Program Overview

Ecology Ph.D. (Ithaca)

Field of Study

The field of study for this program is Ecology and Evolutionary Biology.

Program Description

The Graduate Program in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology offers students rich opportunities to study organic diversity, including its origins, maintenance, and consequences. The program provides broad exposure to concepts and research approaches in ecology and evolution, alongside in-depth study in one or more subdisciplines. Students pursue research questions that address fundamental issues in basic and applied sciences, spanning a wide range of spatial and temporal scales and employing experimental, observational, theoretical, statistical, molecular, and chemical approaches. Some students focus on Discipline-Based Education Research to develop evidence-based knowledge and practices to improve STEM education.

Each student’s course of study is tailored to their individual goals and interests. The program emphasizes broad, integrative thinking and encourages students to be both interdisciplinary and independent. It is particularly well-suited to those who can take full advantage of Cornell’s expansive intellectual and technological resources in the life sciences and related fields.

Excellent laboratory and nearby field facilities are available, along with extensive collections and libraries. All students are required to gain teaching experience by serving as teaching assistants for at least two semesters.

Concentrations by Subject

• animal ecology
• applied ecology
• biogeochemistry
• community and ecosystem ecology
• limnology
• oceanography
• physiological ecology
• plant ecology
• population ecology
• theoretical ecology
• vertebrate zoology

Tuition

Tuition information can be found on the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page.

Application Requirements and Deadlines

Application Deadlines

• Fall: December 1
• No spring admission

Requirements Summary

• All Graduate School Requirements, including the English Language Proficiency Requirement for all applicants
• Three recommendations
• Note: GRE test scores are no longer accepted or reviewed for application to this program

Academic Statement

The Academic Statement of Purpose should outline reasons for pursuing graduate research and explain academic interests and professional goals, along with broader background, experiences, and skills that can lead to a successful graduate school experience. The statement should include two sections:

1. Academic background, preparation, and professional goals (500-word limit): Describe academic training, skills, research experience, accomplishments, and professional goals relevant to future graduate work.
2. Future research (within 500 words): What research questions would you like to explore as a graduate student? This is not binding and is intended to give an indication of where your research interests and approaches are headed.

Learning Outcomes

A candidate for a doctoral degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology is expected to demonstrate a broad-based knowledge in the chosen discipline (Ecology, Evolutionary or Organismal Biology, or some combination), mastery of knowledge in the chosen sub-discipline, and create new knowledge, making an original and substantial contribution to the sub-discipline in a timely fashion.

Proficiencies

• Demonstrate broad-based knowledge in the discipline of Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Organismal Biology, or some combination
• Make an original and substantive research contribution to the sub-discipline
  • Think originally and independently to develop new knowledge, concepts, and methods
  • Identify new research questions
• Demonstrate advanced research skills
  • Be knowledgeable of historical development and able to articulate, discuss, and synthesize concepts and evidence in the sub-discipline
  • Be knowledgeable of organisms and ecological or evolutionary systems pertinent to doctoral research
  • Master observational, experimental, and analytical methods
  • Adhere to ethical standards of scientific research
  • Interpret and evaluate research findings
  • Demonstrate the ability to communicate research findings through oral presentation and written publications
  • Demonstrate the ability to write proposals for fellowships and research funding
• Demonstrate two or more of the following skills
  • Effective teaching skills in ecology and evolutionary biology
  • Collaborative skills in research, teaching, or outreach
  • Involvement in departmental and university organizations
  • Involvement in professional activities and organizations related to the academic discipline
  • Involvement in outreach activities with students or the broader public