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 in the forefront of knowledge in their field of specialization in biotechnology, and can assess the limitations of current knowledge within this academic field
• can master scientific theory, problems and methods within the academic field of biotechnology
• can assess the appropriateness and application of relevant methods and processes in research and development projects
• can contribute to the development of new knowledge, new theories, methods, interpretations and methods of documentation within this academic field

Skills

The candidate

• can formulate problems, plan and conduct research and development within biotechnological issues
• can perform relevant modelling or experimental research and development in biotechnology at a high, international level
• can deal with complex scientific issues and challenge established knowledge and practices within the academic field

General competence

The candidate

• can identify new relevant ethical issues, and perform their research with professional integrity
• can risk assess their operations and maintain a high standard of health, safety and environment aspects in their work
• can handle scientific issues where the candidate works in scientific team
• is able to establish professional networks with both Norwegian and international researchers and convey research and development by publishing in recognized international journals within the academic field and at national and international conferences
• can participate in debates within the academic field in international fora
• can assess the need for, initiate and drive innovation