The goal of a PhD education is to enable the candidate to conduct research at a high international level. The research will be made with sound scientific practice and established standards for research ethics. The PhD candidate will be able to solve complex research problems using creative solutions that will have a social and economic impact on society.

Candidate who has completed his or her qualification should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The candidate

• is at the forefront of knowledge within their field of biology
• has a broad biology background, to allow for future flexibility
• understands and can evaluate the suitability and application of different methods in research projects

Skills

The candidate

• can formulate research questions, and plan and carry out research work at a high international level
• can use research methods in the field to create new knowledge, theories, and methods
• can write scientific publications and communicate research in recognized national and international publication channels
• can handle complex scientific questions and challenge established knowledge and practices in the field

General competence

The candidate

• can acquire new knowledge, make decisions about research on the basis of scientific and complex foundations, work in research groups, and establish scientific networks
• can identify relevant ethical issues and carry out their research with professional integrity
• is aware of the United Nation's sustainability goals and conducts research according to these
• can assess the risks involved in the work, and safeguard HSE
• is prepared for the career after the PhD and has an overview of opportunities in academia, industry, public sector and private sector