University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

This PhD combines advanced coursework, disciplined training in quantitative and molecular methods, and an extended original research project leading to a dissertation. Core areas of study include evolutionary theory, population genetics, phylogenetics and systematics, community and population ecology, and conservation biology.

• Foundational topics: evolutionary mechanisms, speciation, adaptive radiation, island biogeography and comparative methods in evolutionary biology.
• Quantitative and computational methods: population genetic modelling, coalescent theory, phylogenetic inference, spatially explicit and demographic models, and statistical analysis using R and other tools.
• Molecular and laboratory techniques: next‑generation sequencing workflows, molecular markers, genomics and transcriptomics approaches for studying adaptation and population structure.
• Field and applied topics: tropical and marine ecology, coral reef evolution, invasive species dynamics, conservation genetics, and restoration ecology — with opportunities for intensive fieldwork across the Hawaiian Islands and neighbouring Pacific environments.
• Professional development: research seminars, teaching experience, grant-writing, and science communication skills required for academic and non-academic careers.

Students tailor a programme of study with a faculty advisor and a dissertation committee; training emphasises hypothesis-driven research, reproducible data practices and collaboration across disciplines such as oceanography, geology and social-ecological studies.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally hold a bachelor's or master's degree in biology or a closely related discipline and demonstrate strong preparation in ecology, evolution, genetics and quantitative methods. Typical application elements include:

• Academic transcripts showing relevant coursework (e.g. genetics, ecology, statistics, evolution).
• A statement of research interests describing proposed research questions and fit with potential faculty mentors.
• Curriculum vitae highlighting research experience, fieldwork and laboratory skills.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or research supervisors able to assess research potential.
• Proof of English proficiency for international applicants where applicable.

Successful candidates usually have documented research experience (undergraduate or master's research projects, publications or technical reports) and demonstrable quantitative skills. A master's degree can strengthen an application but exceptional applicants with a strong bachelor’s background and research record may be considered. Funding is commonly available through graduate assistantships, research grants and fellowships; applicants should discuss opportunities with prospective advisors.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a variety of careers that draw on their training in evolutionary biology, systems thinking and quantitative analysis. Common pathways include:

• Academic and postdoctoral research careers in evolutionary biology, systematics, ecology and conservation science.
• Positions in government agencies and resource management organisations focused on biodiversity conservation, fisheries, invasive species control and environmental assessment.
• Roles with non-governmental organisations and conservation groups working on habitat restoration, species recovery planning and community-based conservation in island and marine systems.
• Industry and consulting roles requiring expertise in environmental impact assessment, genetic monitoring, bioinformatics and ecological modelling.
• Museum and herbarium curation, taxonomic research, and science communication or policy advisory positions linked to natural-history collections and public outreach.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa is uniquely placed for evolutionary and population biology research because of its location in a global biodiversity hotspot and its access to an extraordinary range of ecosystems — from coral reefs and coastal waters to montane tropical forests. The campus hosts specialised research facilities and collaborative centres, such as the Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology, Lyon Arboretum and museums and collections that support systematics work.

Students benefit from faculty expertise in island biogeography, coral reef and marine evolution, conservation genetics and invasive-species research, and have ample opportunities for hands-on fieldwork across the Hawaiian archipelago and Pacific region. Interdisciplinary collaborations with oceanography, geology, anthropology and policy units on campus strengthen applied and socially relevant research, while teaching and assistantship opportunities provide professional training and support for graduate students.