Doctoral programme in Natural Sciences (Biology)

Degree to be achieved: Doctoral Degree of Science Doctor of Science (Ph.D.) in Natural Sciences
Standard period of study: 3 years
Type of studies: Full time
Amount of credits: 144 credit points or 216 ECTS
European Qualifications Framework (EQF) level: Level 8
International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) level: Level 8
Language of instruction: Latvian and English
Study program is licensed, will be accredited within two years (according to national legislation)

Tuition fee

Short Program description

Program provides research based training in major fields of Biology: Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Botany, Cell Biology, Genetics, Ecology, Human and Animal Physiology, Hydrobiology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Zoology. The core part of the program is a research project under supervision of experienced academicians. Acquisition of transferable and academic teaching skills is required; three theoretical examinations have to be passed: field, specialization and language. The degree is awarded on the basis of Thesis, which are presented in an open seminar.  The research results have to be published beforehand. The graduates have wide opportunities of academic and industrial employment.

ERASMUS+ exchange possibilities

UL full-time students, regardless of their citizenship, have the opportunity to apply for the ERASMUS + exchange program for studies or/and traineeship.  

More information:

ERASMUS + study mobility 
ERASMUS + traineeship moblity  

Admission requirements

Master’s Degree or equivalent in Life Sciences, Medicine or Chemistry

As a part of the admission process applicants will be asked to participate in an online interview.

Autumn Intake (application start: 02 Jan 2023; studies start in Sept 2023)

Full-time

Contact persons for more information about the programme:

Programme director
Dr.h.biol. Indriķis Muižnieks
Indrikis.Muiznieks@lu.lv

Programme secretary
Vita Brusbārde
vita.brusbarde@lu.lv 

The programme has been developed within the framework of the project “Design of Internationally Competitive Study Programmes Promoting the Development of the National Economy of Latvia at the University of Latvia” (project No. 8.2.1.0 / 18 / A / 015).