• Bachelor of Science with a minimum CGPA of 2.75 and above, in life sciences (biology) or its equivalent, from universities recognised by the Senate.
• Other qualifications equivalent to bachelor’s degree and relevant experience recognised by the Senate.
• Candidates should pass the English paper in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) or other relevant qualifications recognised by the Senate (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, etc.).

ACADEMIC PROGRAM BY RESEARCH (FULL-TIME / PART-TIME)

Programme Offered/Degree Award:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Science (MQA/FA7063)
• Master of Science (Biotechnology) (MQA/FA7055)

Brief Profile

The Biotechnology Research Institute is a one of the centre of excellences under Universiti Malaysia Sabah that focuses on research and postgraduate studies in the field of biotechnology. The institute offers the Master of Science (Biotechnology) Programme and the Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Science Programme, which emphasize knowledge development, technological innovation, and biotechnology-based solutions. Both programmes are accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).

The research focus areas include agro biotechnology, healthcare biotechnology, and industrial biotechnology. Among the specializations at the BRI are:

Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Science

• A Master’s degree in life sciences (biology) or related field, from universities recognized by the Senate
• Other qualifications equivalent to Master’s degree and relevant experience recognized by the Senate
• Malaysian candidates should pass English paper in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM). International candidates are required to achieve a minimum score of 5.5 in IELTS or Band 3 in MUET or its equivalent

Master of Science (Biotechnology)

• A Bachelor’s degree in life sciences (biology) or related field, with a minimum CGPA of 2.75, from universities recognized by the Senate
• Other qualifications equivalent to Bachelor’s degree and relevant experience recognized by the Senate or pass the APEL (subject to programmes approved by MQA)
• Malaysian candidates should pass English paper in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM). International candidates are required to achieve a minimum score of 5.5 in IELTS or Band 3 in MUET or its equivalent

Unique Features of the Research Programmes

• Located in Sabah, which is rich in tropical biodiversity and unique biological resources for biotechnology research

• Strategic collaborations with more than 80 national and international agencies

• The only institute in East Malaysia equipped with a Biosafety Level 3 Laboratory

• Fully equipped laboratories supporting both upstream and downstream biotechnological experiments

• Experienced academicians in delivering the programmes, including:

  • Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology (UK)

  • World’s Top 2% Scientists

  • Editors of high impact journals

  • Fellows of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia

  • Human Resource Development Corporation-certified trainers

  • Registered Biosafety Professional Program-certified trainers

  • Good Clinical Practice-certified researchers

  • Professional Technologists of the Malaysia Board of Technologies

Core Competencies of Graduates

Graduates of the research programmes at the Biotechnology Research Institute are equipped with theoretical knowledge and advanced research skills in biotechnology and applied sciences. The key competencies of graduates include:

• The ability to plan, conduct, and manage scientific research systematically and ethically

• Skills in modern biotechnology techniques such as molecular biology, microbiology, bioinformatics, cell culture, and bioprocess analysis

• The ability to analyze, interpret, and present scientific data critically using current scientific approaches

• Problem-solving skills through innovative biotechnology-based solutions for current issues

• The ability to produce high-quality scientific publications, technical reports, conference presentations, and academic writing

• Communication, leadership, and teamwork skills in a multidisciplinary research environment

• Understanding of laboratory safety practices, research ethics, and research project management

• The ability to adapt to new technologies and knowledge in line with global industrial and research developments

Career Prospects

Graduates of these programmes have the potential to pursue careers in various biotechnology, research, and applied science sectors, including:

• Research Officer / Research Scientist

• Lecturer / Academician

• Laboratory Officer or Science Officer

• Biotechnology Specialist or R&D Executive

• Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA) Officer

• Bioinformatics and Biological Data Analysis Specialist

• Science and Biotechnology Consultant

• Officer in government agencies and research institutions

• Officer in pharmaceutical, food, agricultural, healthcare, and environmental industries

• Entrepreneur in biotechnology and bioindustry sectors

Graduates may also pursue careers in national and international research institutions and contribute to the development of innovation and bioeconomy-based technologies

For further information, please contact: 

Dr. Eric Chong Tzyy Jiann 
Postgraduate Coordinator (Research) 
Biotechnology Research Institute 
Universiti Malaysia Sabah 
Jalan UMS, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia 

Tel: 6088-320000 ext. 104713 

Faks: 6088-320 993 

Email: eric_ctj[at]ums.edu.my / pejipb[at]ums.edu.my