Boise State University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, intensive research, and professional training to develop expertise in ecological and evolutionary theory, systematics, and population biology. Core study areas commonly include evolutionary genetics and genomics, population and community ecology, phylogenetics and systematics, quantitative methods and statistical modelling, landscape and conservation ecology, field methods, and laboratory techniques.

Typical components of the programme are:

• Advanced seminars in evolutionary theory, ecological interactions and population dynamics.
• Courses in statistics, mathematical and computational modelling, and bioinformatics for analysing genetic and ecological data.
• Methodological training in field techniques (mark–recapture, ecological surveying, remote sensing), laboratory methods (molecular ecology, stable isotopes) and phylogenetic analysis.
• A departmental seminar series and journal clubs to develop critical reading and presentation skills.
• Original doctoral research leading to a written dissertation and public defence; students work closely with a faculty advisor and often with interdisciplinary teams.
• Opportunities for teaching experience, grant writing, and science communication to prepare for diverse career paths.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant graduate degree (Master’s) in biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, organismal biology or a closely related discipline. Exceptional applicants with a strong honours or bachelor’s degree and substantial research experience may also be considered. Typical requirements include:

• A strong academic record in relevant coursework (upper‑division/graduate level).
• Demonstrated research experience, shown through a master’s thesis, published papers, or substantive laboratory/field projects.
• A statement of research interests outlining proposed doctoral research and fit with faculty expertise.
• Curriculum vitae and academic references from supervisors or researchers familiar with the applicant’s work.
• Proof of English language proficiency where applicable (for international applicants).

Specific application materials and any standardised test policies (for example GRE) are described by the university’s graduate admissions office; prospective students are encouraged to contact potential faculty mentors in advance to discuss research alignment.

Career prospects

Graduates from this PhD programme move into a range of research and leadership roles. Common career directions include:

• Academic positions: postdoctoral research, tenure-track faculty, or teaching roles at colleges and universities.
• Government and agency science: research scientists and resource managers with federal and state agencies, natural resource departments and wildlife services.
• Conservation and non‑profit sectors: conservation scientists, restoration ecologists, and programme managers for NGOs and foundations.
• Environmental consulting and applied ecology: ecological modelling, biodiversity assessments, impact analyses and mitigation planning.
• Industry and biotech: positions in companies that apply ecological and evolutionary principles, including genomics and population management.
• Science communication and policy: roles translating research for policy makers, education, and public outreach.

Why study at Boise State University

Boise State offers a strong setting for ecological and evolutionary research because of its proximity to a wide range of western U.S. ecosystems—including riparian corridors, mountain ranges, sagebrush steppe and semi‑arid basins—providing accessible field sites for comparative and long‑term studies. Graduate students benefit from hands‑on field opportunities as well as well‑equipped laboratories for molecular and quantitative work.

The university emphasises collaborative and interdisciplinary research and maintains active partnerships with regional land managers, conservation organisations and federal agencies, which can support field research, internships and applied projects. Faculty mentoring, a supportive graduate community, and opportunities for teaching and professional development equip students with the skills needed for academic and applied careers in ecology and evolution.