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Doctor of Philosophy

Doctor of Philosophy

  • OVERVIEW

    Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at the School of Medical Sciences is a research-intensive postgraduate program aimed at producing highly skilled researchers in various areas of medical sciences. The PhD program at USM is designed to cultivate expertise in a wide range of fields, including medical research, clinical sciences, health sciences, and biomedical sciences. It prepares graduates for leadership roles in academic, clinical, and research settings.

    The School of Medical Sciences offers a range of research opportunities within various fields of medical and health sciences. Some of the potential areas for PhD research include, but are not limited to:

    • Medical Sciences (e.g., physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology)
    • Clinical Sciences (e.g., clinical medicine, surgery, immunology)
    • Biomedical Sciences (e.g., molecular biology, microbiology, genetics)
    • Health Sciences (e.g., public health, epidemiology, health policy)
    • Medical Imaging
    • Medical Psychology
    • Medical Parasitology
    • Neurosciences and Mental Health
    • Pharmacology and Toxicology
    • Nutrition and Dietetics
    • Medical Microbiology and Immunology
    • Medical Education

    Expertise available in the following School:
    School of Medical Sciences
    https://medic.usm.my/

  • ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

    Applicants should possess the following:

    • A Master's degree in research mode; or
    • A Master’s degree in related area with CGPA 3.00/4; or
    • A Master’s degree in related area with CGPA 2.50-2.99/4 with additional requirements; or
    • Bachelor’s degree in related area with minimum CGPA 3.67/4 (fast-track to PhD)

  • LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

    (Applicable for International Applicants Only)

    • A minimum of Band 5 for IELTS; or
    • A minimum score of 40 for TOEFL (Internet-based); or
    • A minimum of Band 7.5 for TOEFL Essentials (Online); or
    • A minimum score of 154 for Cambridge English: Advance (CAE)/Proficiency (CPE) /Preliminary (PET) /First (FCE)/ Linguaskill Online; or
    • A minimum score of 47 for Pearson Test of English (PTE); or
    • A minimum of Band 107 for CIEP Level (ELS); or
    • A minimum of Band 3.5 for Malaysian University English Test (MUET)

    Exemption CAN BE CONSIDERED to candidate if:

    • English is the candidate’s mother tongue or National Language; or
    • Candidate graduated from an Institution of Higher Learning in which the medium of instruction at Bachelor and/or Master degree level is English (statement of proof required)

  • DURATION

    • Full-time: Min 4 semesters / Max 10 semesters
    • Part-time: Min 6 semesters / Max 15 semesters

  • FEES

    Malaysian (MYR)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 310.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) :4,200.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 1000.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00
    •  Research Methodology : 320.00
    • Registration Fee : 310.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 3,585.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 1000.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00
    •  Research Methodology : 320.00
    International (USD)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 222.50
    • Personal Bond : 1000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 1,575.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 375.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00
    •  Research Methodology: 80.00
    • Registration Fee : 222.50
    • Personal Bond : 1000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 1,425.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 375.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00
    •  Research Methodology: 80.00

    ** Fees are subject to change

    ** New fees to be imposed starting from Academic Session 2025/2026 (October 2025 intake onward)

    Malaysian (MYR)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 330.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 4,200.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 800.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00
    • Registration Fee : 330.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 3,585.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 800.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00
    International (USD)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 225.00
    • Personal Bond : 1,000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 2,500.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00
    • Registration Fee : 225.00
    • Personal Bond : 1,000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 2,130.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00

    ** Fees are subject to change

Master of Science (Women's Health)

Master of Science (Women's Health)

  • OVERVIEW

    Master of Science (Women's Health) by Research Mode is a postgraduate program focused on research in women's health issues. This program is designed for students who are interested in exploring various aspects of women's health, including reproductive health, maternal health, gynecological conditions, and other specific health concerns that affect women. The research-focused nature of the program allows students to conduct in-depth studies on topics that contribute to improving women's health outcomes.

    The program offers a broad range of research opportunities in areas such as:

    • Reproductive Health: Investigating issues related to menstrual health, fertility, contraception, menopause, and other reproductive health concerns.
    • Maternal Health: Researching pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum care, and maternal mortality, with a focus on improving maternal health outcomes.
    • Gynecological Health: Exploring conditions affecting the female reproductive system, such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), uterine fibroids, and cancers of the reproductive organs.
    • Breast Health: Focusing on breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, as well as other breast health concerns.
    • Sexual Health: Examining sexual health issues, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), sexual dysfunction, and sexual violence.
    • Women's Mental Health: Researching mental health conditions that disproportionately affect women, such as postpartum depression, anxiety disorders, and the impact of hormonal changes on mental well-being.
    • Chronic Diseases in Women: Investigating the prevalence and management of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and osteoporosis in women.
    • Health Inequities and Gender: Exploring the social determinants of health that affect women, including gender disparities in access to healthcare, healthcare utilization, and health outcomes.
    • Public Health and Policy: Researching the impact of health policies on women's health, including access to healthcare services, health education, and health advocacy for women.
    • Aging and Women’s Health: Studying the specific health concerns of aging women, including menopause, osteoporosis, and dementia.

    Expertise available in the following School:
    School of Medical Sciences
    https://medic.usm.my/

  • ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

    Applicants should possess the following:

    A MBBS/MD or equivalent degree, BSc in Medical Sciences/Biotechnology/Biology/ Chemistry/Physics or other related fields from a recognised university.

    A) CGPA of at least 2.75/4.00; or
    B) CGPA of 2.50 - 2.74/4.00 with; or

    • Research experience – 1 year; or
    • Professional experience in related field- 1 year; or
    • One(1) academic publication in related field; or
    • Grade B for major/ elective courses; or
    • Grade B+ for final year project.

    C) CGPA of 2.00 - 2.49/4.00 (Honours degree) with; or

    • Research experience - 5 years; or
    • Professional experience in related field - 5 years, AND
    • One (1) academic publications  in related field; or
    • Grade B for major/elective courses; or
    • Grade B+ for final year project.

  • LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

    The minimum score for each programme can be vary from the below list, candidates are required to check for each programme requirements.

    • A minimum score of 40 for TOEFL (Internet-based); or
    • A minimum of Band 7.5 for TOEFL Essentials (Online); or
    • A minimum of Band 5 for IELTS; or
    • A minimum score of 47 for PTE; or
    • A minimum score of 154 for Cambridge English (CAE/CPE); or
    • A minimum score of 154 for Linguaskill Online; or
    • A minimum of Band 3.5 for MUET

    Exemption is given to candidate if:

    • English is the candidate’s mother tongue or National Language; or
    • Candidate graduated from an Institution of Higher Learning in which the medium of instruction at Bachelor and/or Master degree level is English (statement of proof required)

  • DURATION

    • Full-time: Min 2 semesters / Max 6 semesters
    • Part-time: Min 4 semesters / Max 12 semesters

  • FEES

    Malaysian (MYR)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 310.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 4,200.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 750.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00
    • Research Methodology : 320.00
    • Registration Fee : 310.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 3,585.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 750.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00
    • Research Methodology : 320.00
    International (USD)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 222.50
    • Personal Bond : 1000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 1,575.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00
    • Research Methodology: 80.00
    • Registration Fee : 222.50
    • Personal Bond : 1000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 1,425.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00
    • Research Methodology: 80.00

    ** Fees are subject to change

    ** New fees to be imposed starting from Academic Session 2025/2026 (October 2025 intake onward)

    Malaysian (MYR)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 330.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 4,200.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 800.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00
    • Registration Fee : 330.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 3,585.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 800.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00
    International (USD)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 225.00
    • Personal Bond : 1,000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 2,500.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00
    • Registration Fee : 225.00
    • Personal Bond : 1,000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 2,130.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00

    ** Fees are subject to change

PhD Joint Degree - Advanced Medical and Dental Institute

PhD Joint Degree - Advanced Medical and Dental Institute

  • OVERVIEW

    This program is Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)’s first international joint PhD program to be offered in collaboration and partnership with Newcastle University (NU) in the United Kingdom and NUMed Malaysia.

    NU is a Russel Group University which has a global ranking of 122nd in the QS World University Rankings 2023 and is one of the top 70 universities in the world for medicine (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022).

    USM is the second oldest university in Malaysia and one of the premium research intensive leading universities in the country. It has a ranking of 143rd in the QS World University Rankings 2023.

    By enrolling in this joint PhD program, the students:

    • if successfully completed the program and meets all requirements, will be awarded a joint degree from both universities (USM and NU)
    • will be supervised by at least one supervisor from each university where students will be doing research in two high-quality research environments
    • will spend their time at NU for at least 1 year and their other remaining years at USM
    • will have access to expertise and resources at both institutes as well as gain skills from local and international supervisors on their journey towards impactful and excellent research
    • will have the opportunity to experience international academic, research, and learn about various cultures

  • ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

    The admission requirements for the joint PhD are:

    • projects with at least one supervisor from each university must be identified before the acceptance letter is provided
    • applicants must fulfill either NU (Master’s degree in a relevant subject) and USM (Master’s degree in a related area of Science with a CGPA of at least 3.00 or a pass in research mode MSc)
    • Applications that meet the above criteria can apply through USM and NU portals
    • Applications will be approved by respective USM School Board (Institute Postgraduate Studies) and NU Faculty of Medical Sciences Graduate School
    • Both universities will provide separate offer letters which specify the joint PhD program

  • LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

    Both universities, USM and NU require that the applicants must have an acceptable English language requirement with:

    • a minimum score of 6.5 (minimum 5.5 in all sub-skills) for IELTS or
    • a minimum score of 550 for TOEFL

  • DURATION

    The duration for this joint PhD program is a minimum of THREE (3) years with at least ONE (1) year at NU and remaining years at USM.

  • FEES

    Fee structures are determined by the student’s host university. If the student’s place of study is at USM, he/she will pay according to USM’s fee and vice versa. The current fee structure for both universities is as follows:

    Malaysian (MYR)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 310.00
    • Research Methodology Fee: 320.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 4,200.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 1,000.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00
    • Registration Fee : 310.00
    • Research Methodology Fee: 320.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 3,585.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 1,000.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00

     

    International (USD)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 222.50
    • Research Methodology Fee: 80.00  
    • Personal Bond : 1,000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 2500.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 375.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00
    • Registration Fee : 222.50
    • Research Methodology Fee: 80.00  
    • Personal Bond : 1,000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 2130.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 375.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00

    Fee payable when the student’s placement in NU: £ 20,900/year

    ** Fees are subject to change
    ** New fees to be imposed starting from Academic Session 2025/2026 (October 2025 intake onward)

    Malaysian (MYR)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 330.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 4,200.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 800.00
    • Convocation Fee : 120.00
    • Research Methodology : 320.00
    • Registration Fee : 330.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 3,585.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 800.00
    • Convocation Fee : 120.00
    • Research Methodology : 320.00

     

    International (USD)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 225.00
    • Personal Bond : 1,000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 2,500.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00
    • Research Methodology : 80.00
    • Registration Fee : 225.00
    • Personal Bond : 1,000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 2,130.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00
    • Research Methodology : 80.00

    Fee payable when the student’s placement in NU: £ 20,900/year

    ** Fees are subject to change

Master of Science (Medical Statistics)

Master of Science (Medical Statistics)

  • OVERVIEW

    Master of Science (Medical Statistics) by Research Mode is an advanced program aimed at students who are interested in conducting original research in the field of medical statistics, biostatistics, and related health sciences. Unlike the taught mode, the research mode emphasizes independent study and the development of specialized knowledge and skills through a research thesis.

    • Students may engage in various research topics such as:
      • Statistical Modeling in Medical Research
      • Clinical Trial Design and Analysis
      • Epidemiological Data Analysis
      • Genetics and Bioinformatics Statistics
      • Health Economics and Statistical Methods
      • Survival Analysis in Medicine
    • The research projects are often related to real-world health and medical issues, and students may work in collaboration with hospitals, clinics, or public health institutions.

    Expertise available in the following School:
    School of Medical Sciences
    https://medic.usm.my/

  • ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

    Applicants should possess the following:

    A MBBS/MD or equivalent degree, BSc in Medical Sciences/Biotechnology/Biology/ Chemistry/Physics or other related fields from a recognised university.

    A) CGPA of at least 2.75/4.00; or
    B) CGPA of 2.50 - 2.74/4.00 with; or

    • Research experience – 1 year; or
    • Professional experience in related field- 1 year; or
    • One(1) academic publication in related field; or
    • Grade B for major/ elective courses; or
    • Grade B+ for final year project.

    C) CGPA of 2.00 - 2.49/4.00 (Honours degree) with; or

    • Research experience - 5 years; or
    • Professional experience in related field - 5 years, AND
    • One (1) academic publications  in related field; or
    • Grade B for major/elective courses; or
    • Grade B+ for final year project.

  • LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

    The minimum score for each programme can be vary from the below list, candidates are required to check for each programme requirements.

    • A minimum score of 40 for TOEFL (Internet-based); or
    • A minimum of Band 7.5 for TOEFL Essentials (Online); or
    • A minimum of Band 5 for IELTS; or
    • A minimum score of 47 for PTE; or
    • A minimum score of 154 for Cambridge English (CAE/CPE); or
    • A minimum score of 154 for Linguaskill Online; or
    • A minimum of Band 3.5 for MUET

    Exemption is given to candidate if:

    • English is the candidate’s mother tongue or National Language; or
    • Candidate graduated from an Institution of Higher Learning in which the medium of instruction at Bachelor and/or Master degree level is English (statement of proof required)

  • DURATION

    • Full-time: Min 2 semesters / Max 6 semesters
    • Part-time: Min 4 semesters / Max 12 semesters

  • FEES

    Malaysian (MYR)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 310.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 4,200.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 750.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00
    • Research Methodology : 320.00
    • Registration Fee : 310.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 3,585.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 750.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00
    • Research Methodology : 320.00

     

    International (USD)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 222.50
    • Personal Bond : 1000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 1,575.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00
    • Research Methodology: 80.00
    • Registration Fee : 222.50
    • Personal Bond : 1000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 1,425.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00
    • Research Methodology: 80.00

    ** Fees are subject to change

    ** New fees to be imposed starting from Academic Session 2025/2026 (October 2025 intake onward)

    Malaysian (MYR)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 330.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 4,200.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 800.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00
    • Registration Fee : 330.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 3,585.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 800.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00

     

    International (USD)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 225.00
    • Personal Bond : 1,000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 2,500.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00
    • Registration Fee : 225.00
    • Personal Bond : 1,000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 2,130.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00

    ** Fees are subject to change

Master of Science (Medical Education)

Master of Science (Medical Education)

  • OVERVIEW

    Master of Science (Medical Education) by Research Mode is an advanced program aimed at individuals interested in exploring and contributing to the field of medical education through research. This program focuses on conducting original research related to the teaching, learning, and assessment of medical education, with an emphasis on improving the quality and effectiveness of medical training.

    The program allows for research in various aspects of medical education, including but not limited to:

    • Curriculum Design and Development: Developing and evaluating medical curricula to enhance learning outcomes.
    • Teaching and Learning Methods: Exploring innovative teaching methodologies, including problem-based learning (PBL), e-learning, and simulation-based education.
    • Assessment in Medical Education: Developing and assessing new methods for evaluating medical students, including formative and summative assessment strategies.
    • Educational Leadership and Management: Investigating leadership roles and management practices in medical schools and educational institutions.
    • Professionalism and Ethics in Medical Education: Exploring the development and assessment of professional values and ethics among medical students.
    • Global Health Education: Addressing medical education issues in the context of global health challenges.
    • Simulation and Technology in Education: Integrating simulation-based learning and technological tools into medical education.

    Expertise available in the following School:
    School of Medical Sciences
    https://medic.usm.my/

  • ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

    Applicants should possess the following:

    A MBBS/MD or equivalent degree, BSc in Medical Sciences/Biotechnology/Biology/ Chemistry/Physics or other related fields from a recognised university.

    A) CGPA of at least 2.75/4.00; or
    B) CGPA of 2.50 - 2.74/4.00 with; or

    • Research experience – 1 year; or
    • Professional experience in related field- 1 year; or
    • One(1) academic publication in related field; or
    • Grade B for major/ elective courses; or
    • Grade B+ for final year project.

    C) CGPA of 2.00 - 2.49/4.00 (Honours degree) with; or

    • Research experience - 5 years; or
    • Professional experience in related field - 5 years, AND
    • One (1) academic publications  in related field; or
    • Grade B for major/elective courses; or
    • Grade B+ for final year project.

  • LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

    The minimum score for each programme can be vary from the below list, candidates are required to check for each programme requirements.

    • A minimum score of 40 for TOEFL (Internet-based); or
    • A minimum of Band 7.5 for TOEFL Essentials (Online); or
    • A minimum of Band 5 for IELTS; or
    • A minimum score of 47 for PTE; or
    • A minimum score of 154 for Cambridge English (CAE/CPE); or
    • A minimum score of 154 for Linguaskill Online; or
    • A minimum of Band 3.5 for MUET

    Exemption is given to candidate if:

    • English is the candidate’s mother tongue or National Language; or
    • Candidate graduated from an Institution of Higher Learning in which the medium of instruction at Bachelor and/or Master degree level is English (statement of proof required)

  • DURATION

    • Full-time: Min 2 semesters / Max 6 semesters
    • Part-time: Min 4 semesters / Max 12 semesters

  • FEES

    Malaysian (MYR)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 310.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 4,200.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 750.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00
    • Research Methodology : 320.00
    • Registration Fee : 310.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 3,585.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 750.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00
    • Research Methodology : 320.00

     

    International (USD)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 222.50
    • Personal Bond : 1000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 1,575.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00
    • Research Methodology: 80.00
    • Registration Fee : 222.50
    • Personal Bond : 1000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 1,425.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00
    • Research Methodology: 80.00

    ** Fees are subject to change

    ** New fees to be imposed starting from Academic Session 2025/2026 (October 2025 intake onward)

    Malaysian (MYR)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 330.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 4,200.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 800.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00
    • Registration Fee : 330.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 3,585.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 800.00
    • Convocation Fee : 200.00

     

    International (USD)
    Full Time Part Time
    • Registration Fee : 225.00
    • Personal Bond : 1,000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 2,500.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee: 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00
    • Registration Fee : 225.00
    • Personal Bond : 1,000.00
    • Tuition Fee (Semester) : 2,130.00
    • Thesis Evaluation Fee : 250.00
    • Convocation Fee : 50.00

    ** Fees are subject to change

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Postgraduate

Institute of Postgraduate Studies
Universiti Sains Malaysia,
11800 Penang, Malaysia.

Tel : +604 653 2606
Fax : +604 653 2940

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Last Update: Friday 14 March 2025.

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