The MPhil program provides basic research training in major areas of life science. Students will acquire the knowledge, skills, and experience required for research. A candidate for an MPhil degree is expected to demonstrate knowledge in the discipline and to discover new findings contributing to the field.

The program normally takes two years of full-time study to complete. Students are expected to conduct thesis research, undertake coursework, attend and present research seminars. Submission and successful defense of a thesis based on original research is required. 

The PhD program aims to cultivate qualified students who can independently conduct advanced-level research projects. Students will gain both broad knowledge in modern life science and in-depth knowledge in specialized areas. A PhD candidate must pass a qualifying examination set by LIFS and is expected to contribute original knowledge to the field of life science by publishing their findings in peer-reviewed international journals.

The program usually takes four to five years of full-time study to complete. Students are expected to conduct thesis research, undertake coursework, attend and present research seminars. Submission and successful defense of a thesis based on original research is required.

• Biotechnology and Medicinal Biochemistry
• Cancer Biology
• Cellular Regulation and Signaling
• Developmental Biology
• Macromolecular Structure and Function
• Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience

• At least 11 credits for MPhil or 18 credits for PhD from the life science postgraduate course list for Cohort 2022/23 and before. At least 10 credits for MPhil or 17 credits for PhD from the life science postgraduate course list for Cohort 2023/24 and thereafter.
• Professional Development Courses
• English Language Courses
• Postgraduate Seminars
• PhD Qualifying Examination (PhD only)
• Thesis Research

For details please refer to MPhil/PhD Programs in Life Science.