NBRC - PhD

Eligibility Criteria for NBRC Entrance Exam

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must have a Bachelors degree in Science (B.Sc) or Life Sciences, or a Masters degree (M.Sc) in relevant disciplines such as Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or related fields from a recognized university.
• Age Limit: Generally, candidates should be below 28 years of age. Age relaxation may be applicable as per government norms for reserved categories.
• Nationality: Only Indian citizens are eligible to apply for the NBRC entrance exam.

Exam Pattern of NBRC Entrance Exam

• Mode of Exam: The exam is usually conducted in an offline (pen-and-paper) mode.
• Number of Questions: Typically consists of around 50 to 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
• Marking Scheme: Each correct answer carries one mark, and there is generally no negative marking for wrong answers.
• Subjects Covered:
  • Neuroscience fundamentals
  • Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Physiology
  • General Biology
• Examination Schedule: The notification for the exam is typically released in the month of May or June. The exam is conducted in July or August every year.

Syllabus for NBRC Entrance Exam

• Neuroscience:
  • Structure and function of neurons
  • Neuroanatomy
  • Neurophysiology
  • Neurodevelopment and neurogenetics
  • Neuropharmacology
• Cell Biology:
  • Cell structure and organelles
  • Cell cycle and division
  • Membrane biology
• Biochemistry:
  • Biomolecules (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids)
  • Enzymes and their kinetics
  • Metabolism pathways
• Molecular Biology:
  • DNA replication, transcription, and translation
  • Gene expression regulation
  • Recombinant DNA technology
• Physiology:
  • Human organ systems (nervous, circulatory, respiratory etc.)
  • Homeostasis
  • Signal transduction
• General Biology:
  • Basic genetics
  • Evolution and ecology concepts

Application Process

1. Visit the official NBRC website during the application period.
2. Register with a valid email ID and mobile number to create your account.
3. Fill in the online application form with accurate personal and academic details.
4. Upload required documents such as photograph, signature, and educational certificates as per specifications.
5. Pay the application fee online using net banking, credit/debit card, or other available modes.
6. Submit the application form and take a printout for future reference.

Courses Offered

• Ph.D. programs in Neuroscience and related interdisciplinary research fields.
• Integrated M.Tech-Ph.D. programs in Computational Neuroscience.

Facts about the Entrance Exam

• NBRC is a premier neuroscience research institute in India.
• The exam selects candidates for advanced research-oriented positions.
• The selection is highly competitive and tests thorough understanding of neuroscience and allied subjects.

Admit Card

• Admit cards are released online on the official NBRC website about a week before the exam date.
• Download the admit card by logging in with your credentials.
• Print the admit card and carry it to the exam center along with a valid photo ID.
• Check the details carefully and follow instructions mentioned on the admit card.

Results & Cut-Offs

• Results are announced on the official NBRC website within a few weeks after the exam.
• Cut-off marks vary each year depending on the difficulty level and number of candidates.
• Candidates must score above the cut-off to qualify for interviews or further selection stages.

Preparation Tips

• Focus on strengthening your basics in neuroscience, molecular biology, and biochemistry.
• Refer to standard textbooks like "Principles of Neural Science" by Kandel, or "Molecular Biology of the Cell" by Alberts.
• Practice previous years question papers and sample papers.
• Use online resources like NPTEL courses, research articles, and video lectures related to brain research.

FAQs

• Q: Can final year students apply?
  A: Yes, final year students awaiting results are eligible to apply.
• Q: Is there negative marking?
  A: Generally, there is no negative marking for the NBRC entrance exam.
• Q: How many attempts are allowed?
  A: There is no fixed limit on the number of attempts, but candidates must meet eligibility criteria each time.
• Q: Where is the exam conducted?
  A: The exam is conducted at designated centers across India.
• Q: Are there any reservation policies?
  A: Yes, reservation policies as per Government of India norms are followed.