SRI RAMACHANDRA

INSTITUTE OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND RESEARCH

(DEEMED TO BE UNIVERSITY)
PORUR, CHENNAI - 600 116

REGULATIONS FOR
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY (Ph.D.)
(Revised August, 2018)

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 SRI RAMACHANDRA
INSTITUTE OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND RESEARCH
(DEEMED TO BE UNIVERSITY)
Porur, Chennai - 600116

REGULATIONS FOR
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY (Ph.D.)

In exercise of the powers conferred by Rule 12.1 (iv) B (a) of Memorandum of Association & Rules and
clause 21 of Bye-laws of Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (Deemed to be
University) , Porur, Chennai-600116, the Academic Council of the Deemed University hereby makes
the following Regulations, in conformity with University Grants Commission (Minimum Standards and
Procedure for Award of M.Phil/Ph.D. Degree) Regulations, 2016 and UGC guidelines communicated
from time to time:-

1. SHORT TITLE AND COMMENCEMENT

These Regulations shall be called "THE REGULATIONS FOR THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF
PHILOSOPHY (Ph.D.) OF SRI RAMACHANDRA INSTITUTE OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND RESEARCH
(DEEMED TO BE UNIVERSITY).

These revised Regulations shall come into force with effect from the academic year 2018 - 19and
are subject to such modifications as may be approved by the Academic Council from time to time.

2. ELIGIBILITY

Candidates applying for admission to Ph.D. program should have qualified with at least 55% marks in
aggregate or its equivalent grade “B”in the UGC 7-point scale (or an equivalent grade in a point scale
wherever grading system is followed) in PG course.

Further relaxation of5% marks i.e. from 55% to 50% or an equivalent relaxation of grade, may be
allowed for those belonging to SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently abled.

Candidates can register for admission to Ph.D. program under one of the following categories:-
a. Full time (Stipendary/Fellowship holders),
b. Integrated (MD/MS-Ph.D.- ICMR-TSS Fellowships)
c. Part Time: Internal
d. Part Time : Internal Independent
e. Part Time : External

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 2.1 Full Time Candidates (common provision)

Only such of those candidates who are stipendiary, including recipients of the Founder-Chancellor
Fellowship/ Integrated MD/MS-Ph.D. program (ICMR-TSS Fellowships)/or Fellowships in project
positions from funding agencies, industries, governmental and non-governmental agencies would
be considered for admission to Ph.D. program as full time research scholars.

In other words, candidates without any stipend/scholarship/fellowship/project positions cannot apply

for admission to Ph.D. Degree program under the Full-time research scholars category.
2.2 Full Time candidates in Faculty of Medicine
Every candidate who presents himself/herself for registration for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy
(Ph.D.) in Medicine, Surgery and other specializations must possess any one of the following
educational qualifications, awarded by this Deemed University or of any other University or any other
qualification recognized by this Deemed University as equivalent thereto:-
• Degree of Doctor of Medicine (D.M.);
• Degree of Master of Chirurgie (M.Ch.);
• Degree of Doctor of Medicine (M.D.);
• Degree of Master of Surgery (M.S.);
• Postgraduate Diploma in the Faculty of Medicine and
• Diplomate of National Board of Examinations of India

2.3 Full Time Candidates (Non-Medical Disciplines) in the Medical College, Dental College,
Pharmacy college, Nursing college, Physiotherapy, Allied Health Sciences College, Biomedical
Sciences C o l e g e & Technology College, Management Sciences College and Public Health
College.

A candidate who presents himself/herself for registration for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy
(Ph.D.) must possess any one of the following educational qualifications, awarded by this Deemed
University or of any other recognised University or any other qualification recognised by this Deemed
University as equivalent thereto:

 Master of Science in the Faculty of Medicine (M.Sc. - Non-medical 3 years course);

 Master's Degree in the Faculty of Dentistry/ Pharmacy/ Nursing/ Physiotherapy/ Allied Health
Sciences/ Biomedical Sciences & Technology/ Management/ Public Heath.

2.4 Part Time Research Candidates (Internal)

2.4.1 A candidate who fulfills the regulations as per the qualifications specified in the Regulations
(2.2 & 2.3 )and possesses at least one year continuous experience as teaching faculty /

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 researcher in a Department/Constituent college / Research Centre of this Deemed University on
the date of provisional registration, may be permitted to register himself/herself as a part time
scholar (internal) for Ph.D. Degree.

2.4.2 Notwithstanding anything contained in these regulations, those who are working in this
Deemed University as clinical instructor involved in clinical training may apply as part time internal
candidate on approval of appropriate authorities of the Deemed University
2.4.3 Attendance requirement:Part time Internal candidate shall be required to work under the
Research Supervisor directly at least for 60 days for instruction/discussion etc. during the
prescribed period of research work. Research Supervisor at this Deemed University shall submit
the certificate of attendance (with dates) to the Controller of Examinations along with six monthly
progress reports within the stipulated time frame.

2.5 Part Time Candidates (Independent Research)

2.5.1 Head of Department, Professor, Additional Professor or Associate Professor who is working
in any department of this University with not less than fifteen years of teaching experience of
which at least five years shall be at the postgraduate level and having a minimum of three
research publications in peer reviewed indexed (Scopus/ Web of Science/ PubMed) /UGC
approved list of Journals as first or corresponding author, is eligible to register for the Ph.D.
Degree without a supervisoras "Part time Independent Research Candidate".

2.5.2 Such candidates shall seek the guidance/assistance of not less than three experts in the
concerned field, who shall be members of faculties not below the rank of Associate Professors
and possess the qualifications and eligibility prescribed by the Deemed University for being a
supervisor.

2.5.3 The said three experts shall be members of the 'Research Advisory Committee' for the
respective ‘Part time Independent Research Candidate’ and conduct the Research Methodology
Examination for him/her at the end of the first year and send the report to the Controller of
Examinations as provided in these regulations. Out of the three members of the Research
Advisory Committee, one shall be the Convenor of the Committee as may be indicated by the
candidate. At the end of the prescribed period of research, the Research Advisory Committee
shall submit a panel of examiners for evaluation of Thesis and for conducting the public viva-voce
examination for the independent research candidate concerned.

2.5.4 He/she will be abide by all regulations as applicablefor part time candidates.

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 2.6 Part Time Research Candidates (External)

Notwithstanding anything contained in these regulations, candidates may be permitted to register for
the Ph.D. program on a part-time basis as external candidates if they satisfy the following:-

Any one of the qualifications prescribed under regulations (2.2 & 2.3) from this Deemed University
or from any other university recognised as equivalent thereto and

 employed as a teacher or scientist in National/State level institutions/Laboratories/

Research and Development (R&D) Centres/ Industries/ Universities in India and abroad,
satisfying the stipulations under Regulation 8;

 with experience as prescribed under regulations 2.4.1;and

 are permitted by their respective organizations to pursue research leading to the Ph.D.
Degree of this Deemed University on a part-time basis while continuing in employment.

2.6.1 Such external candidates shall necessarily have the Research Supervisor from this Deemed
University, and they shall also have a Research Co-Supervisor from the institution where they are
employed, provided that such experts are recognized as Research Supervisors for Ph.D. research
by this Deemed University. On no account there shall be relaxation of this condition.

2.6.2 Attendance requirement: External candidates are expected to do research in their place of
employment and in addition, should undergo such course work, examinations and research work as
may be prescribed for a minimum ofsix months during the research period directly under the
Research Supervisor at this University. The Research Co-Supervisor of the candidate at the place of
employment and the Research Supervisor at this Deemed University shall submit the certificate of
attendance (with dates) to the Controller of Examinations along with six monthly progress reports
within the stipulated time frame.

3. DURATION OF RESEARCH WORK

3.1 Full Time Candidates:

Candidates registered for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) as full time research scholars
shall undergo research work for a minimum period of THREE years from the date of provisional
registration.
However, for candidates with MD/ MS/ DNB/ MDS/ DM/ M.Ch. qualifications, the period of research
would be a minimum of TWO years.
He/she shall attend the department full time for research on all working days, except for periods
when he/she is allowed to visit other institutions/laboratories for activities connected with research
for short period as may be permitted by the Research Supervisor based on recommendations of
RAC.

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 3.2 Part Time Candidates:

All candidates registered for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) as part time research
scholars shall undergo research work for one more year than that prescribed for full-time
candidates, i.e., for a minimum period of FOUR years from the date of provisional registration.

Provided that in the case of Part time candidates under disciplines of Medicine and Dentistry with
MD/ MS/ DNB/ MDS /DM/ M.Ch qualifications, the minimum period of research shall be THREE
years.

3.3 Maximum Duration:

3.3.1. The maximum period of research for both full time and part time candidates under all
disciplines shall not exceed SIX years from the date of provisional registration.

3.3.2. Women candidates and persons with disability (more than 40%) will be permitted a relaxation
of 2 years in the maximum duration.

4. REGISTRATION SESSIONS

4.1 There shall be two sessions in each year for provisional registration of candidates for the
st st
Degree of Doctor of Philosophy.( Ph. D)1 April & 1 October

4.2 The tentative schedule of Ph.D. Entrance Examination and Provisional Registration for Ph.D.
Program for Full Time & Part Time is as follows:-

For April Session For October session

i. Releaseof Advertisement December/January July/August

ii. EntranceExamination January / February August / September

iii. Publicationof Results/Counseling January / February August / September

iv. Counseling March September

v. Lastdatefor applyingfor March September

ProvisionalRegistrationfor

st st
vi. Date of ProvisionalRegistration 1 April 1 October

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5. PROCEDURE FOR ADMISSION TO Ph.D.PROGRAM
5.1.1 Candidates wishing to apply for admission to Ph.D. program under Full Time (seekingFounder-
Chancellor Shri N.P.V. Ramasamy Udayar Fellowships) and Part Time (internal and external)
categorieswill have to qualify through entrance examination.

5.1.2 Candidates who have qualified the (i) UGC/ CSIR/ ICMR/DBT/DST NET-JRF/AICTE-
GATE/AYUSH/INSPIRE Fellowship or having qualified other UGC recognized national eligibility test
with a valid fellowship at the time of entrance exam or(ii) work in funded research projects as
JRF/SRF in the Deemed University are exempted from appearing for Entrance Examination and
interview and they will be called directly for counseling and admission.

5.2 Performance of the candidate will be calculated on written test (70% weightage) and interview
(30% weightage).The qualifying marks for provisional admission to Ph.D. program is 50% in the
entrance examination i.e. aggregate of marks obtained in written test and interview taken together).

5.3 Syllabus and Pattern of Entrance Examination:

(a) Syllabus for Entrance Examination is available in the website www.sriramachandra.edu.in

(b) The duration of the examination will be 2 (two) hours.
(c) The Entrance Examination will be conducted in ENGLISH only. The question booklet will
consist of 120 multiple choice questions (single best response).
(d) The written test will have two sections, Section A & B.
 Section-A Research Methodology: Common to all disciplines will have 60 questions
(answer all questions)
 Section-B Discipline Specific: Candidates will attempt questions from one of the
following:-
Medicine/ Dentistry/ Pharmacy/ Nursing/ Physiotherapy/ Biomedical Sciences/
Management/ Allied Health Sciences/ Public Health.

The Section-B will have 75 questions and the candidate may attempt any 60 questions.
The first 60 questions attempted will be considered for evaluation.

5.4 The Vice-Chancellor/Dean (Research) will constitute the Committee for conducting Interviews for
Provisional Admission for Ph.D. program. The Dean (Research) will be the Chair of the Admission
Committee with representatives from concerned disciplines.

5.5 During the interview each candidate will beexamined aboutmotivation to apply for Ph.D. at this
Deemed University,his educational background, Mastersthesis or previous research experience, and
career goals in the future.

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 5.6 The marks obtained in entrance examination are valid only for two consecutive admission
sessions from date of qualifying in the Entrance examination. Candidates may if required, request in
writing to defer provisional registration to the next immediate session.

5.7 Those candidates who fulfill all criteria for provisional registration as per regulations (including
those candidates who hold approvedscholarships /fellowships) will be called for counseling.

5.8 Counseling will be held at the Deemed University campus and those eligible will be notified to
attend the counseling on the specified date and time.

5.9 During counseling, Founder-Chancellor Fellowships will be offered to those full time eligible
candidates. Guidance to identify Research Supervisors will also be provided to the candidates.

5.10 After counseling all eligible candidates will be issued ‘application for Provisional Registration’ for
Ph.D. program.

6. APPLICATION FOR PROVISIONAL REGISTRATION (COMMON TO ALL CANDIDATES)

6.1 A candidate applying for provisional registration shall submit an application complete in all
respects along with theprescribed fee, within the stipulated time furnishing the following information:-
6.1.1 Qualifications with photocopies of degree certificates and details of previous study and
research if any, and full particulars of publications (with reprints) to his/her credit in accredited
journals;

6.1.2 “Broad area of proposed research”:

(Exact title of proposed thesis need not be given at this stage)

6.1.3.Acceptance letters of Research Supervisor/Co-Supervisor if identified by the research scholar

should be enclosed,before acceptance the Research Supervisor/ Co-Supervisor should satisfy
themselves that;

(i) The candidate possesses the necessary aptitude and competence for the proposed Ph.D.
research, with critical and analytical ability and adequate background in the broad field of research,

(ii) The proposed field of research falls within the area of expertise of Research Supervisor and
Research Co-Supervisor

(iii) Adequate facilities best clinical materials are available in this Deemed University and also in the
place of research in respect of part time external candidates)for research area proposed by the
candidate.

(iv) The proposed area of research can contribute to new/additional knowledge.

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 6.1.4 Applications of candidates(Part Time External) who intend to carry out research in the
institution in which they are working shall enclose acceptance of the proposed Research
Supervisor from this University and Research Co-Supervisor, Head of the Department and NOC
from Head of the Institution where the candidate is employed.

6.2. Every candidate provisionally registered for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
shall be required to carry out research work under the supervision of a Research Supervisor (and
Research Co-Supervisor, wherever applicable) and the Research Advisory Committee and undergo
such courses of instruction as may be advised by them.

6.3 Every candidate recommended by the Ph.D. Admission Committee for provisional registration,
after satisfying the requirements prescribed under these Regulations shall, after approval by the
Vice-Chancellor, be provisionally registered for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). The list
of such candidates, with full details, shall be placed before the next meeting of the Board of
Management for ratification and also be placed before the Academic Council for information.

7. QUALIFICATIONS FOR RESEARCH SUPERVISOR/RESEARCH CO-SUPERVISOR

7.1 A full time faculty/scientist desiring to be recognised as a Research Supervisor, shall apply in the
prescribed application form (VIDE ANNEXURE-I(a) formedical andANNEXURE-I(b) for non
Medicalapplication format).This shall be placed before the Dean (Research) for making suitable
recommendations to the Vice-Chancellor for approval or otherwise as a Ph.D. Research Supervisor.
On such approval, the Research Supervisor will be intimated that he\she has been recognized as a
Research Supervisor for Ph.D. research.

7.2 To be recognized as a Research Supervisor/ Co-Supervisor/Member of RAC for Ph.D. the

faculty/scientist shall have qualification, experience and publications as described below:-

Qualification Teaching/research Number of Publications in peer reviewed

experience after indexed (Scopus/ Web of Science/ PubMed)
highest degree journals/UGC approved list of Journals as
firstor corresponding author
Ph.D. 2 years 4

DM/M.Ch./ 2 years 4
DNB in super speciality

MD/MS/DNB/MDS 4 years 4

7.3 Emeritus Scientists/ Emeritus Professors/ Visiting Professors/ Fellows of the Departments/
Constituent Colleges of this Deemed University or teachers who are reemployed after their

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 superannuation and satisfying the conditions prescribed for recognition as Research Supervisors,
may be permitted to Supervise. Ph.D. scholar (full-time and part-time).

7.4 4A Supervisor shall not undertake to offer guidance for Ph.D. work for more than SIX candidates
(including part-time scholars) at a time. However for reckoning the number of candidates under a
supervisor, the number of candidates for whom he/she is acting as a co-supervisor shall not be taken
into account. The number of candidates for whom a supervisor can act as a co-supervisor shall not
exceed FOUR after ascertaining the number of scholars under their supervision.

7.5 For the purpose of reckoning the number of candidates (both full-time and part-time) under a
Research Supervisor (or Co-Supervisor) those candidates who have submitted their synopsis of the
theses to the Controller of Examinations, shall not be taken into account.

7.6 List of recognised researchers of this Deemed University under each faculty, their area of research
interest and number of research scholars registered under them will be available at the university
website. This will be updated from time to time.

7.7 A Research Supervisor shall not enroll fresh candidates for the Ph.D. Degree program unless
he/she has at least one year of service before retirement / superannuation (i.e. 58 years). A Research
Supervisor who has more than one year of service before retirement/superannuation may enroll
candidates and continue as Research Supervisor even after retirement / superannuation in respect of
such candidates.

7.8 The maximum age limit for a Research Supervisor to supervise a Ph.D. candidate is 65 years of
age. It may be extended beyond 65 years in exceptional cases of expertise, provided he/she is
associated with the Deemed University in a teaching/research position, with the approval by the Vice-
Chancellor.

7.9 Emeritus Scientists/ Emeritus Professors/ Visiting Professors/ Fellows of the University
Departments/ Constituent Colleges of this University or teachers recognized as research supervisors
shall not be allowed to register fresh candidates if they have completed 70 years of age on the date of
provisional registration of the candidates(s).

7.10 A research supervisor shall not undertake to offer guidance for Ph.D. work to any of his/her first
degree relatives.

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 8. RECOGNISED INSTITUTIONS FOR Ph.D. PROGRAM

Every candidate who has registered for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) shall pursue
research under the supervision of a Research Supervisor in any one of the following Departments/
Institutions, wherever applicable recognized by the Deemed University, namely:-

8.1 Any Department of this Deemed University.

8.2 Postgraduate Departments of recognized Universities or Colleges situated within the country
having necessary facilities for carrying out research in the branch of study concerned, provided the
Department has been offering the postgraduate course in the branch of study concerned for a
minimum period of THREE years. (e.g., M.Sc. Nursing in Surgical Nursing recognized by
INC/M.Pharmacy–Pharmaceutics recognized by AICTE/PCI).

8.3 All India Research Institutions, Regional Research Institutions, other Non-teaching Research
Institution and industries having necessary facilities for carrying research in the branch of study
concerned with the Deemed Medical University and have collaboration/MoU.

9. RESEARCH ADVISORY COMMITTEE

9.1 There shall be a Research Advisory Committee consisting of Research Supervisor, Co-Supervisor
(wherever applicable) and RAC member(s) for each research scholar constituted by the Vice-
Chancellor based on the recommendations of Dean (Research) drawn from the panel of four
memberssubmitted by the Research Supervisor.

9.2 Each member of the Research Advisory Committee shall be a recognized or be eligible to be
recognized as a Research Supervisor for scholars for Ph.D. program, as per the requirements under
the Regulations 7.

9.3 In the case of Part Time (External) Research Scholar, there shall be a Research Supervisor
from this Deemed University as Convenor and a Co-Supervisor from his/her institution and one
Research Advisory Committee member.

9.4 Any change in the membership of the Research Advisory Committee shall be effected only on
approval by the Vice-Chancellor.

9.5 The Research Advisory Committee shall be functional till the end of public viva-voce

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examination for monitoring and advising scholars for whose thesis examiners have recommended
modifications, corrections, etc., to be incorporated in the thesis before the public viva-voce
examination to defend thesis.

9.6 Functions of Research Advisory Committee: The Research Advisory Committee shall monitor
the research work of the scholar. The RAC shall meet at least bi-annually (period from April to
September&period from October to March). The minutes of the RAC meeting should be appended
along with the six-month progress report.

9.6.1 The meetings of the RAC will be held only at the Deemed University campus. Under
unavoidable circumstances if onemember of the RAC (Co-Supervisor or RAC member) is unable to
attend a scheduled meeting in person, then he/she can participate via teleconference.This should be
intimated to Academic Officer in advance. The minutes of the RAC will be circulated and signatures
obtained from members of the RAC.

9.6.2At each RAC meeting,the members should

 Reviewwork book, attendance and progress based on records submitted by scholar and
presentation made by scholar.

 Approve the six month report of the preceding 6 months to be submitted as per schedule,

 Discuss matters relating to the scholar’sresearch study including timelines, publications or

presentations, conferences, finalizing protocols etc.,

 Identify proposed dates of RAC meeting and agenda/plan of action for next 6-12 months.

9.6.3The RAC should within the first 6 monthsfrom date of provisional registration (in addition to
items included in 9.6.2)

 Specify protocols/mechanism for monitoring of progress (work book, meetings, etc.)

 Determine the required course work for the scholar.

 Approve and forward to Controller of Examination through Academic Officer the Syllabus for
Research Methodology Examination in the prescribed format(ANNEXURE :II).

 Review the research proposal of the scholar

 Guide the scholar for submission of proposal to InstitutionalEthicsCommittee .

 Finalize the six-month report and date for next meeting well ahead of the Research
methodology examination.

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 9.6.4 The RAC should in the first 12 monthsfrom date of provisional registration (in addition to items
included in 9.6.2)

 Approve/ finalize the research proposal and working title of the proposed thesis.

 Review the application and annexures for submission for approval of Institutional Ethics
Committee

 Review progress of systematic review for submission at the time of RME examination

 Forward to Controller of Examination the question paper for Research Methodology Exam as
per annexure : II.

9.6.5 The RAC should, by 24 months (for full time scholars) and 30 months (for part time
scholars)approve the presentation for Ph.D. Program Review-I to be made by the Scholar and after
the review certify that recommendations made by the committee have been addressed.

9.6.6 The RAC should before the submission of Synopsisapprove the presentation for Ph.D.
Program Review-II to be made by the Scholar and after the review, certify that recommendations
made by the committee have been addressed.

10. PROGRESS OF RESEARCH

10.1 Course work: All scholars should complete the coursework as detailed below before appearing
for Research Methodology Examination.

Sl. No. Course Credits Instructional method

1. i) Research Methodology & Bio-statistics 4 Course conducted at DU

ii) Computer Applications
iii) CITI India –Online Bioethics course

2. Advanced course/Analytical/Instrumentation training 3 Theory/practical

in area of research Workshop/Training or
combination

3. Elective course** 2
(to be chosen by scholar related to broad area of
research)
**online proctored courses may be permitted

4. 3 Independent study
Critical Review, Meta-analysis and Research
submission and Viva-
Proposal including Viva-Voce
Voce
*Viva-Voce

10.2 Work book: Every Ph.D. scholar shall maintain a work book of research activities undertaken on
the study. The RAC will determine the mechanism for submission and review for scholars both part
time and full time. This work book will be reviewed at every RAC meeting.

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10.3 Six-monthly reports: Every scholar will submit 6 month report to the RAC in the prescribed
format (VIDEANNEXURE-III) along with required enclosures. This will be forwarded by Research
Supervisor to the Academic Officer as per the schedule given below.

Period of six-month reports Last date for submission

st th st
From 1 April to 30 September 31 October
st st th
From 1 October to 31 March 30 April

10.3.1 A copy of the six-month reports shall be made available to the Ph.D. scholar as well as
HOD/ Dean /Principalof the Faculty in which the scholar is registered.

10.3.2 If the progress of the research scholar is found unsatisfactory by the Research
Advisory Committee, it shall record the reasons for the same, and suggest corrective measures.
If the scholar fails to implement these corrective measures within a period of three months, the
Research Advisory Committee may recommend with justification the cancellation of the
registration by the Vice-Chancellor. This should be submitted to the Vice-Chancellor through the
Academic Officer and copy provided to Controller of Examinations.

10.3.3 Failure to submit two consecutive six monthly progress reports will entail cancellation of
registration of the scholar by the Vice-Chancellor on a report made by the Research Supervisor
to the Academic Officer in this regard.

10.4 Review meetingsScholars will also complete reviews as detailed below.

Review Time frame Nature of Review Outcome

rd
Research At the end of 3 month Presentation before the Ph.D. Advisory
Proposal from the date of Admission Committee for review of
Review provisional registration Ph.D. Research Proposal.

Ph.D. Program 24months(Full time ) Presentationbefore university level Advisory

Review -I or committeeappointed by Dean
24 months /30 months (Research). The Committee will
(Part time) include subject experts, senior
professors, university officers and
RAC.

Ph.D. Program Prior to submission of Presentationbefore university level Approval to

Review -II synopsis committee The committee will be submit
chaired by Vice-Chancellor will synopsis
include Dean (Research), COE,
Senior Professors, University Officers,
subject experts and RAC

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11. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY EXAMINATION
11.1 At the end of the first year after provisional registration and on completion of such course work
of instruction, there shall be a Part-I Research Methodology Examination conducted in the Deemed
University premises. The Provisional Registration for Ph.D. Program will be confirmed on passing
this examination.

11.2 Scheme of Examination(syllabusas given in Annexure-II)

Course Credits for University Exam. Marks Grand
Course Title program total
Credits (C) Theory Practical
1. Research Methodology, Biostatistics and 4 100 - 100
Computer Applications in Research

2. Advanced course/Analytical 3 100 - 100

Instrumentation training in area of
research

3. Electives 2 100 - 100

(to be chosen by scholar relating to broad
area of research)
4. Critical Reviews, Meta-analysis and 2 100 100
Research Proposal*

5. Viva-Voce 1 100 100

12 300 200 500
Total
*Viva-voce will be conducted relating to submission (Critical Reviews, Meta-analysis and Research Proposal)
made by scholar.

Passing Minimum:
40% of marks in each paper including Viva-Voce and

55% of marks in aggregate in Theory, Practical and Viva-Voce Examinations ➟ 275/500

Note: The completion of course work (including CITI-IndiaOnline Bioethics course) is a

st
precondition to appear for the Research Methodology Examinationat the end of 1 year.

11.3 The Research Supervisor shall be the Convenor of the Research Methodology Examination.
Every scholar shall be examined by the Research Advisory Committee by written and viva voce
examination to assess his/her skills. Grades/Marks in the course work, including research
methodology courses shall be finalised after a combined assessment by the Research Advisory
Committee. The detailed report submitted by the Research Supervisor/Convenor duly attested by
the other members shall contain the details of procedure followed for the written evaluation,
experimental models, Viva-Voce etc., and the percentage of marks secured by the scholar as per
the standard format.

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 11.4 The report shall also specify the fitness of the scholar to proceed with the research work for the
Degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and shall be submitted by the Research Supervisor/
Convenor to the Controller of Examinations within 15days from the date of the Research
Methodology Examination.

11.5 The Ph.D. scholar shall obtain a minimum of 55% of marks in aggregate or its equivalent grade
in the UGC 7-point scale (or an equivalent grade/CGPA in a point scale wherever grading system is
followed) in the course work in order to be eligible to continue in the Ph.D. program.

11.6 If any research scholar fails to qualify in the Research Methodology Examination, he/she should
undergo the course for a further period of six months. At the end of the said period, he/she shall be
examined again by the same Research Advisory Committee and if found fit, he/she shall be
permitted to proceed with the research work. The minimum period of research prescribed for
submission of thesis shall be extended by 6 more months in such cases.

11.7 A research scholar who does not qualify even at the second attempt, shall not be permitted to
continue his/her research work and his/her provisional registration shall be cancelled by the Vice-
Chancellor.

11.8 If a scholar fails to take the Research Methodology Examination at the end of the first year
after provisional registration, without any prior approval/permission his/her provisional registration
shall be cancelled by the Vice-Chancellor without any further reference to the scholar.

11.9 In extraordinary circumstances, a request may be made with appropriate justification for
extension of time to appear for Research Methodology Examination, to be considered by the Vice-
Chancellor. Such a request must be forwarded by the RAC and submitted in advance of the dates of
the Research methodology examinations. The maximum period of extension granted will be 6
months. Failure to appear for RME beyond this period will result in cancellation of his/her provisional
registration by the Vice-Chancellor without any further reference to the scholar.

12. CONFIRMATION OF PROVISIONAL REGISTRATION

12.1 The provisional registration of a scholar for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) shall be
confirmed only on

(i)Receiptof the report of passing the Research Methodology Examination conducted by the
Research Advisory Committee/Controller of Examinations andafterapprovalof the Vice-
Chancellor.

(ii))Submission of letter of approval by the specified ethics committee to COE.

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 12.2 After confirmation of the provisional registration, the scholar shall pursue research work for the
period prescribed in the Regulations under the guidance of the Research Supervisor(Co-Supervisor,
if any) and the Research Advisory Committee.

13. CHANGE OF FIELD OF RESEARCH

If a change of field of research becomes necessary, the research scholar should make a requisition
seeking permission for change duly recommended by the Research Supervisor and RAC within one
year from the date of provisional registration. Permission for change of field of research may be
granted by the Vice-Chancellor considering the merit of each such request. No further change in the
field of research shall be permitted thereafter.

14. CHANGE OF RESEARCH SUPERVISORS AND TRANSFER OF SCHOLARS

14.1 Transfer of Ph.D. scholars from one Research Supervisor to another Research Supervisor can
be effected, if mutual willingness is given by both the original and proposed Research Supervisor,
for valid reasons with the approval of Vice-Chancellor.

14.2 In the case of change of Research Supervisors or transfer of scholars is proposed by the
scholars with specific reasons and without the consent of any one of the parties concerned, the
matter shall be referred to the Board of Research Studies, for making suitable recommendations to
the Vice-Chancellor, whose decision will be final.

14.3 The Research Supervisors who wish to avail leave/lien/deputation beyond a period of six
months shall nominate a Co-Supervisor in the subject concerned for the scholar(s) registered with
them and the fact intimated to the Controller of Examinations through Academic Officer in advance,
for getting the approval of the Vice-Chancellor.

14.4 If the Research Supervisor has not made any such nomination, it will be open to the Vice-
Chancellor to appoint the Research Supervisor from among the members of Research Advisory
Committee

15. CHANGE OF INSTITUTION OF RESEARCH BY SCHOLARS

If any scholar during the period of research leaves the institution in which he/she has originally
registered for the Ph.D. degree and desiring to continue his/her research in another institution in
which he/she has now joined, can do so only with the prior approval of the Vice-Chancellor who
may grant approval, provided such institution is approved for conduct of Ph.D. Research,
satisfying the conditions prescribed in these Regulations and an eligible Co-Supervisor is available
in that institution. In other cases, the Vice-Chancellor may seek the recommendations of the Board
of Research Studies before taking a decision in the matter.

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16. CONVERSION OF FULL-TIME REGISTRATION INTO PART-TIME AND VICE-VERSA

Notwithstanding anything prescribed in these Regulations, the Deemed University may permit
conversion from Full-time research to Part-time research and vice-versa in respect of scholars
registered, for valid reasons and subject to satisfying the Regulations in force after approval of the
Vice Chancellor.

Provided that in the case of conversion from full-time research to part-time research, the whole
period put in by the scholar, will be taken into account for purposes of reckoning the minimum
period of research to be put in by the scholar and in the case of conversion from part-time research
to full-time, 2/3 of the research period put in as part-time will be taken into account for purposes of
reckoning the minimum period of research to be put by the scholar, to become eligible to submit the
Ph.D. thesis.

17. CANCELLATION OF Ph.D. REGISTRATION

17.1 In case of recommendation for cancellation of the registration by the Research Supervisor
based on reasons listed under regulations 10 and11thescholar shall be intimated about the grounds
on which the registration is being cancelled. In case of any representation from the scholar, it shall
be referred to the Board of Research Studies, which may either suggest cancellation depending on
the merit of the case. The decision of the Board of the Research Studies shall be final.

17.2 Where a scholar has not submitted the thesis within the period prescribed or has also failed to
do so within the extended period ofthe Ph.D.,the registration of such scholar shall stand lapsed
automatically and the scholar shall be discharged from the Ph.D.degree program.

18. TITLE OF THE THESIS

18.1 The working title of the Thesis of each research scholar shall be intimated to the Academic
Officer and forwarded to Controller of Examinations by the Research Supervisor when the scholar
qualifies the Research Methodology Examination.

18.2 The exact title of the Thesis shall be intimated to the Controller of Examinations at the time of
submission of the synopsis. No change of Title of the Thesis shall be considered after the
submission of synopsis.

19. SUBMISSION OF SYNOPSIS

19.1 This step will be considered process / evaluation prior to the finalisation of doctoral thesis.

19.2 The synopsis shall be submitted by each scholar at least three months, prior to the expiry of the
period of research prescribed and before the submission of the thesis.

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19.3 Prior to submission of synopsis the scholar is required to present the entire completed research
work to the Ph.D. Program Review-II committee, for review and approval of synopsis.

19.4 Once approved by the Ph.D. Program Review-II committee, the scholar can submit the
synopsis, along with application and prescribed fee. The Research Supervisor and Co-Supervisor
(wherever applicable) will certify that the corrections/ modifications, if any, suggested by the
committee have been incorporated by the scholar in the synopsis.

19.5 The application for submission of synopsis will be issued after “No Due certificate”is obtained
from the Department, Finance sectionand Academic Office. The scholar will pay the Annual
Research fee until the submission of his/her thesis.

19.6 The completed Synopsis application, (Four hard copies and onesoft copy) of the synopsis along
with copy of receipt of payment of synopsis submission fee should be submitted to Controller of
Examinations through the Research Supervisor.

19.7 The title page, cover format, type and size of fonts to be used for synopsis, should strictly
conform to the format prescribed (ANNEXURE-IV)

19.8 It is mandatory that each scholar need to have 2 publications/acceptance letters of at least two
publications out of their Ph.D. research as first author in indexed peer reviewed (SCOPUS, WoS,
PubMed) or in UGC approved journals at the time of submission of the synopsis.

20. SUBMISSION OF THESIS

20.1 Every scholar shall along with his/her application for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy
(Ph.D.), submit Four hard copies of the Thesis and soft copyalong with the prescribed fee to the
Controller of Examinations through the Research Supervisor/Research Advisory Committee.The title
page of the thesis, cover format, etc., should strictly conform to the format of presentation as
prescribed (ANNEXURE-V) and the thesis (all copies) should carry a declaration by the scholar
and certificate duly signed and issued by the Research Supervisor and Co-Supervisor, if any.

20.2 The scholars shall include a certificate that any of the standard software/platforms (approved
by this Deemed University) was used for checking thesis for plagiarism.

20.3 Supplementary papers if any to the Thesis like copies of reprints of publication as
contribution to the knowledge on the subject must be appended to the thesis by the research
scholar.
20.4 If the thesis is accepted/ approved, the Controller of Examinations shall place a copy of the

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 thesis in the library. The scholar should also submit one hard copy and one electronic copy after the
public viva-voce examination incorporating all the corrections suggested by the examiners which will
be preserved in the digital archive of the Deemed University. After award of the Ph.D. degree the
summary of each thesis, along with details of the scholars would be uploaded in Shodhganga
repository.

21. EXTENSION OF TIME TO SUBMIT Ph.D. THESIS

21.1 The Thesis shall ordinarily be submitted not later than 6 years from the date of provisional
registration and subject to provisions under Regulations 3.3.

21.2 Where a research scholar is unable to submit the thesis within the maximum period prescribed,
extension of time(, up to one year) for submission of thesis may be granted by the Vice-Chancellor
on the recommendation of the Research Supervisor and Research Advisory Committee for valid
reasons, on payment of such penal fee as may be prescribed by the Deemed University.

21.3 If the scholar fails to submit thesis, even after extension of time so granted, his /her registration
will automatically lapseand his/her name will be taken off the rolls of registered scholarsfor the Ph.D.
program.

22. EXAMINERS
22.1 While forwarding the synopsis to the Controller of Examinations, the Research Advisory
Committee will furnish a panel of nine external examiners (three from the Southern States, three
from the rest of India and three from abroad) for evaluation of the Thesis and for the conduct of
public viva-voce examination as per the format to be obtained from the Controller of
Examinations.All external examiners must meet the same eligibility criteria (as per Regulations 7)
required for being recognized as ‘Research Supervisor for Ph.D.’ in this Deemed University.

22.2 The Research Advisory Committee shall along with the panel enclose a certificate stating that
all the examiners suggested are experts in the discipline concerned and qualified to evaluate the
thesis and that they are not first degree relatives of the scholar.

22.3 The Vice-Chancellor shall, from out of the panel of nine examiners, select and appoint three
examiners (one from the Southern States, preferably one from the rest of India and one from
abroad). The examiners so appointed will be furnished with a copy of the synopsis for their
perusal and they will be requested to convey their acceptance within four weeks to evaluate the
thesis to be submitted by the research scholar subsequently.

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 22.4 In case the first panel of nine names of Ph.D. examiners are unable to accept the
examinership, the Controller of Examinations shall call for an additional panel of examiners from the
Research Advisory Committee. If the additional panel is also unable to accept the examinership, the
Vice-Chancellor shall appoint examiner(s) as required in consultation with experts in the relevant
discipline.

23. VALUATION OF THESIS AND PUBLIC VIVA VOCE EXAMINATION TO DEFENDTHESIS

23.1 The thesis shall be referred for valuation to three examiners as specified in these Regulations.

23.2 The Examinerswho evaluate the thesis shall report to the Controller of Examinations on the
merit of the Thesis for Ph.D. Degree as "Highly Commended", "Commended" or "Not Commended"
in the format prescribed,along with a detailed report. If all three Examiners commend the thesis,
such reports of the examiners will be sent to the Research Supervisor who will act as Convenorand
he/she will prepare a consolidated report which shall include the main points made in the individual
reports together with a reference to critical comments and suggestions, if any, made by the
examiners.The scholar will thenbe permitted to defend his/her thesis in a public Viva Voce
examination.

23.3 If one of the external examiners (India or abroad) reports the evaluation of the thesis as “Not
Commended”, the Vice-Chancellor, having regard to the nature of the comments of the examiner
who has “Not commended”the thesis, may at his discretion, refer the thesis to a fourth examiner for
evaluation and the fourth examiner so appointed shall be same category i.e. from Southern
India,/rest of India / from abroad. The fourth examiner, so appointed, will not be provided with the
report of the other examiners. If the fourth examiner reports the evaluation of the thesis
as “Commended”the scholar will be asked to defend his/her thesis in a public Viva prescribed in
these regulations. If the fourth examiner also does not “Commend”the thesis the scholar has to
resubmit the thesis, after revision.

23.4 A scholar whose thesis has not been commended as specified above will be permitted to
resubmit it a second time after carrying out additional work suggested and revising the thesis within
a period of one year from the date of communication of the Controller of Examinations in this regard.

23.5 If none of the examiners who evaluated the thesis is available at the time of Public Viva-Voce,
another examiner from the panel may be appointed by the Vice-Chancellor and such examiner will
be provided with a copy of the thesis and reports of all the three examiners, well in advance before
the date of Public Viva-Voce examination to defend thesis.

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 23.6 At least six external teachers and/or scientists in the specialty concerned or allied specialtyshall
be invited to be present at the public Viva-Voce in addition to the faculty members of the department
in which the scholar conducted research and such of the members of the faculties, research scholars
and students of the Deemed University as may be present. The Research Supervisor (Convenor)
shall convey to the Controller of Examinations the result of such public Viva-Voce, duly endorsed by
the external examiner together with a list of names and designations of the participants, with their
signatures.

23.7 The scholar successful in defending his/her thesis in the Public Viva-Voce Examination to
defend thesis shall be declared to have qualified for the Ph.D. Degree with effect from the date of the
Public Viva-Voce on approval by the Vice-Chancellor and the result will be placed before the Board
of Management at its next meeting, for ratification.

23.8 A scholar who is not successful public Viva –voce examination to defend thesiswill be
permitted to appear for the examination one more time within a period of three months.

23.9 No scholar shall be permitted to submit the thesis or defend his/her thesis for Ph.D. Degree for
more than two occasions.

24. LEAVE /BREAK OF STUDY

24.1 Full time Scholars can avail maximum of 15 days of leave in a calendar year.

24.2 Full time Women scholarscan avail maternity leave/child care leave only once in the entire
duration Ph.D. for upto 240 days.

25. FEE STRUCTURE FOR Ph.D.CANDIDATES

Application fee, registration fee, fee for recognition of degrees of other Universities, annual research
fee for extension of time and fee for submission of synopsis and thesis shall be payable by the
scholar as prescribed by the University from time to time. (ANNEXURE – VI)

26. PUBLICATION OF THE THESIS

An approved thesis may be published in full as a book or in parts only with the permission of the
Deemed University with due acknowledgment. (Vide Declaration form in the prescribed format)
However, a scholar can during the course of his/her research, publish papers in peer-
reviewed/indexed research journals as advised by his/her Research Supervisor, in accordance with
Regulations 20.8.

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27. DECISION BY VICE-CHANCELLOR

In all other matters not specifically covered under these regulations, the Vice-Chancellor may take a
decision having regard to the circumstances of the case, if deems necessary, he may refer the matter
to the Board of Research Studies, for suitable recommendations for taking a decision.

28. TRANSITORY PROVISION

These revised Ph.D. regulations shall come into effect from October 2018 session. However in the
case of scholar registered for Ph.D. program prior to the said session, the previous regulations shall
be applicable.

29. INTEGRATED Ph.D.

29.1 Emerging areas of medical and surgical specialities are in need of research qualified manpower
in view of strong operational knowledge requirement to bring about innovations in these areas which
are directly applicable to Community Health and Patient Care. Hence, notwithstanding the above
Ph.D. regulations, in order to encourage postgraduates in Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry (MD/ MS/
DM/M.Ch.) to take up the research specializations, an Integrated Ph.D. Full time program is evolved
with minimum period of FIVE YEARS duration and maximum period of SIX YEARS.

29.2 Scholarsduring the time of admission to MD/MS courses should exercise their option to
undergo the Integrated Ph.D. program and file the necessary application for registration within
TWO months of their admission to the postgraduate courses, through Dean Research.

29.3 There shall be a selection process through interview by the Ph.D. Admission Committee along
with invited national level experts, which may include those from funding agencies like ICMR

29.4 The first three years curriculum would be the same as that of MD/MS/DM/M.Ch.Curriculum
currently approved/ modified from time to time by MCI. In this sandwich Ph.D. program, the scholar
will take the Part–I Research Methodology examination at the end of the second year of the
postgraduate course. They will indicate the broad field of research during the second year of the
postgraduate course and the Dissertation for the MD/MS/DM/M.Ch. postgraduate examination may
form a part of their Ph.D. thesis to be submitted later.
29.4.1 except for the above all the provisions of the Ph.D. regulations will be applicable for
integrated Ph.D. program.

29.5 The Research Supervisor and/or Co-Supervisor shall submit a certificate of attendance of
scholar (with specific dates) to the Controller of Examinations along with half yearly progress report
as per the timelines prescribed.

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 29.6 The above Integrated program may also be made applicable to other scholarsundergoing the
Master’s courses in Non-clinical disciplines (Faculty of Medicine), Pharmacy, Nursing, Biomedical
Sciences & Technology and other allied health sciences courses, subject to framing suitable
Research Supervisory guidance for such integrated program for these disciplines and also subject to
availability of recognised Research Supervisors in the respective disciplines at theDeemed
University.

30. SPLIT Ph.D. PROGRAM:

The split Ph.D. program is designed to provide a chance to the scholar to conduct a portion of their
Ph.D. work in a recognized foreign university/ Institution or a recognised Indian University with which
Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (Deemed University) has signed an
academic and research MoU.

The basic objective of this scheme is to develop good research exposure to research scholars and
future collaborative research projects and to bring the international/National Universities and
research institutes and industries closer with the host Deemed University through Ph.D.
Program.While eligibility, admission procedures, duration, functions of Research Advisory
Committee, Research Methodology, thesis submission and valuation of thesis will be the same as
per the general Ph.D. regulations, the following would be the norms and Research Supervisory
guidance for conducting split Ph.D. Program.

The partnering institution in split Ph.D. Program should have signed an academic MoU with the
Deemed University.

The maximum period of research that can be conducted with the partnering institution shall
not exceed ONE YEAR. In case the scholar has spent longer than one year outside this University,
being the place of registration, only one year shall be reckoned with for purposes of record.

The expert under whom the scholar proposes to work for the split Ph.D. program shall be suggested
by the Research Supervisor/ or as a Co-Supervisor and he/she would also be a member of the
Research Advisory Committee.

The progress report of work done by the scholar in the external institution shall be submitted to the
Controller of Examinations through the Research Supervisor by the external expert/ Co-Supervisor
once in six months during the entire period of work under the split Ph.D. program

All financial commitments required for carrying out the research work at the partnering
institution shall be borne by the scholar concerned or as per the terms of the MoU.

The degree on successful completion would be awarded by Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher
Education and Research (Deemed to be University) only with a mention of the name of partnering
institution under the split Ph.D. program.

***

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