Biology (Complex Adaptive Systems Science), PhD

Program Overview

The PhD in Biology (Complex Adaptive Systems Science) integrates complex adaptive systems science with traditional life sciences, providing a comprehensive understanding of complex systems across scales. It equips students with interdisciplinary research skills in data analysis, modeling, and computational tools, preparing them for careers in academia, government, industry, and education. The program emphasizes the application of a "complexity lens" to solve real-world problems in diverse domains, including social evolution, ecosystems, human health, and policy analysis.

Program Outline

Biology (Complex Adaptive Systems Science), PhD

Degree Overview:

Program Description:

• Integrates concepts and methods from complex adaptive systems science with traditional disciplines in the life sciences.
• Emphasizes the application of a "complexity lens" to solve real-world problems across diverse domains.
• Provides a solid foundation in biology while equipping students with interdisciplinary research skills.

Objectives:

• Train future scientists with the expertise to tackle complex issues in areas like social evolution, ecosystems, human health, and policy analysis.
• Foster a comprehensive understanding of complex adaptive systems across different scales and levels of organization.
• Develop advanced research skills through rigorous training in data analysis, modeling, and computational tools.

Careers:

Opportunities:

• Academic positions at institutions of all levels.
• Research roles in government agencies.
• Industry careers with private companies or NGOs focusing on food, agriculture, and healthcare.
• Science instruction at elementary and secondary levels.
• Wildlife, animal, and conservation sciences.

Examples

• Researchers in academic labs (government or private).
• Principal Investigator in governmental labs or NGOs.
• University and college Professors/Instructors.
• Elementary, Secondary & High school Science Educators.
• Wildlife, Animal & Conservation Scientists.

Other:

Admission Requirements:

• Bachelor's or master's degree from regionally accredited institution.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 in last 60 hours of bachelor's or in applicable master's program.
• Graduate admission application and fee.
• Official transcripts.
• Proof of English proficiency (if applicable).
• Letter of application to chair of the complex adaptive systems science graduate faculty.
• Program is STEM-OPT certified, offering up to 36 months of post-graduation work in the U.S. for qualified international students.
• Emphasis on interdisciplinary research through the CAS (Complex Adaptive Systems) initiative at ASU.