BENJAT Postgraduate Studies (30+ cr)

The Doctoral Programme in Biological and Environmental Science is a part of the University of Jyväskylä’s Graduate School for Doctoral Studies and the Faculty of Mathematics and Science’s Doctoral School. The Doctoral Programme trains experts in the fields of aquatic sciences, ecology and evolutionary biology, cell and molecular biology and environmental science, which is based on original research of high international quality. Doctoral training is done in research groups within the department or collaborating institutes and primarily is completed as full time employment. In special circumstances the doctoral training can be done as part-time work. All full time doctoral students are expected to graduate within four years of enrolment to the programme.

The doctoral student should complete at least 30 ECTS credits of postgraduate studies. Studies in biology should be at least advanced level studies. Outside biology, also bachelor studies can be approved if they complement the doctoral student´s expertise. Transferable skills studies include obligatory research ethics studies of 2 ECTS credits, obligatory communication studies of 2 ECTS credits, and obligatory studies in open science (1 ECTS). Students should take an active role in learning by participating in teaching, research seminars and international scientific conference during their studies. In some cases, doctoral students may be able to also work and study abroad. The combination of research, ethics, transferable and professional skills prepares students for careers as an independent researcher or professional expert position.

Graduates will

· have the in-depth understanding required for experts of their field of research.

· have the scientific skills to produce new knowledge and address unsolved research problems,

· develop experience in leading a research project by formulating research plans, conducting and managing research, and critically evaluating research results.

· know and follow the expected ethical norms of scientific research and understand the principles of open science.

· effectively communicate in both written and oral formats with the scientific community, as well as with the media and general public.

· publish findings in international, peer-reviewed journals.

· be able to collaborate with other researchers and professionals and work in international teams.

· be able to share knowledge with different audiences, in particular to those with less expertise, e.g. via teaching and advising.

· understand academic work-life and the expectations and responsibilities of employees at the University of Jyväskylä in relation to research, teaching, and societal engagement.