PhD in Biotechnology in Canada: Top Universities, Specializations & Jobs

Updated on 23 September, 2024

Rakhee Talukdar

Rakhee Talukdar

Global Education Expert

PhD in Biotechnology in Canada

Canada has a prosperous life sciences industry and, by extension, a thriving biotech industry. It is no wonder that studying biotechnology in Canada is a dream for every STEM major. There are many opportunities for aspirants of PhD in Biotechnology in Canada.

PhD in Biotechnology in Canada: Why is it a Good Choice

Listed below are some of the reasons why students must opt for universities in Canada for PhD in biotechnology:

Scope

The 2021 federal budget proposed a $2.2 billion investment into the biotech space, including $1 billion over seven years that will be utilised towards bio-manufacturing firms through the Strategic Innovation Fund. Canada has several organizations that hire professionals in biotechnology with a well-paying package that is better than most countries.

Job Opportunities

Canada offers several jobs to individuals working in the field of biotechnology. Some of these are: Agricultural Technologist, Microbiology Technologist, Agrology Technician, Clinical Scientist, Clinical Associate, Clinical Quality Compliance Advisor, and Biological Scientist, among other roles.

Networking

Canada, as well all know, is a country rich in diversity and immigrant population. Therefore it comes as no surprise to know that the country offers its students an ample amount of opportunities to grow their networks globally as a large number of international students travel to Canada to pursue higher education.

Scholarships

Canadian universities offer their students a variety of options when it comes to financial aid and scholarship opportunities. More information about PhD in biotechnology in Canada with scholarship is discussed in detail in this article.

Specializations Available in Biotechnology in Canada

Most Canadian universities offer the following specialization for a PhD in Biotechnology:

  • Industrial Biotechnology
  • Medical Biotechnology
  • Environmental Biotechnology
  • Marine Biotechnology

 

Eligibility Criteria for PhD in Biotechnology in Canada

Given below are the basic requirements an applicant needs to fulfill to pursue PhD in Biotechnology in Canada:

  • Fulfill the minimum score criteria for IELTS or any other language proficiency test like TOEFL or Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL) to provide official proof that the individual is qualified to study in the English Language.
  • The minimum score for CAEL is 60, Cambridge Academic English Test is 176, IELTS 6.5 and TOEFL is 80. 
  • The applicants are typically expected to have a Master’s degree in Science. 

Top Universities Offering PhD in Biotechnology in Canada 

Given below is a list of the top universities in Canada for PhD in Biotechnology.

University Course QS World Ranking 2023 Annual Tuition Fee*
Brock University PhD in Biotechnology 1001-1200 7,834.83 CAD
Lakehead University PhD in Biotechnology NA 7,249.48 CAD
University of Guelph PhD in Plant Agriculture-Breeding and Biotechnologies 591-600 3,979 CAD
Simon Fraser University PhD in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry 328 2,025.60CAD

*As per university sites

Scholarships for PhD in Biotechnology in Canada

Given below are the details on the scholarships provided by Canadian Universities for applicants looking to pursue PhD in biotechnology in Canada with scholarship:

Scholarship Provider Eligibility Criteria Amount
Ontario Graduate Scholarship University of Toronto
  • Achieved at least A-
  • Completed at least 2 years of graduate studies
5,00 CAD per session, 10,000 CAD for 2 sessions and 15,000 CAD for 3 sessions
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships  Vanier CGS
  • Local or International
  • Areas of research should be Health, Natural Science, Humanities or Social Sciences.
50,00 CAD for three years
President’s Academic Excellence Initiative PhD Award University of British Columbia
  • Local or International Citizenship
  • Doctoral

 

1,500 CAD per year
Delta Kappa Gamma World Fellowships University of Toronto
  • Master’s or Doctoral
  • Identify as a woman
5,396 CAD
Izaak Walton Killam Memorial Doctoral Scholarships University of Alberta
  • Completed at least one year of graduate studies
45,000 CAD

 *As per  university sites

Job Prospects 

Given below is a list of job opportunities offered to students who have completed a biotech PhD in Canada:

Job Average Annual Salary*
Biotechnologist 54,682 CAD
Clinical Scientist 1,61,083 CAD
Bioinformatics Technician 66,881 CAD
Clinical Associate 67,329 CAD
Biological Scientists 95,218 CAD
Clinical Quality Compliance Advisor 98,594 CAD
Assistant Pharmacy Director 1,39,964 CAD

*As per job sites

Conclusion

Finally, when it comes to opportunities and growth, Canada is a great option. The country is not only reaching heights economically but is also highly accepting of immigrants and international students. Statistically speaking, about 1 in 4 people in Canada are said to be immigrants. With an average pay range of 42k-69k CAD, a great learning environment and ample networking opportunities, make the top universities in Canada for PhD in biotechnology your following alma mater. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Canada an affordable place for students?

Compared to other first-world countries, Canada is affordable for students. The basic utilities in an apartment in Canada roughly cost 188 CAD with a rent of about 1,640 CAD. Tuition fees are also cheaper than in the US.

Is Canada a safe country for foreigners?

In 2021, Canada was ranked the 4th safest country in the world. Moreover, Canada is famous for its diverse immigrant population and being extremely tourist-friendly. 

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Rakhee Talukdar

Global Education Expert

Rakhee Talukdar is an edtech expert with five years of experience in the education technology sector, focusing on K-12 and higher education systems in various countries, including Canada, USA, Finland, France, and Germany. Her background includes founding a startup and working with early-stage educational ventures, giving her a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within these educational landscapes. Additionally, Rakhee specializes in helping students craft compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs) for studying abroad, leveraging her insights into different education systems to guide students in articulating their academic and professional goals effectively. Her comprehensive knowledge and strategic approach make her a valuable resource for students navigating their educational journeys and financial planning.

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