Doctoral Programme

Faculty of Electronic Engineering & Technology

Doctor of Philosophy
(Biomedical Engineering)

Programme Code: PhD-BE  |  Duration: Full-Time 3–5 Years / Part-Time 4–7 Years  |  By Research

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Programme Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Engineering is a broad, multidisciplinary research degree that spans mechanical, chemical, electronic, and materials engineering principles applied to medicine and healthcare. Candidates investigate biomechanics, tissue engineering, biomaterials, regenerative medicine, and biomedical systems at the highest research level.

This programme distinguishes itself from the Biomedical Electronic Engineering PhD by its broader engineering scope, incorporating mechanical, materials, and chemical engineering approaches alongside electronics. It is ideal for candidates pursuing research at the intersection of engineering and life sciences, targeting applications in prosthetics, biomaterials, or tissue engineering.

Programme Highlights

Broadest scope among biomedical PhD programmes — spans electronics, mechanics, and materials
Interdisciplinary supervisory panels including engineering and medical faculty
Collaboration opportunities with UM Medical Centre and hospital research units
Research in biomaterials, scaffold engineering, and regenerative technologies
Pathway to global academic and industry positions in the growing biomedical engineering sector
Access to funding through MOH Research Grants, Newton Fund, and ASEAN research networks

PhD by Research vs Industrial PhD

Doctor of Philosophy (by Research): Full-time (3–5 years) or part-time (4–7 years) thesis-based research under a UniMAP academic supervisor.

Industrial PhD: For Malaysian citizens who are currently employed in industry as an engineer, researcher, or equivalent, holding a Master's degree or First Class Honours degree. The research topic must solve an industrial problem, with a UniMAP main supervisor and an industry co-supervisor, and the research is conducted full-time at the industry partner.

Research Areas

PhD candidates are expected to contribute original knowledge within — but not limited to — the following active research areas at FKTEN:

Biomechanics & Computational Biomechanics
Biomaterials & Scaffold Engineering
Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine
Orthopaedic & Dental Biomechanics
Prosthetics & Orthotics Engineering
Drug Delivery Systems
Medical Robotics & Surgical Systems
Biomedical Imaging & Simulation

Finding a Supervisor

Prospective PhD candidates are strongly encouraged to contact potential supervisors directly before submitting an application. Visit the FKTEN staff directory to identify academics whose research interests align with your proposed topic. A well-matched supervisory relationship is critical to PhD success.

Research Proposal Requirements

Applicants must submit a Research Proposal (approx. 2,000 words) covering: background and motivation, problem statement, research objectives, proposed methodology, expected contribution to knowledge, and a preliminary timeline. Proposals are evaluated by a faculty panel prior to admission.

Programme Outcomes

Upon successful completion and thesis defence, graduates will demonstrate:

PO1: Produce original, internationally significant research in biomedical engineering with clear healthcare relevance.
PO2: Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge spanning multiple engineering disciplines applied to biomedical problems.
PO3: Design, develop, and validate biomedical engineering solutions — from concept through preclinical evaluation.
PO4: Conduct ethical research involving biomedical materials, animal models, or clinical data as appropriate.
PO5: Apply advanced computational modelling, materials characterisation, and experimental methods rigorously.
PO6: Disseminate findings in leading biomedical engineering journals (Biomaterials, Acta Biomaterialia, Ann. Biomed. Eng.).
PO7: Navigate regulatory pathways and ethical frameworks for medical device or biomaterial development.
PO8: Build and lead multidisciplinary research teams spanning engineering, clinical, and life science expertise.

Career Prospects

A PhD from FKTEN UniMAP opens doors to the highest-level positions in academia, industry research, and national policy. Graduates join a global network of engineering scholars and technology leaders.

Career Destinations

Academic Researcher / Professor Biomaterials Scientist Orthopaedic Implant R&D Engineer Tissue Engineering Researcher Medical Robotics Scientist Regulatory Affairs Director (Medical Devices) Clinical Trials Researcher Healthcare Innovation Strategist Biomedical Consultant Biotech / MedTech Entrepreneur

Employers & Institutions

PhD graduates serve as academic staff at UniMAP, UM, UPM, USM, UiTM, and internationally. Industry positions include Johnson & Johnson R&D, Stryker, Medtronic, DePuy Synthes, Zimmer Biomet, as well as national research agencies MARDI, SIRIM, and MIGHT.

Programme Details

AwardDoctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Duration (Full-Time)3 – 5 Years
Duration (Part-Time)4 – 7 Years
Study ModeFull-time / Part-time Research
LanguageEnglish
AccreditationMQA Accredited
IntakeFebruary & September

Entry Requirements

Master's Degree: In a related field from an institution recognised by the University Senate, or an equivalent qualification

Direct Entry (rigorous assessment): Option 1 — at least Grade A- for an individually registered final year project, OR at least 1 year of relevant working experience

Direct Entry — Option 2: An average of at least Grade A- for 12 credit hours of core courses related to the programme, OR for 12 credit hours of third/fourth-year courses related to the programme

Study Fees

PhD (6 semesters)RM 19,115.00
Industrial PhD (6 semesters)RM 36,850.00

Funding & Scholarships

MyBrainSc PhD Scholarship (KPT)
UniMAP Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA)
FRGS / PRGS / ERGS Research Grants
Industry-co-funded PhD sponsorships
Newton-Ungku Omar Fund (UK-Malaysia)

Contact & Apply

pascasiswazah_FKTEN@unimap.edu.my

shidee@unimap.edu.my

019-4464645 (Assoc. Prof. Dr. Razaidi Hussin)

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