The PhD program is structured as follows:

Year 1: Research rotations in three different units, in parallel with basic and advanced courses.

Year 2: The start of research on the thesis topic, in the thesis research unit, in parallel with remaining course requirements. A qualifying examination leads to candidacy.

Years 3 to 5: Thesis research continues toward submission of a completed thesis for examination.

Degree offered: Doctor of Philosophy.
*Professional and Career Development continues throughout the program.

Download the OIST PhD Program Structure

Alongside established courses we offer independent study with world-class faculty members who provide teaching at the most advanced levels, special topics of current interest, and participation in world-renowned OIST international workshops as part of the program.

Please find the list of faculty members who are currently recruiting PhD students for their research units from here. 

About 90 cutting-edge laboratories offer thesis research opportunities in a range of fields including physics, chemistry, mathematical and computational sciences, marine sciences, neuroscience, molecular, cellular, and developmental biology, and environmental and ecological science. The absence of a departmental structure promotes science without borders.

From the beginning, students work side-by-side with world-class faculty and researchers in well-equipped laboratories, learning research by doing research. A program of professional development continues throughout the program to prepare students for leadership roles in science and technology.