Doctor of Philosophy in Biological Sciences

The study of biological sciences is integral to sustaining the biosphere, of which humankind is now the dominant component. Our goal is to prepare a new generation of researchers who will expand the boundaries of our understanding of organisms and the ecosystems in which they inhabit. To accomplish this, students and their faculty advisors explore aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems around the globe, and across time from the prehistoric to the Anthropocene. Research opportunities are available to students in the areas of ecology, ichthyology, plant biochemistry, evolution, marine biology, paleobiology, and global change. Students in the PhD program in Biological Sciences tackle ecological issues facing the environment and humanity using approaches ranging from molecular and microbial ecology to climatology and biogeography.

As a national research university, Florida Tech provides the tools and skills necessary for students to conduct cutting-edge research. With a goal of developing graduates who become leaders in their fields, the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences considers research experience and methodologies a core educational foundation. Degree candidates engage in studies that make significant contributions at local, regional, national, and international levels on relevant topics, including coastal management, fish physiology, marine mammalogy, shark biology, coral-reef ecology, conservation, climate change, ecotoxicology, sustainable agriculture, restoration of ecosystems, microbial and chemical ecology, and more.

A doctoral applicant must have a bachelor's or master's degree. For admission, a student should have a superior academic record, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a scale of 4.0) in undergraduate work or 3.2 in graduate work, two letters of recommendation, statement of objects and r'sum/CV. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact faculty in the department to identify a prospective advisor.

Applicants must have earned a cumulative GPA of 3.2 in prior graduate coursework in order to be considered for admission to a Florida Tech doctoral degree program.

an Internet-based TOEFL (standard, home and paper) with an earned score of at least 80, or
an IELTS with an earned score of at least 6.5, or