Doctor of Philosophy in Entomology - Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Behavior

Excellent facilities for laboratory and field studies include the outstanding Entomology Library and a renowned insect collection on the Cornell campus. The Boyce Thompson Institute at Cornell and the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station at Geneva are outstanding research facilities. The Graduate Field of Entomology at Cornell includes faculty conducting research in all aspects of insect biology, including systematics, phylogenetics, evolution, ecology, behavior, conservation, climate change, citizen science, invasive species, genetics, genomics, physiology, biological control, medical entomology, and pesticide toxicology.

Insects are arguably the most successful group on planet Earth, residing year-around on all seven continents and comprising over half of all scientifically described species. Ants and termites alone make up roughly 33% of Earth's terrestrial biomass, and there are over 500,000 known species of beetle. Cornell entomologists study evolutionary adaptation of insects to the varied environments that they inhabit, the critical role that pervasive and diverse insects play in natural ecological systems, and behavioral attributes that allow insects to so thrive. Particular areas of strength at Cornell include insect-plant interactions and chemical ecology, insect-microbe interactions, speciation, phylogenetics and systematics and behavioral ecology.

Hold (or expect to hold at the time of matriculation) a baccalaureate degree, or its equivalent, granted by a university of recognized standing
Have fluent command of the English language
Have adequate preparation for graduate work in the chosen field of study
Present evidence of promise in advanced study and research
(TOEFL) and obtain a satisfactory score (550 or higher on the paper-based exam, for the computer-based exam, Cornell requires minimum scores of 20 on Writing, 15 on Listening, 20 on Reading, 22 on Speaking). International English Language Testing System (IELTS) scores are now accepted by Cornell's Graduate School, an overall band score of a 7.0 or higher on the IELTS is required.
A written statement of purpose describing yourself, your personal background, your motivation for pursing graduate study in Entomology, and anything else that you feel to be of relevance or importance. The point of this statement is to give our admissions committee and faculty a sense of who you are.
Upload course transcripts from undergraduate and any prior graduate education (unofficial is fine) .
Three letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation