Programme Outcomes (PO)
On completion of the Ph.D. programme, under the guidance of a research supervisor, MRV scholars will be able to:
- PO1: Critically review literature, identify gaps, design and plan a study, and select appropriate methodologies to address research objectives.
- PO2: Recognize and analyze research dilemmas such as ethics, plagiarism, scientific misconduct, and biosafety, and uphold research integrity.
- PO3: Contribute novel findings in their research domain and provide valid explanations for them.
- PO4: Demonstrate effective oral and written communication through original research publications and conference presentations.
- PO5: Appreciate the practical application, translational potential, and future scope of their research.
Course Structure
| Course | Credits | Duration | Mode |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course 1 — Research & Publication Ethics | 2 | 8 weeks | Online (SWAYAM) |
| Course 2 — Research Methodology & Biostatistics* | 4 | 60 hr | Offline (at MRV) / Online |
| Course 3 — Theoretical Foundation & Core Subject* | 4 | 60 hr | Online / Offline (by respective guides) |
| Course 4 — Literature Review & Research Proposal | 4 | 60 hr | Online / Offline (by respective guides) |
* Scholars may also complete these courses through SWAYAM, Coursera, or other recognized online learning platforms approved by the RAC.
Course Details
Course 1 — Research & Publication Ethics (Core • 2 Credits • 8 weeks)
Delivered via the SWAYAM-MOOC platform with transferable credits, the course comprises six modules covering the philosophy of science and ethics, research integrity, publication ethics, identification of research misconduct and predatory publications, indexing and citation databases, open access, research metrics, and plagiarism detection tools. Pedagogy includes recorded lectures, e-texts, self-assessment questions, and quizzes, with a term-end examination for certification. Submission of the SWAYAM certificate is mandatory.
Course 2 — Research Methodology & Biostatistics (Core • 4 Credits • 60 hr • 100 marks)
- CO1: Explain the research process and design a structured research plan.
- CO2: Identify quality journals, recognize types of literature, and critically evaluate literature.
- CO3: Describe research ethics, plagiarism, and biosafety, and prevent scientific misconduct.
- CO4: Apply scientific writing and referencing methods for publications and presentations.
- CO5: Explain statistical principles, select appropriate tests, and present research findings.
Final examination: 5 questions × 20 marks = 100 marks.
Course 3 — Theoretical Foundation & Core Subject (Core • 4 Credits • 60 hr • 100 marks)
The syllabus is prescribed by the respective Research Supervisor (or by the Department/Centre and approved by the Board of Studies), reviewed and approved by the subject experts of the candidate's Research Advisory Committee (RAC), and communicated to the Controller of Examinations and the candidate. Scholars learn the subject-specific principles, theories, methodologies, and techniques relevant to their research area. Final examination: 5 questions × 20 marks = 100 marks.
Course 4 — Literature Review & Research Proposal (Core • 4 Credits • 60 hr)
- CO1: Critically evaluate existing literature and prepare a structured review.
- CO2: Analyze strengths, weaknesses, and research gaps in available literature.
- CO3: Formulate the aim, objectives, and hypothesis of the study.
- CO4: Identify appropriate methodologies and address ethical issues.
- CO5: Elaborate on the potential impact and societal benefits of the research.
At least 50% of the literature reviewed must be from the last 10 years. Scholars present a review of a minimum of 25 original research articles to their research guides, assessed across article count, introduction, logical sequence, gap identification, and presentation/Q&A (100 marks).
Examination & Assessment Guidelines
- Eligibility: minimum 75% attendance in each course and a No-Dues Certificate from the Library, Hostel (if applicable), Department, and Accounts Section.
- Pass criteria: minimum 50% marks in each paper individually — there is no aggregate pass.
- External examiners: one external examiner is appointed for Courses 3 and 4; single valuation is followed.
- Re-totalling is permitted on request (₹2,000 per paper); revaluation and grace marks are not permitted.
- Supplementary examination: candidates who fail a paper may reappear as per the university schedule with the same syllabus and pattern.
- An examination fee of ₹10,000 per candidate is collected at admission, covering question-paper setting, printing, invigilation, and evaluation.