ZLY_PHD - Zoology (Ph.D.)
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About This Program
Program Information
Chair: M. L. Wayne
Graduate Coordinator: J. (Gordon) Burleigh
The Department of Biology offers graduate programs in Zoology leading to the Master of Science in Teaching, Master of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. The requirements for these degrees can be found in the Graduate Degrees section of this catalog.
Our program emphasizes Integrative Biology, with integration accomplished through a focus on the theoretical foundations provided by evolutionary biology and ecology. Our faculty has expertise in ecology, evolution, behavior, comparative and environmental physiology, genetics, development, and phylogenetics. We work in a variety of terrestrial and aquatic environments and geographic regions (tropics through subpolar), and on a range of organisms (including plants). Our faculty value integrative research (e.g., by crossing levels of organization from gene expressions to species interactions), linking theory with data (through use of statistical and mathematical tools), and using natural history to guide the development and testing of rigorous conceptual frameworks. Many of our faculty also are interested in applying and testing basic science in applied contexts (e.g., conservation biology and ecotoxicology).
Our approach is highlighted through our first-year, required, graduate course, Integrative Principles. Each student’s supervisory committee will recommend additional courses according to the academic background and research plans of the student.