Integrative Biology (Ph.D.)

Program Overview

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The Integrative and Organismal Biology (IOB) PhD option at the University of New Hampshire provides a comprehensive understanding of organismal biology through hands-on projects and research. Students develop expertise in experimental design, communication, and teaching, preparing them for careers in academia, government, research, or non-profit organizations focused on animal and plant biology. The program emphasizes collaboration with faculty and opportunities for outreach activities.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The Integrative and Organismal Biology (IOB) option within the PhD program in Biological Sciences at the University of New Hampshire is designed for students interested in diverse aspects of organismal biology, including physiology, neurobiology, behavior, cell biology, genetics, evolution, ecology, systematics, and more. This option emphasizes hands-on biological projects and research in teaching and learning biology at the post-secondary level. Upon completion, graduates will be prepared for careers in academia, government, research, or non-profit organizations focused on animal and/or plant biology.

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Objectives:

• Provide students with a comprehensive understanding of organismal biology and its subfields
• Develop students' research skills and expertise in experimental design and analysis
• Enhance students' communication skills for effectively presenting scientific information to both professional and general audiences
• Prepare students for successful careers in various fields related to organismal biology

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Program Description:

The IOB option offers a tailored program of study for each student, including required core courses, competency requirements, and a research project. Students work closely with their advisors and Doctoral Guidance Committees to design a program that aligns with their research interests and career goals. The program emphasizes the application of various tools and approaches from molecular to ecological levels to gain a deep understanding of organismal functions and adaptations.

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Outline:

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Core Course:

• Introductory Graduate Seminar (BIOL 901): Focuses on program requirements, faculty, and cohort building.

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Competencies:

• Experimental Design and Analysis: Fulfilled through graduate-level courses such as Applied Biostatistics II (BIOL 811) or Design, Analysis and Interpretation of Experiments (ANFS 933).

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Electives:

• Students select additional courses in consultation with their advisors and committees to complement their research interests and career objectives.
• Recommended coursework includes Scientific Writing (BIOL 902), Scientific Communication (BIOL 950), and Grant Writing (NR 905).

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Research Project:

• Students conduct original dissertation research under the guidance of their Doctoral Dissertation Committees.
• The research project culminates in a written dissertation and a public seminar presentation.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• Coursework: Students are evaluated based on their performance in required and elective courses through assignments, exams, and presentations.
• Research Progress: Students' research progress is monitored through regular meetings with their advisors and Doctoral Guidance Committees.
• Dissertation: The dissertation is rigorously evaluated by the Doctoral Dissertation Committee and the Graduate School.

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Assessment Criteria:

• Research Quality: Originality, significance, and rigor of the research project.
• Communication Skills: Ability to effectively communicate scientific information in written and oral formats.
• Critical Thinking: Demonstration of analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Professionalism: Adherence to ethical guidelines and responsible conduct of research.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Students gain teaching experience through assistantships, which require enrollment in College Teaching (LSA 900).
• The program emphasizes the development of effective teaching skills through mentorship and opportunities to present research at conferences.

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Faculty:

• The program benefits from a diverse faculty with expertise in various areas of organismal biology, including zoology, botany, ecology, and environmental science.

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Unique Approaches:

• The IOB option combines hands-on biological projects with research on teaching and learning biology at the post-secondary level.
• Students have opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research projects and engage in outreach activities.

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Careers:

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Career Paths:

• Graduates of the IOB option are well-prepared for careers in academia, government, research, and non-profit organizations.
• Potential career paths include:
• University professors
• Research scientists
• Government biologists
• Environmental consultants
• Science educators
• Museum curators