University of Northern Colorado

What you'll study

The PhD in Biology combines advanced coursework with an extended original research project leading to a doctoral dissertation. Students undertake classes designed to deepen theoretical knowledge and practical skills, then move into full-time research under the supervision of a faculty advisor.

• Core and advanced coursework — topics typically include advanced molecular and cellular biology, population and community ecology, physiological ecology, evolutionary biology, and quantitative methods such as biostatistics and experimental design.
• Research methods and specialist modules — laboratory techniques, genomics and bioinformatics, microscopy, ecological field methods, telemetry and modelling approaches, depending on the research focus.
• Professional development — scientific writing and grant preparation, ethics in research, pedagogy for those preparing for academic careers, and communication of science to public and stakeholder audiences.
• Qualifying milestones — students generally complete preliminary exams or a qualifying assessment to progress to candidacy, followed by dissertation proposal defence and final thesis defence.
• Research dissertation — original, hypothesis-driven research carried out in collaboration with a supervisory committee; results are written as a dissertation and typically submitted as publications to peer-reviewed journals.
• Teaching and professional experience — many doctoral students gain experience as teaching assistants or instructors, and have opportunities for outreach, collaboration with regional conservation and industry partners, and presenting at conferences.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant master’s degree or a strong bachelor's degree with substantial research experience in biology or a closely related field. Admission is competitive and evaluated on the basis of academic record, research potential and fit with faculty expertise.

• Academic qualifications — a completed undergraduate or master’s degree in biology, ecology, molecular biology, or a related discipline. A record of coursework in foundational subjects such as genetics, ecology, cell biology and statistics is desirable.
• Research experience — demonstrated research experience (for example a thesis, publications, laboratory or field research) is strongly preferred and often essential for readiness to undertake doctoral research.
• Application materials — typically required: a CV, personal statement or statement of research interests, a proposed research direction or potential projects, and academic transcripts.
• References — several letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s research potential and preparedness for doctoral study.
• English language proficiency — for international applicants, proof of English proficiency through recognised tests is required where applicable.
• Additional considerations — selection committees look for clear alignment between an applicant’s research interests and available faculty expertise; prospective students are encouraged to contact potential supervisors before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Biology pursue a wide range of careers that make use of their research, analytical and teaching skills. The programme prepares students for roles in academia, research institutions, government and the private sector.

• Academic careers — tenure-track faculty positions, postdoctoral research appointments, and university teaching roles.
• Research and industry — research scientist positions in biotechnology, pharmaceutical companies, environmental consulting firms, and private research organisations.
• Government and non-profit — roles in natural resource management, conservation agencies, public health laboratories, and environmental policy and planning.
• Science communication and outreach — positions in museums, science centres, education programmes and communications teams that require translating research for non-specialist audiences.
• Specialist technical roles — bioinformatics, data science, lab management, and regulatory or quality roles that leverage advanced technical training.

Why study at University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado offers doctoral training within a college and department that emphasise close faculty mentorship, collaborative research and experiential learning. Students benefit from a supportive graduate community and opportunities to develop both research and teaching portfolios.

• Faculty expertise — a range of supervisors working across molecular, organismal and ecological biology, providing options for interdisciplinary projects.
• Research facilities and field access — laboratory resources, core instrumentation and proximity to diverse ecosystems in Colorado that support field-based research and long-term ecological studies.
• Funding and assistantships — opportunities for graduate assistantships, research support and competitive funding to support thesis research and professional development.
• Professional development — structured training in teaching, grant writing and science communication to prepare graduates for diverse career paths.
• Collaborative environment — partnerships with regional agencies, conservation organisations and industry that provide applied research opportunities and pathways to employment.