UPES Ph.D Biotechnology: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. The UPES Ph.D. Biotechnology program has a minimum duration of 3 years (6 semesters) and may extend up to 6 years. The fee is INR 1,00,000 per semester, totalling INR 6,00,000 for the minimum 3-year period. Full-time scholars who qualify for the UPES fellowship may receive a monthly stipend of up to INR 34,000, significantly reducing the effective cost of the program.

Ans. Yes. Candidates holding a valid UGC NET, CSIR-NET, GATE, SET, GPAT, or INSPIRE qualification are exempt from the UPES Research Entrance Test (RET). They are directly called for the personal interview after submitting their research proposal. This exemption applies as long as the qualifying exam score is within its validity period at the time of application to UPES.

Ans. UPES Ph.D. Biotechnology covers research in molecular biology, biochemical engineering, biofuels, bioremediation, industrial enzyme processes, and industrial biotechnology. Given UPES’s focus on the energy sector, research at the intersection of biotechnology and energy applications is a particular strength of the program. The specific research supervisors and active projects for the incoming batch should be confirmed with the School of Advanced Engineering at the time of application.

Ans. The fellowship stipend of up to INR 34,000 per month is available for full-time Ph.D. scholars but is limited to 100 fellowship seats across all doctoral programs at UPES. Allocation depends on the research area, merit, and supervisor funding. Candidates who are UGC JRF or DST INSPIRE awardees receive their respective government fellowships instead of the UPES stipend.

Ans. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Biotechnology, Life Sciences, Biochemistry, or a closely related discipline from a recognised university, with minimum 55% marks or an equivalent CGPA. Final-year M.Sc candidates may apply provisionally. All shortlisted candidates must also submit a 1,000-word research proposal outlining the intended research topic before appearing for the personal interview.