PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion
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Prepared by Docthub Courses Team ∣
Last updated on 17 Oct 2025
Overview
A PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion is an advanced research program focused on the study of blood, blood components, and the immune system. It falls under the field of medical sciences, specifically in transfusion medicine and hematology. The course typically lasts 3-5 years, depending on the research scope. Students explore areas like blood group systems, transfusion reactions, blood safety, and immunological responses.Â

Table of Content
What is a PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion?
The PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion is an advanced research-focused program for medical professionals, educators, and aspiring practitioners who want to equip themselves with in-depth knowledge and hands-on training required in blood banking, transfusion medicine, and immunohematology. The course offers a curriculum integrating theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice in the field. Additionally, the program combines a rigorous structure with theoretical learning and practical training, enabling graduates to gain proficiency in blood group serology, transfusion reactions, component therapy, stem cell transplantation, and immunogenetics. The growing demand for these professionals makes this course highly valuable for those looking to specialize in this high-demand field.
Highlights:
| Particulars | PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion |
| Course Type | Doctoral |
| Duration | 3-5 Years (depending on institution) |
| Eligibility | MD/MS/MSc in Pathology, Hematology, or related fields |
| Admission Process | Entrance exam, interview, research proposal submission |
| Fees | Varies (some fully funded PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion options are available) |
| Colleges | AIIMS, New Delhi, CMC, Vellore, PGIMER, Chandigarh, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, KGMU, Lucknow, JIPMER, Puducherry, Manipal Academy, Manipal |
| Job Roles | Transfusion Medicine Specialist, Immunohematologist, Blood Bank Director, Research Scientist, Professor |
Eligibility:
For the certificate, candidates must hold an MD/MS in Pathology, Transfusion Medicine, or Hematology, or an MSc in Medical Lab Technology/Immunology with relevant experience. Some universities require qualifying exams like UGC-NET or INI-CET.
Duration:
Typically, the duration of the course spans 3-5 years, depending on research progress and thesis completion.
Fees:
The fees vary between ₹50,000–₹2,00,000 per year in government institutes. Private universities may charge higher, but fully funded PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion options are available through ICMR, DBT, and CSIR fellowships.
Who Should Do This Course?
The PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion admission offers exposure to several opportunities for candidates to excel in their fields and provides a good boost to their careers through the knowledge and skills gained in this course. Professionals with a strong interest in this field and seeking to advance their careers can opt for the course. Below are some of the details provided:
- MD/MS graduates seeking specialization in transfusion medicine.
- Lab scientists who are aiming for advanced research roles.
- Blood bank professionals who are looking to upgrade to leadership positions.
- Academicians aspiring to teach immunohematology at medical colleges.
Why Enroll in This Course?
Enrolling in a fully funded PhD in immunohematology and blood transfusion equips candidates’ skills that can help them address the related challenges through this course. The course opens the doors to working on niche roles. Furthermore, this course is essential for skill enhancement and career boost. Moreover, to get global recognition and diverse career exposure, candidates can also opt for this course. Below are the details provided:
- High demand: Blood transfusion specialists are critical in hospitals, research, and disaster management.
- Global scope: Opportunities in international blood banks, WHO collaborations, and biotech firms.
- Research potential: Contribute to innovations like artificial blood, rare blood type studies, and transfusion safety.
- Lucrative salaries: PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion salary ranges from ₹10–25 LPA in India, with higher packages abroad.
Entrance Exam:
Most institutes require UGC-NET, GPAT, or university-specific tests. AIIMS and PGIMER conduct INI-CET for MD/MS holders.
Admission Process:
- Submit application with academic transcripts.
- Clear entrance exam (if applicable).
- Interview & research proposal defense.
- Secure funding (fellowships/grants) for a fully funded PhD in immunohematology and blood transfusion
Syllabus:
| Phase | Topics Covered |
| Year 1 | Advanced Immunohematology, Blood Group Genetics, Transfusion Reactions. |
| Year 2 | Component Therapy, Hemovigilance, Stem Cell Transplantation. |
| Year 3-5 | Thesis work on topics like platelet immunology, autoimmune hemolytic disorders, or blood substitutes. |
Top Colleges:
- AIIMS, New Delhi – Premier institute with ICMR-funded projects.
- CMC, Vellore – Renowned for clinical transfusion research.
- PGIMER, Chandigarh – Strong focus on hemovigilance.
- Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai – Cancer-related transfusion studies.
- KGMU, Lucknow – Government-funded research in hematology.
- JIPMER, Puducherry – Integrated PhD programs.
- Manipal Academy, Manipal – International collaborations.
- NIMHANS, Bengaluru – Neuro-hematology research.
- SGPGIMS, Lucknow – Advanced blood banking techniques.
- SRM Institute, Chennai – Private sector leader.
Scope & Career Opportunities:
The PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion scope is expanding rapidly due to the rising demand for specialists. This course also acts as a knowledge booster as well as a skill enhancer and has immense applications in the current healthcare systems. Graduates are highly sought for pursuing this course, for instance, it enhances employability in clinical settings such as hospitals, research, and academia. The rising demand for specialists opens the door for national and international opportunities, enhancing employability. Below are some of the details provided on career scopes, PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion jobs, and opportunities:
- Transfusion Medicine Specialist: ₹12–25 LPA
- Blood Bank Director: ₹15–30 LPA
- Research Scientist (Biotech): ₹10–20 LPA
- Professor: ₹8–18 LPA
Salary:
Typically, after completion of the course, the PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion salary range is between ₹8-30 LPA in India, and may increase depending on roles and experiences. The candidates can get higher earnings of $80,000 in international opportunities in the U.S. and the Gulf areas.
Further Study Options:
After completing the Ph.D. in immunohematology and blood transfusion in India, the candidate is equipped with the required specialized skills; however, for further enhancement, professionals may opt for additional education. Below are the further courses that the candidates may choose:
- Postdoctoral fellowships in the US/EU (e.g., AABB certifications).
- Faculty positions in medical colleges.
- Specialized training in apheresis or cellular therapy.
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Related Job Roles
Blood Transfusion Specialist
Immunohematologist
Consultant Transfusion Medicine
Clinical Transplant Immunology Specialist
Immunologist
Clinical Immunologist
Immunopathologist
Immunotherapy Specialist
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FAQS
What is a PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion?
A research-intensive doctoral program focusing on blood group systems, transfusion protocols, and immunohematology. It trains experts to manage blood banks, conduct research, and improve transfusion safety.
What is the qualification for a blood transfusion officer?
An MD in Transfusion Medicine or a PhD in Immunohematology is required. Some hospitals accept DNB or MSc with SBB (Specialist in Blood Banking) certification.
What is the salary of a blood transfusion doctor?
In India, ₹10–25 LPA; abroad, $70,000–$120,000 depending on experience. A PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion salary is higher in corporate hospitals and research hubs.
Who should pursue a PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion?
Below is the list of professionals who can pursue this course:
- MD pathologists wanting subspecialty expertise.
- Lab technologists aiming for research leadership.
- Professionals targeting international jobs in blood banks or biotech firms.
What topics are covered in the PhD in Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion syllabus?
Key areas of this course include:
- Blood group genetics & antibody screening.
- Transfusion-transmitted infections.
- Therapeutic apheresis & stem cell processing.
- Legal aspects of blood banking.
Related Course titles

Qualifications
DM Clinical Immunology
DM Immunology
MD Blood Transfusion & Immunohaematology
MD Immuno Haematology & Blood Transfusion
Related Specialty
Immunopathology
Clinical Immunology
Transplant Immunology
Immunology Science
Immunogentics
Immunohistochemistry

