Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, PhD
Engage in high-level research and teaching alongside renowned faculty who investigate wide-ranging ecological and evolutionary questions at the forefront of biology. Our PhD in ecology and evolutionary biology prepares students for a variety of career options and is designed to be flexible and hands-on with multiple mentoring and professional development opportunities.
Program Overview
The Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) PhD program develops expert researchers for careers in academia, national labs, industry, conservation, and much more.
Our program provides training in interdisciplinary skills across ecology, evolution, behavior, and mathematical biology with a particular emphasis on the development of quantitative skills, including statistical analysis, ecological niche modeling, mathematical biology, bioinformatics and data science, as well as strong organismal biology knowledge, that support modern biological research. You will also have a range of courses to choose from that emphasize intellectual and professional development, technical skills in the laboratory and field, statistics, theoretical models, biology education, phylogenetics, and genomic sequencing, among others.
With four available concentrations and the option for a concurrent master’s degree, you can tailor your pathway to fit your needs.
Concentrations
Our current selection of concentrations include:
- Behavior
- Ecology (including mathematical ecology)
- Energy Science and Engineering
- Evolutionary Biology
These concentrations reflect the core areas of ecology and evolutionary biology. With four concentrations to choose from, you can take whatever courses fit your unique research interests.
Concurrent Master’s Degree
The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology offers PhD students the opportunity to complete a concurrent master’s degree as they progress towards their PhD. You will complete 30 hours of coursework and pass a comprehensive exam, allowing you to accelerate your academic journey and set you apart in the job market and beyond.
What Sets Us Apart
Top 10%
Ecology Program
According to a study conducted by three ecology and evolutionary biology researchers, UT’s EEB program is in the top 10% of ecology programs among other universities in North America.
1 in 12
students receive external fellowships
On top of teaching and research assistantships, 1 in 12 of our graduate students have received external fellowships from places like the National Science Foundation and U.S. Department of Energy.
Over 15
funding agencies sponsor faculty
Our faculty contribute to some of the most ground-breaking research in ecology and have received funding from over 15 different federal or non-profit agencies.
Why Study Ecology and Evolutionary Biology?
The doctorate in ecology and evolutionary biology (EEB) is flexible, allowing you to choose courses that fit your career goals. We provide funding through a teaching assistantship and multiple professional development opportunities. We provide core training and depth in multiple fields to help you gain scientific expertise in ecology, evolution and many other areas.
With limited required courses, the graduate curriculum allows students, in consultation with their advisor(s) and committee, to tailor their coursework to meet their career goals. Some students take the coursework required to receive a concurrent Masters degree, Masters in Statistics or graduate certificates in Bio-Math & Statistics and Field Biology Analytical Techniques while pursuing their PhD in EEB. There are also courses in teaching and learning to hone your skills in education, and courses in scientific writing to advance this critical skill in science. Altogether, the EEB PhD graduate curriculum supports multiple career paths to prepare you for your future.
Moreover, the Biology Field Station and our renowned facilities and collections can help you hone your skills in natural science collections and biodiversity knowledge to prepare you for future careers.
Renowned Facilities and Collections
UT Herbarium
As one of the largest plant collections in the southeast, the University of Tennessee Herbarium showcases over 700,000 plant, and fungal specimens, and is an instrumental tool for documenting biodiversity across Tennessee and from around the world.
UT Hesler Biology Greenhouses
The Biology Greenhouses hold a variety of plant species from across the world. The greenhouses are used for teaching and research, serving as a place for students to apply their knowledge and study plant ecology, diversity, and evolution.
Etnier Ichthyology Collection
The UT Etnier Ichthyological Collection (UTEIC) houses over 500,000 fish specimens from the state of Tennessee and across the Americas, making it an invaluable tool used for teaching and research in the department and beyond.
What Can You Do with a PhD in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology After Graduation?
In the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology PhD program at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, students are immersed in hands-on learning experiences in the field and lab, and take courses and have experiences that prepare them for a variety of career options. They are given opportunities to present and publish research, build networks, and engage in professional development, setting them up for career success.
Our graduates go on to work at universities or other research institutions, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), consulting firms and more. Our professional development courses give our graduates experiences in genomic sequencing and bioinformatics, statistical analyses and data science, science communication, teaching, and policy development that have allowed them to make a difference in multiple fields.
Featured Courses
EEB 509 Core Ecology
Readings, lectures, and discussion about transformative concepts and people in ecology, taught by multiple EEB faculty who are experts in these fields.
EEB 511 Core Evolution
Readings, lectures, and discussion about transformative concepts and people in evolution, taught by multiple EEB faculty who are experts in these fields.
EEB 560 Biometry
Statistical applications in biological research using R, case studies, and your own data in a hands-on exploration of data analysis and interpretation.
EEB 604 Science Writing
Provides a foundation and support for productive scientific writing. Emphasizing a practical understanding of scientific writing through a process of weekly writing and peer review.
Complementary Minors and Certificates
Looking to enhance your degree? Consider these programs as a complement to your primary major.
Looking For More Options?
The College of Arts and Sciences offers students the broadest range of academic programs and opportunities for research and creative activities at the University of Tennessee, powered by faculty expertise across every discipline.
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