Emory University

What you'll study

Coursework and training are tailored to each student’s research focus but commonly include:

• Ecological theory and community ecology: dynamics of populations and communities, species interactions, and ecosystem processes.
• Evolutionary biology and population genetics: mechanisms of evolution, selection, gene flow, genetic drift and quantitative genetics.
• Systematics and phylogenetics: methods for reconstructing evolutionary relationships and examining biodiversity patterns.
• Research methods and statistics: advanced statistics, experimental design, spatial statistics, and computational modelling (e.g. Bayesian methods, coalescent approaches, ecological niche modelling).
• Laboratory and field techniques: molecular tools, genomic data generation and analysis, experimental ecology, and long‑term ecological monitoring.
• Professional development: grant writing, teaching pedagogy, data management and science communication.

Students typically combine formal classes with seminars, journal clubs and regular lab meetings. A major emphasis is on developing and executing an independent dissertation project, culminating in original, peer‑reviewed publications.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally hold a bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, or a closely related discipline; many admitted students also have a relevant master’s degree or substantial research experience. Required application materials generally include official academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a statement of purpose that outlines research interests and potential faculty mentors, and at least three letters of recommendation. The programme evaluates candidates on academic preparation, quantitative skills, and demonstrated research potential.

Standardised tests and English‑language proficiency exams may be requested or considered depending on institutional policies and the applicant’s background. Relevant laboratory or field research experience, programming or statistical skills, and a clear alignment with faculty research interests strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of careers that draw on their training in evolution and ecology. Common paths include:

• Academic positions as postdoctoral researchers and faculty conducting basic or applied research in evolutionary biology, ecology and systematics.
• Research roles at government agencies and national laboratories engaged in biodiversity assessment, conservation biology and natural resource management.
• Positions with environmental consultancies and non‑governmental organisations focused on conservation planning, restoration ecology and policy advising.
• Industry roles that require expertise in genomics, bioinformatics, ecological modelling or biotechnology.
• Science communication, teaching at secondary or higher education levels, and roles in science policy and outreach.

Why study at Emory University

Emory offers a collaborative intellectual environment with access to diverse research facilities and interdisciplinary programmes. Students benefit from close mentorship by faculty working across organismal biology, genomics and quantitative ecology, and have opportunities to collaborate nationally and internationally. Proximity to varied field sites in the southeastern United States, access to laboratory and computational resources, and connections with regional conservation organisations and research centres support a wide spectrum of empirical and theoretical projects. The graduate community also emphasises professional development, teaching experience and communication skills to prepare students for diverse career paths.