masters in the field of Science; OR

Bachelor's Degree

Passed Bachelor's degree in Science with min. CGPA 3.67 and registered as a Masters candidate and passed related qualifying assessment

Other equivalent qualifications

Any other equivalent qualification recognised by the Malaysian Government or accepted by the Taylor's University Senate and any of condition of the above would require student's research proposal to be approved.

English Requirement for international students: IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL 60 (Internet Based Test) (May join IEN preparatory course and achieve the IELTS score) The validity of the IELTS or equivalent is within 2 years from the date of the examination.

Notes:

[1] Bachelor's degree in Science candidates who are registered for master's degree programmes in Science may apply to convert to the doctoral degree programmes subjected to the following conditions:
 

• Within 1 year for full time and within 2 years for part-time candidates;
• Having shown competency and capability in conducting research at doctoral level through rigorous internal evaluation.
• Approval of the Taylor's University Senate.

[2] All information is subject to change. The above entry requirements serve as a guideline. Readers are responsible to verify the information by contacting the university's Admissions Department.

STUDENT PASS / VISA REQUIREMENTS (INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS)

All international students who plan to study full-time in Malaysia are required to obtain a Student Pass (Student Visa) before starting their studies.

• You must receive an official Offer Letter from the university before applying for a student pass

• The university will submit your Student Pass application through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) on your behalf

• A Visa Approval Letter (VAL / eVAL) is required before travelling to Malaysia

• Studying on a tourist or social visit visa is not permitted

• Your passport must be valid for at least 18 months from your intended intake date

• Visa processing time depends on EMGS and Malaysian Immigration approval

• After arriving in Malaysia, all students must complete a medical check-up at an EMGS-registered clinic

• Your Student Pass will be issued only after medical clearance and document verification

• Continuing students must renew their Student Pass before it expires

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR STUDENT PASS APPLICATION

The following documents are commonly required for all international students:

• Valid passport (clear scanned copy of all pages, including blank pages)

• Passport-size photograph with a white background

• Official Offer Letter from the university

• Academic certificates and transcripts related to your programme

• English language proficiency certificate (IELTS / TOEFL or equivalent), if required

• Proof of acceptance or tuition fee payment (if requested by the university)

• Student Pass / Visa processing fee as determined by EMGS

• Completed EMGS Health Declaration Form (if applicable)

Please note: All documents not originally in English must be submitted together with certified English translations.

ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS (IF APPLICABLE)

Some students may be asked to provide extra documents depending on their situation:

• Release Letter and Visa Cancellation Letter (for students transferring from another institution in Malaysia)

• School Leaving Certificate (for foundation or diploma applicants)

• Sponsorship or Scholarship Letter (if your studies are funded)

• Proof of financial support to cover tuition fees and living expenses

• Statutory Declaration (if there are name differences across documents)

• Resume or Character Reference Letter (commonly required for applicants above 23 years old)

• Police Clearance Certificate (if requested by EMGS or embassy authorities)

• Copy of previous Malaysian visa or Resident Pass (if applicable)

AFTER ARRIVING IN MALAYSIA

Once you arrive in Malaysia, you will need to:

• Complete a medical examination at an EMGS-approved clinic

• Submit your passport for Student Pass endorsement

• Receive a temporary Special Pass (if applicable) while your Student Pass is being processed

• Collect your Student Pass and complete university registration

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

• Student Pass requirements are set by Malaysian Immigration and EMGS and may vary by nationality
• The university’s International Office will guide you through each step of the process
• Students are strongly advised to prepare documents at least 2–3 months before intake
• Requirements may change, so always follow the latest instructions provided by the university