PhD Programme in Interdisciplinary Cellular and Molecular Medicine

Programme Overview

The PhD Programme in Interdisciplinary Cellular and Molecular Medicine at Lokman Hekim University provides an advanced research platform for deciphering the complex molecular mechanisms underlying human health and disease. By bridging the gap between fundamental biological sciences and clinical applications, our programme adopts a holistic approach to understanding cellular function and interaction. We aim to cultivate a new generation of scientists capable of integrating cutting-edge technology with core medical principles to develop translational solutions for diagnosis and therapy. The language of Instruction is Turkish, and the duration is 4 Years (8 Semesters).

Degree Awarded

Graduates who complete the programme requirements are awarded the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Cellular and Molecular Medicine.

Admission and Registration Requirements

Admission is conducted in accordance with the Graduate Education Regulations of the Institute of Health Sciences. Eligibility: Applicants must hold a degree from a Faculty of Medicine (MD or Medical Specialty), Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine, or Pharmacy. Alternatively, candidates with a Master’s degree with a thesis in a relevant field—such as Molecular Medicine, Biochemistry, Biology, Medical Biology, Immunology, Neuroscience, Molecular Biology and Genetics, or Bioengineering—are eligible to apply. Applications from other disciplines may be considered at the Department's recommendation.

Entry Requirements:

• Minimum 55 points on ALES (Quantitative or Equal Weight).

• Minimum 55 points from YÖK-accepted central exams (e.g., YDS, YÖKDİL) or internationally recognized equivalents.

•  Candidates are ranked based on their ALES score, Foreign Language score, Graduate GPA, and performance in the Scientific Evaluation Exam (Written/Interview).

Programme Objectives

The primary objective of the programme is to advance molecular and cellular research at the doctoral level, fostering the development of independent researchers capable of publishing in high-impact national and international journals. The programme is designed to equip scientists and health professionals with the critical thinking skills, ethical grounding, and interdisciplinary perspective necessary to tackle complex medical challenges and contribute significantly to the academic community.

Programme Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the programme, graduates will be able to:

• Master Advanced Knowledge: Access, evaluate, interpret, and apply deep knowledge in cellular and molecular medicine.

• Integrate knowledge from diverse disciplines to develop novel ideas and original methodologies.

• Identify gaps in the field and design rigorous research strategies to address them.

• Systematically present scientific data in written and oral formats at national and international venues.

• Demonstrate leadership within healthcare and research teams, taking responsibility in complex situations.

• Strictly adhere to ethical principles throughout all stages of scientific research and publication.

Programme Structure, Credits and ECTS

The programme requires a minimum of 240 ECTS credits. This workload includes:

• A minimum of 7 doctoral courses,

• A seminar,

• The Doctoral Qualifying Examination,

• The Ph.D. Dissertation (Thesis) work.

Academic Regulations and Progression Rules

• Students must complete their coursework within a maximum of four semesters, with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.

• Upon completing coursework and documenting a foreign language score of at least 60, students are eligible to take the Doctoral Qualifying Examination.

• Successful candidates must defend their dissertation proposal before the Thesis Monitoring Committee (TIC) within six months of passing the qualifying exam.

Assessment and Evaluation

All academic activities, including midterms, final examinations, assignments, and seminars, are graded in accordance with the "Lokman Hekim University Graduate Education and Training Regulation."

Graduation Requirements

To qualify for graduation, the candidate must:

• Complete all required coursework and seminars.

• Maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.00.

• Pass the Doctoral Qualifying Examination.

• Complete all Thesis Monitoring Committee evaluations.

• Please make sure to defend the doctoral dissertation orally before a jury and receive a passing grade.

Further Study Opportunities (Doctoral/PhD)

Holders of the Ph.D. degree are fully qualified to pursue academic careers as Faculty Members (Assistant Professor, Associate Professor) in relevant departments. Additionally, graduates are well-positioned to pursue postdoctoral research fellowships (Postdocs) at prestigious research institutions in Turkey and abroad.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Interdisciplinary Cellular and Molecular Medicine Ph.D. Programmes are highly sought after for roles such as:

• Academic Faculty Members at the Faculties of Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Health Sciences.

• Principal Investigators or Managers in public and private biotechnology laboratories.

• R&D Scientists in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.

• Senior Researchers in advanced diagnostic and clinical research centers.

Mode of Study and Class Timetable

The programme is full-time. While classes and seminars are primarily scheduled during weekday working hours, laboratory research, examinations, and specific courses may be conducted after hours or on weekends as required by the curriculum or research necessities.

Programme Contact

Prof. Dr. Belma TURAN

Head of Department, Interdisciplinary Cellular and Molecular Medicine 

E-mail: belma.turan@lokmanhekim.edu.tr

Phone: 444 8 548 (Ext: 6133)