PhD Ecology and Evolution at Stony Brook University

Programme overview

The PhD in Ecology and Evolution is run by the Graduate Program in Ecology and Evolution, among the first such programmes in the United States. Faculty research spans terrestrial, freshwater and marine organisms, using experimental, comparative, theoretical and statistical approaches in the field, laboratory and literature, with strengths in population genetics, evolutionary genomics, phylogenetics, ecosystem ecology, paleontology and conservation.

Faculty: College of Arts and Sciences | Department: Ecology and Evolution | Duration: Requirements must be completed within 7 years after 24 graduate credit hours; minimum two consecutive full-time semesters in residence | Study mode: full-time | Location: Stony Brook, NY, United States

What you will study

First-year core courses are Principles of Ecology, Principles of Evolution, Biometry and Research Areas of Ecology and Evolution, followed by at least three further graduate courses, four graduate seminars, and a colloquium each semester. A preliminary exam at the end of the second semester, an oral exam with a dissertation research proposal in the second year, and a dissertation with public defense complete the degree; at least one semester of teaching assistantship is required.

Career pathways

Faculty positions in biology, ecology and evolution, entomology and marine biology departments; research institutions, government agencies, conservation organizations and environmental consulting (e.g. invasive species, natural resource management, risk assessment, data science).

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Online Graduate School application; official transcripts; three letters of recommendation; $100 non-refundable application fee; TOEFL or IELTS scores if native/primary language is not English; personal statement on background and research interests; CV. Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, mathematics or another appropriate background, typically at least one semester of calculus. Prior contact with GPEE faculty is strongly recommended. Applicants must be accepted by both the Graduate School and the department.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Graduate School: the application fee is $100 (limited exceptions). Deadlines vary by program; for fall applications considered for funding the deadline is typically January 15.

Apply through the official page: https://www.stonybrook.edu/grad/admissions/apply-graduate-programs.html

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