University of Toronto

Overview

The PhD in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) at the University of Toronto is designed to cultivate researchers who explore the intricate relationships between organisms and their environments, along with the evolutionary processes that influence biodiversity. This program encompasses research at various scales, from the microscopic level of genes and microbes to the expansive realms of ecosystems and landscapes.

The degree awarded upon completion of the program is the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), and it is delivered as a research-based graduate program on-campus, focusing on both ecology and evolutionary biology.

What you'll study

The PhD program is research-intensive, requiring students to engage in graduate-level coursework while developing a dissertation project under the mentorship of a faculty supervisor.

• Core graduate training: Examples include Advanced Statistics, Spatial Statistics, and Philosophy and Methods.
• Discipline-focused coursework: Special Topics in Ecology and Special Topics in Ecology and Evolution are common courses.
• Methods and modelling: Students may study Modelling in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology.

Research component: Students are expected to conduct original research and prepare a dissertation that reflects their findings. The structure of coursework, research milestones, and dissertation requirements may vary based on the supervisory committee and individual student plans.

Research breadth: Faculty members engage in diverse research areas, including conservation biology, evolutionary ecology, population and community ecology, genetics/genomics, molecular evolution, behavior and behavioral genetics, taxonomy/systematics, microbiology, plant biology, developmental biology, and theoretical biology.

Entry requirements

• Applicants must establish a sponsorship agreement with a graduate faculty member who will supervise their research and must be offered a position within the EEB program.
• Applicants holding an MSc from an accredited institution may be considered if their academic performance aligns with the standards set by the University of Toronto.
• Admission decisions are based on the applicant's academic record, the fit of their research interests, and the quality of their proposed research direction and accompanying materials.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD program in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology are well-prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, governmental agencies, and conservation organizations. They may pursue roles that involve conducting research, teaching, policy-making, and applying ecological principles to address environmental challenges and biodiversity conservation.