PhD Degrees
A four-year thesis-based degree offers an opportunity for independent research at an advanced level in preparation for careers in research, university teaching, and administration. It often builds on research skills gained in the MSc program. Students are required to complete 3 graduate level courses, two terms of registration in AFNS 601 Seminar course, 8 hours of Ethics, Professional Development, Candidacy Exam and research, write and defend a thesis.
The department offers world-class research divisions to compliment graduate studies in primary production and rangeland management, plant and animal sciences, food and agri-food products, and human nutrition and wellness.
Research topics include:Animal Science
Research on basic animal biology and livestock management with applications in the fields of animal physiology and metabolism, immunology, reproduction, animal housing, health and welfare, as well as genomics, bioinformatics and proteomics.
Plant Science
Studies in plant biology, applied ecology and agronomy within cereal, oilseed, forage and specialty crop production, incorporating plant biochemistry and proteomics, biotechnology, plant breeding and genomics, integrated pest management, as well as plant and field crop physiology.
Food Science and Technology
Food research encompassing chemistry, microbiology, physics, processing and sensory science with areas of excellence in cereal utilization, dairy science, food safety, functional foods and nutraceuticals, lipid utilization, and pre- and probiotics.
Nutrition and Metabolism
Clinical, community, metabolic and public health nutrition, as they relate to nutrition policy, infant and child health, and to chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and cancer. Animal based programs include livestock nutrition, feed evaluation and processing.
Bioresource and Food Engineering
Engineering applications related to bioresource utilization including food processing, bioproducts, bioenergy, biorefining, and agri-waste management.
Current Students
Students at the University of Alberta are responsible for the accuracy and completeness of their program requirements. They are bound by the contents of the University Calendar and standards contained therein.
Access Forms, Important Links, Department Website, and Graduate Program Manuals
Contact Us
Graduate Student Services Office
Email us to set up an appointment, or visit us during business hours on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.