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Doctor of Philosophy (Medical Biochemistry)

Introduction

Doctor of philosophy in Medical Biochemistry is an advanced course offered to postgraduate students who have desire to deepen their knowledge on the biochemical mechanisms and processes in living organisms.  The programme equips the graduates with skills and competences to undertake complex research in biochemical processes affecting human health.

The course encompasses investigations on biochemical basis of diseases in humans.  It involves the study of biochemical interactions like in cancer and diabetes and cardiovascular disorders, drug interactions during treatments and investigation of alterations of biochemical parameters like those in the liver.  It equips the graduates with the skills and knowledge to deal with

Rationale

PhD Medical biochemistry builds on the foundation of a strong biochemical knowledge in inter-disciplinary approach and allowing greater and deeper understanding of the biochemical mechanisms behind various pathological disorders including cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer diseases among others. Using medical biochemistry skills and knowledge, the biochemical mechanisms of virtually every disease can be studies and interventions developed through innovations including but not limited to various changes in drug designs alterations.

Objectives

The goal of the programme is to produce graduates with requisite competence to assume responsibilities in the field of medical biochemistry research and innovations.

By the end of the programme, the graduate shall be able to effectively;

• Demonstrate a clear understanding of how to design a workable research that elucidates the biochemical mechanisms that govern human health and disease
• Design research that enables disruptions of the particular biochemical mechanism process that ultimately lead to a particular pathological condition.
• To apply Medical biochemistry knowledge and skills in developing biochemical techniques and methods for diagnosis, treatment and management of a particular disease.
• Employ biochemistry skills and knowledge in developing diagnostic and therapeutic tools

Entry requirements

A student wishing to pursue a PhD degree in Medical Biochemistry must satisfy the minimum ³Ô¹ÏÍ·Ìõ and School of Pure and Applied Sciences entry requirements. Must be a holder of Masters of science in Medical Biochemistry or related Science by course work and thesis.

International Students

All international students will apply to the Commission for University Education (CUE) for assessment of their graduate qualifications for recognition and equation of foreign qualifications before enrolling for postgraduate studies.

Mode of Delivery and programme structure

The programme is offered by research and thesis.  The programme shall extend over a period of at least three (3) years from the date of registration for a candidate studying full-time but not extending beyond four years from the date of registration.

Fee Structure

Year 1 – Ksh. 336 600

Year 2 – Ksh. 336 600

Year 3 – Ksh. 336 600

Career Opportunities

Graduates from this course can pursue any of these specific career paths or fields

-Biomedical research

-Alternative therapeutic products designs

-Pharmaceutical industrial manufacturing and research

-Lecturing in higher learning institutions

-Development of diagnostic kits

Why choose this programme at KU

At KU you will find highly trained and experienced faculty to provide training and research supervision. ³Ô¹ÏÍ·Ìõ has a well-equipped research laboratory and animal house with relevant animals for medical research. KU also  hosts the National Phytotherapeutic Research Centre which is equipped with state-of-the art research facilities which are accessible to the department. Additionally, the department hosts a well-equipped plant transformation laboratory where Global Scale research is carried out.  The graduate school process is organized in a manner that facilitates timely completion of our graduate students.