Dr. Arshad Mahmood

Professor & Dean
Faculty of Sciences

Dean's Message

Welcome to the Faculty of Science at Salim Habib University (SHU), where we are committed to excellence in education and research across both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Currently, the faculty offers undergraduate programs in BS-Biosciences, BS-Microbiology, and BS-Biotechnology, as well as postgraduate programs, including M.Phil. and PhD in Biosciences. We are continuously exploring new frontiers in life sciences to further expand our academic offerings.

Pakistan faces a significant burden of diseases affecting humans, plants, and animals, which have a profound impact on our national economy and extend to global markets. These challenges not only strain healthcare systems and agricultural productivity but also disrupt the livelihoods of millions. Addressing these issues on both a national and international scale is crucial to ensure economic stability, environmental sustainability, and improved public health.

The Biosciences, Biotechnology, and Microbiology programs at Salim Habib University are designed to equip students with marketable and entrepreneurial skills by integrating diverse scientific domains. Our programs focus on developing innovative solutions to health-related challenges, including disease mechanisms, prevention, control measures, and drug discovery, while also addressing issues in agriculture, livestock, food safety, and environmental protection. Together, these programs offer a comprehensive education that prepares students for real-world challenges across multiple sectors.

To ensure the highest quality of education and research, SHU is proud to have a highly qualified PhD faculty with extensive national and international research experience, bringing cutting-edge knowledge from globally renowned institutions. Our state-of-the-art infrastructure, including modern classrooms, advanced labs, and fully equipped computer facilities, ensures an optimal learning environment. We prepare students to integrate life sciences with other fields, fostering innovation and leadership to address today’s global challenges. Join us at SHU to become a leader in the scientific community and make a meaningful impact on society.

Dr. Arshad Mahmood
Professor
Dean, Faculty of Science

BS Biosciences

Welcome to the Bachelor of Science in Biosciences (BS Biosciences) program, an innovative and comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to prepare students for success in the dynamic and rapidly evolving field of biosciences. At Salim Habib University (SHU), we recognize that Pakistan is on the cusp of a scientific revolution and our program is crafted to provide students with a robust foundation in biological principles, theories, and practices, along with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in various professional settings.

The twenty-first century is the age of biosciences, marked by groundbreaking discoveries such as stem cells, the development of new tools and technologies, advances in computational biology, and multidisciplinary approaches. Our BS Biosciences program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to be at the forefront of these exciting developments, making a meaningful impact in the world of biosciences and beyond.

Our program ensures that graduates of the BS Biosciences program gain a comprehensive understanding of multiple domains of biological sciences. This is achieved through interactive classroom sessions and hands-on experiences in well-equipped laboratories and state-of-the-art research facilities. This approach empowers our graduates to make significant contributions at both national and international levels.

Program Objectives

The BS-Bioscience program provides intellectual development and scholarly maturation, training graduates for career options that include teaching, research, and/or service in the health care and life sciences. The program emphasizes flexibility in pursuing different paths within biological sciences as well as interdisciplinary training to meet the individual professional goals of each student.

• To produce multi-disciplinarily trained graduates.
• Achieve highest level of expertise in bioscience to address novel and emerging problems.
• Effectively communicate scientific issues both to bioscience fraternity and to general public.

Internship and Career Prospects

Graduates of the BS Biosciences program will find a wealth of career opportunities in various domains. Potential career paths include roles in medical and research laboratories, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, environmental and conservation agencies, and academic institutions. With expertise in areas like genetics, microbiology, and bioinformatics, our graduates are well-prepared for careers in research, diagnostics, public health, and beyond.

Bioinformatic Analyst & Genomic Data Scientist

Vaccine & Drug Development (Bioproduct Development)

Pharmaceutical Industries

Environmental Biotechnologist

Dairy industries

Food products and beverages industries

Waste water treatment

Probiotics

Forensic Microbiology

Agricultural Microbiologist & Plant Pathologist

Water industries

Fermentation & Bioprocess Engineer

Teaching and Research

Pathological and Diagnostic labs

Marine & Fisheries

Eligibilty Criteria

• Have 45% marks in HSC (Pre-Engineering or Pre-Medical) /A-levels or equivalent qualification
• Qualify the Aptitude Test and Interview

Scheme of Study (Semester Wise)

• Duration: 4 Years
• Semesters: 8
• Credit Hours: 131

List Of Electives:

M.Phil. Biosciences

The Department of Biosciences embraces the full breadth of modern, vibrant and internationally leading Biosciences programs. The MPhil program covers all aspects of the field, that strongly supports multidisciplinary integration and empowering students with flexibility to tailor their education to their skills and interests.

Students will gain skills and knowledge of their chosen field through a research project with planning research and the presentation their work through written, oral and visual communication.

Program Goals

Our goal is to provide research friendly environment to develop meaningful skills in scientists such as reading and critical evaluation ability, independent thinking, consideration, and maintaining of ethical standards by using a variety of methods for investigation and analysis.

Program Objectives

Provision of a research culture that will help students in lifelong learning and make them enable to understand the concept and difficulties of communicable and non-communicable diseases.

Eligibility Criteria

• Sixteen years of education or 4-year education (124 credit hours) after HSSC/ F. A./ F. Sc./ Grade12 or Equivalent
• Minimum of 2.5 CGPA/60% marks in previous education in the same subject relevant to the field of study.

Coursework

Course work of 24 credit hours in the first year is required to be completed with a minimum of 3.0 CGPA on a scale of 4.0.

Scheme of Study (Semester wise)

• Duration: 2 years
• Semester: 4
• Credit Hours: 30

Research Proposal/Synopsis:

• Research proposal/synopsis of student fulfilling the coursework requirements is to be duly forwarded by the research supervisor(s), Chairperson, and Dean to the university's BASR in the prescribed format.
• The synopsis shall be accompanied by an ethical approval from the university's ethical committee, only if the study involves interventions prescribed by the ethical committee.
• Prior approval shall be requested from the BASR, before making any change in the previously approved research study.

Thesis

• The thesis (equivalent to 6 credit hours) is to be submitted to the university's BASR after internal evaluation by the Chairperson.
• 2 external examiners from any other university, shall evaluate the student's thesis. Their comments shall directly reach the BASR, which would further communicate the remarks to the student, research supervisor(s), and the Chairperson.
• Oral defense of the research work shall be done in the presence of an external examiner accompanied by the Dean. On the basis of the final remarks of the external examiner and Dean, forwarded by the Chairperson, the BASR will decide on the award of the degree.

Prospects and Career Pathway:

• Independently handle the issues about:
  • Environment
  • Agriculture
  • Research/academic organizations
  • Diagnostic and health industry
  • Food sector
  • Nutrition
  • Pharmaceutical industry
  • Biotechnological industry
• Earn an entry into renowned national and international organizations/institutions
• Can set up small businesses related to:
  • Healthcare
  • Food processing units
  • Biotechnological processes

BS Microbiology

Microbiology is a diverse field encompassing both fundamental and applied sciences. To effectively identify microorganisms and harness their metabolic capabilities for commercial use, microbiologists need a solid understanding of microbial taxonomy, genetics, immunology, and physiology. This discipline focuses on the study of bacteria, viruses, algae, fungi, and protozoa present in our environment, offering insights into their cellular structures and metabolic pathways. Microbiology plays a crucial role in understanding the mechanisms behind infectious diseases, especially highlighted by recent epidemics and pandemics. This has underscored the significance of Microbiology as a promising career path.

Program Objectives

• To provide students with a solid understanding of various branches of Microbiology, including medical microbiology, immunology, fermentation technology, environmental microbiology.
• To expose students to advanced topics such as Nanobiotechnology and Marine Microbiology, fostering a deeper understanding of the field.
• To ensure students develop competencies in microbiological techniques, enabling them to analyze and address problems involving microorganisms effectively.
• To encourage collaboration across different scientific disciplines, recognizing the interdisciplinary nature of Microbiology.
• To equip students with the skills necessary for a successful career in Microbiology.

Career Prospects

• Nanotechnologist and Drug Designing
• Quality control
• Environmental Microbiologist
• Quality assurance
• Product development
• Clinical Microbiologist
• Food Technologist
• Public health
• Industrial Microbiologist

Internship Opportunities

• Pathological laboratories
• Pharmaceutical companies
• Food and Dairy processing industries
• Marine fisheries
• Water treatment facilities
• Biotechnological firms
• Agriculture
• Research organizations
• Academic institutions

Scheme of Study (Semester wise)

• Duration: 4 Years
• Semesters: 8
• Credit Hours: 130

BS Biotechnology

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biotechnology program is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the biological sciences and their applications in technology and industry. This interdisciplinary program combines elements of biology, chemistry, and engineering to foster innovation in fields such as healthcare, agriculture, and environmental management. Students will gain hands-on experience through laboratory work and research projects, learning to manipulate biological systems to develop products and processes that address real-world challenges. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in research, development, and various biotechnological industries, or for further study in advanced degree programs.

Program Objectives

• To provide students with foundational knowledge in biological sciences, chemistry, and biotechnology.
• To develop practical skills through hands-on laboratory experiences.
• To emphasize an interdisciplinary approach integrating biology, chemistry, and engineering.
• To encourage student engagement in research projects and enhance their ability to conduct and interpret experiments.
• To prepare graduates for careers in biotechnology and related fields, as well as advanced studies.
• To instill ethical responsibility, effective communication, and a commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.

Internship Opportunities

• Biotechnology Companies
• Pharmaceutical Companies
• Healthcare Organizations
• Agricultural Biotechnology Firms
• Environmental Biotechnology Organizations
• Academic and Research Institutions
• Government Agencies
• Non-Profit Organizations
• Industrial Biotechnology Firms

Career Prospects

• Drug Development Scientist
• Bioprocess Engineer
• Bioinformatics Analyst
• Genomics Data Scientist
• Clinical Research Associate
• Medical Laboratory Scientist
• Biotechnology Educator
• Science Communicator
• Environmental Biotechnologist
• Sustainability Specialist
• Agricultural Biotechnologist
• Food Scientist
• Bio-Manufacturing Specialist
• Bioproduct Development Manager
• Biotech Sales Representative
• Startup Founder
• Biotech Consultant

Scheme of Study (Semester wise)

• Duration: 4 Years
• Semesters: 8
• Credit Hours: 127

Ph.D. Biosciences

The Department of Biosciences at Salim Habib University (SHU) offers a PhD Biosciences program designed to address critical health-related issues affecting humans, animals, and plants. SHU provides state-of-the-art laboratories for advanced postgraduate research, supported by a diverse PhD faculty with extensive national and international research experience in areas such as disease mechanisms, diagnostics, bioinformatics, and genetic studies.

Our research efforts are focused on solving pressing challenges in food safety and security, environmental sustainability, and health concerns in the medical, agricultural, and livestock sectors. Utilizing cutting-edge in vitro, in vivo, and bioinformatics tools, we are committed to advancing knowledge and developing innovative solutions for a healthier world.

Program Objectives:

• Foster Advanced Research in Diverse Bioscience Domains: Leverage the expertise of a diverse faculty in biotechnology, biochemistry, microbiology, bioinformatics, and medicinal plants to drive cutting-edge research that addresses critical health, agricultural, and environmental challenges.
• Promote Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Knowledge Integration: Encourage interdisciplinary research that combines molecular biology, computational tools, and biotechnology to create comprehensive solutions for complex bioscience problems in human, animal, and plant health.
• Enhance Bioinformatics and Biotechnology Applications: Equip students with the skills to apply bioinformatics and biotechnology to analyze biological data, improve disease diagnostics, and develop interventions for sustainable agricultural and medical practices.

Eligibility Criteria

• A minimum 30-credit hour MS/M. Phil degree (18 years of education with first division or CGPA of 3.00 on a scale of 4.00 or overall 60% marks in annual system or equivalent) in the relevant subject is a prerequisite, from any HEC recognized University. In case of a foreign degree, it will be ascertained that it is equivalent to Pakistani M.Phil./ MS degree from any recognized University/Institution.
• GRE/GAT, (Score = 60%) or
• SHU PhD admission test (Score =60%)

Ref: HEC Graduate Education Policy

PhD Courses

PhD students must select any six courses (18 credit hours) from this list, to be completed preferably during the first year of their program.

Note: The offering of seminar and independent study courses is subject to the approval of the departmental Graduate Research Committee (GRC). The list of courses is not exhaustive and may be updated at any time, with the addition or removal of courses subject to the approval of the Board of Studies (BOS). Additionally, the content of PhD courses will not be fixed; it will reflect the instructor’s expertise and incorporate the latest trends and state-of-the-art literature relevant to the course.