Biology PhD, Ecology, Evolution and Behavior Emphasis

Program Overview

The PhD program in Biology at the University of Missouri-St. Louis emphasizes empirical and theoretical research approaches, providing students with advanced training in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior; Cellular and Molecular Biology; or Integrative Biology. The program includes required coursework, research experience, and an emphasis area, preparing graduates for careers in academia, industry, and government. Students must pass a qualifying examination, complete coursework, defend a dissertation proposal, and complete supervised teaching.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The PhD program in Biology at the University of Missouri-St. Louis emphasizes empirical and theoretical approaches to biological research. The program is designed to provide research experience and training appropriate for advanced positions in academic research and teaching, government and public agencies, and industry. Students are required to integrate basic skills in biology with focal studies in an emphasis area, which include Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior; Cellular and Molecular Biology; or Integrative Biology.

Outline:

Required Coursework (20 credits total):

• BIOL 6889: Graduate Seminar (6 credits)
• BIOL 5178 and BIOL 5179: Introduction to Graduate Research in Biology and Ethical Issues in Biology (2 credits)
• BIOL 5436: Advanced Applied Bioinformatics (3 credits)
• BIOL 4122: Biostatistics (3 credits)
• BIOL 5012: Advanced Genetics (3 credits)
• BIOL 5302: Advanced Evolution (3 credits)

Up to 30 credits of graduate research (BIOL 6905)

Emphasis Areas (at least 6 credit hours required):

• Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior
• Cellular and Molecular Biology
• Integrative Biology (a combination of coursework from both of the previous emphases)
• Additional courses may be included as electives with prior approval of the program coordinator.

Assessment:

The qualifying examination, consisting of a written and oral component, is typically taken in the fall semester of the third year of graduate school. The written exam covers general knowledge of biology and the specific area of emphasis, while the oral exam focuses on the student's research proposal. To be admitted to candidacy, students must satisfy the requirements of the Graduate School, which includes passing the qualifying examination and completing all required coursework. The dissertation proposal must be successfully defended by the end of the sixth semester, and the dissertation itself must be submitted and approved by the Department of Biology and the Graduate School.

Teaching:

All doctoral students must complete at least one semester of supervised teaching. The teaching experience is designed to provide students with opportunities to develop their teaching skills and to gain experience in mentoring undergraduate students.

Careers:

Graduates of the PhD program in Biology at the University of Missouri-St. Louis are prepared for a wide range of careers in academia, industry, and government. Academic careers include positions as professors, research scientists, and laboratory directors. Industrial careers include positions in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and environmental companies. Government careers include positions in regulatory agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration.