PhD in Molecular Biology
Programme Overview
The PhD degree is assessed based on a dissertation. In addition, it may be obtained in an alternative format primarily based on published scientific articles. An oral examination is a general requirement, though exemption may be granted in specific cases with Senate approval.
For enquiries: Tygerberg Doctoral Office — Tel: 021 938 9813 | Email: tyg-phd@sun.ac.za | Website: www.sun.ac.za/fmhsdoctoraloffice
Learning Outcomes
Specific Admission Requirements Admission to the PhD degree requires that: • A minimum of two years has passed since obtaining an MBChB or BChD degree; or • You have obtained a relevant honours degree in Medical Sciences directly following an MBChB or BChD; or • You have obtained a relevant MSc degree from this University or another university approved by Senate; or • You have obtained another qualification deemed sufficient by Senate. Selection rests with the academic environment; the infrastructure and capacity of the environment are also taken into account. At the time of submission, you must: • Have been registered for the PhD at the University for at least two academic years. • Give written notice of your intended submission date to the Tygerberg Doctoral Office at least six months prior to the desired graduation date. • Submit a dissertation providing proof of advanced, original work contributing to fundamental, theoretical and/or clinical knowledge in the relevant field. • Include a declaration confirming the dissertation is your own work and has not been submitted elsewhere for a degree or diploma.
About Stellenbosch University
Stellenbosch University is a research-intensive public institution in South Africa, officially established as a university in 1918, with roots dating back to 1866. Located in the Western Cape Province, it offers 10 faculties — including AgriSciences, Arts and Social Sciences, Economic and Management Sciences, Education, Engineering, Law, Medicine and Health Sciences, Science, Theology, and Military Science — to over 35,000 students across multiple campuses, with more than 150 undergraduate and 800 postgraduate programmes. Stellenbosch holds the highest weighted research output per full-time staff member of any South African university. Its Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS), celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2026, is the focal point for the EXCEL-PHARM partnership. Physically located in the northern suburbs of Cape Town, the FMHS hosts over 5,000 students across more than 90 postgraduate programmes at Honours, Masters, and Doctoral level. The Faculty is anchored by the Stellenbosch University Biomedical Research Institute (SUBRI) — a landmark R1.2 billion facility that brings together over 500 researchers working on Africa's most pressing health challenges, from tuberculosis and HIV to cardio-metabolic and neurological diseases.