PhD program
The Drug Discovery Biology (DDB) doctoral program is conducted in a world class scientific environment to ensure our graduates are not only specialists in their chosen scientific field, but also have an understanding of diverse topics, techniques and practices relevant to drug discovery.
Our doctorate is a four-year program. The first year includes an advanced course in drug discovery to provide students a strong grounding in biomedical research. First year PhD candidates will undergo three rotational research projects (6-week duration), prior to final project and thesis supervisor selection. Rotations will allow students to explore diverse research areas and make an informed choice of their final area of research and supervisor selection prior to commencement of their three-year doctorate project. Rotations will also foster cross-disciplinary research between different laboratories and research areas within DDB.
During year one, DDB students will complete all coursework requirements for the Advanced Course in Drug Discovery and Development, allowing students three uninterrupted years to complete their thesis project. Guidance on selection of rotations and final thesis project/supervisor(s) will be provided by an independent academic mentor.
Candidate selection
We are committed to attracting the best candidates to the DDB Doctoral Program. Accordingly, we encourage applications by outstanding candidates from preeminent Australian and international institutions. To enter into the DDB Doctoral Program, candidates will need to meet Monash University’s eligibility requirements. Additional criteria for entry into the program includes:
- outstanding academic transcript(s) and CV,
- supporting letters of recommendation,
- exceptional performance on interviews.
How to apply
For entry into the DDB Doctoral Program, you will need to:
- Determine that you meet Monash's eligibility requirements.
- Email an expression of interest to the DDB Higher Degree Research Committee (pharm-ddb-enquiries@monash.edu).
- Eligible applicants will be interviewed by the DDB Higher Degree Research Committee. For more information regarding our interview process, view the interview guidelines. Successful interviewees will be given an invitation to apply.
- Apply for our doctoral program via the online form.
Applicants are expected to obtain Australian Government, Monash University, or an equivalent scholarship.
