Philosophy

The PhD programme in Cancer Biology and Therapeutics at the Center for Advanced Medical Research and Training (CAMRET), Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUS), is designed to address the critical shortage of expertise in cancer research within Nigeria and Africa. This programme aims to develop independent researchers capable of tackling the fundamental scientific challenge of understanding the biological basis for malignancy and the clinical challenge of translating this knowledge into improved cancer treatments. By providing comprehensive training in the fundamental science of cancer, clinical aspects of diagnosis and treatment, and emerging technologies, the programme empowers learners to contribute significantly to global health. PhD students will engage in original research, participate in seminars, and complete a publishable thesis under expert supervision. The programme aimed to produce skilled researchers ready to advance cancer care, enhance local research capacity, and establish Nigeria as a leader in cancer research and innovation, addressing global health challenges and improving patient outcomes.

Aim and Objectives

Aim: The aim of the program is to train students to be the next generation scientists in cancer research and to give them the necessary skills that will allow them connect clinical research with cancer diagnosis and therapy especially within the context of personalized medicine.

The objectives are to:

1. Deepen students' comprehension of the complex disease processes involved in cancer and enhance their ability to critically evaluate and contribute to the development of innovative therapeutic options through rigorous scientific research.
2. Cultivate advanced proficiency in scientific research methods, with a focus on sophisticated techniques in cell and molecular biology, pathology, and related disciplines, enabling students to conduct independent and impactful research.
3. Equip students with the expertise to navigate ethical dilemmas in research and healthcare, fostering a commitment to social responsibility and ethical decision-making in the development and implementation of health interventions and policies.
4. Strengthen students' leadership capabilities and communication skills to effectively collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and engage diverse stakeholders, driving innovation and positive change in the field of Cancer Biology and Therapeutics.
5. Instill a culture of continuous learning and professional development, encouraging graduates to remain at the forefront of emerging trends, technologies, and advancements in Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, thereby contributing to the field's evolution.
6. Inspire students to make original contributions to the scientific community through the publication of high-quality research, participation in conferences, and collaboration with industry partners, advancing the understanding and treatment of cancer.
7. Enable students to acquire specialized knowledge in specific areas of cancer biology and therapeutics, such as immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and personalized medicine, positioning them as experts in their chosen fields.
8. Encourage students to engage in international collaborations and research initiatives, broadening their perspectives and enhancing the global impact of their work in Cancer Biology and Therapeutics.

Admission Requirements

1. Five O' Level credit passes in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
2. Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Bioscience, Veterinary or Human Medicine, Health Sciences, or relevant fields from Usmanu Danfodiyo University or other recognized institutions, with at least a Second-Class Lower Division or equivalent. Any other qualification deemed acceptable by the Board of Postgraduate School and Senate of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.
3. Master’s degree in Cancer Biology and Therapeutics or any Biomedical Sciences such as Biochemistry, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Pharmacy, Microbiology, Veterinary or Human Medicine, and other Health Sciences fields with a minimum of 2 years in active cancer research, from Usmanu Danfodiyo University or other recognized institutions.
4. In addition to i-iii above, the candidate must satisfy the matriculation requirements of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. Any other qualification deemed acceptable by the Board of Postgraduate School and Senate of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.

Mode of Study

The programme shall run on full-time and part-time bases and shall be by course work and research.

Duration

Full-time: Minimum of 36 months, maximum of 60 months.
Part-time: Minimum of 60 months, maximum of 84 months.

Tuition Fee

As may be determined by the University from time to time.

Career Opportunities

• Academicians in Higher Education institution
• Career in cancer research in healthcare sector
• Research Scientists in cancer drug development

Areas of Specialization

1. Molecular and Cellular Oncology
2. Tumor Immunology
3. Cancer Genetics and Genomics
4. Experimental Therapeutics
5. Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention
6. Translational Oncology
7. Radiation Biology and Oncology
8. Cancer Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
9. Cancer Stem Cells and Metastasis
10. Cancer Chemotherapy and Drug Resistance
11. Cancer Pharmacology
12. Signal Transduction in Cancer
13. Cancer Microenvironment and Inflammation

Graduation Requirements

1. Submit and defend a PhD research Thesis:
   • Within a minimum of 30 and maximum of 60 months of first registration for full-time students.
   • Within a minimum of 60 and maximum of 84 months of first registration for part-time students.
2. Submit and defend a research proposal:
   • Within 18 months of first registration, where the defense was not successful, it shall be before the expiration of 24 months from the first registration for full-time students. Failure to present and defend the proposal within the specified time, the candidate shall be withdrawn.
   • Within 24 months of first registration, where the defense was not successful, it shall be before the expiration of 36 months from the first registration for part-time students. Failure to present and defend the proposal within the specified time, the candidate shall be withdrawn.
3. Register and pass 12 credit units of taught courses.
4. Conduct, defend, and submit original research work of 16 credit units which shall be embodied in a thesis and shall be graded.
5. Present a minimum of two (2) seminar papers in the area of their research.
6. Publish a minimum of two (2) articles in a reputable peer-reviewed journal(s) in the area of their research.
7. Applicants with Master’s degrees in biomedical sciences but without relevant 2 years’ experience in cancer research must undertake and pass all the relevant taught courses offered at the MSc Cancer Biology and Therapeutics level to make up for the credit units requirements for graduation as an expert in cancer biology and therapeutics.

List of Courses

COURSE CODE	COURSE TITLE	UNITS
Core Courses
CBT 917	Advanced Molecular Analytical Techniques	3
CBT 923	Advanced Molecular Analytical Techniques	3
CBT 925	Advanced Cancer Technologies and Clinical Research	3
CBT 927	Advanced Genomic Approaches to Cancer	3
CBT 930	Thesis	16