Ph.D. in Biology
This doctoral program emphasizes environmental and evolutionary biology. Training within this broad framework encompasses marine biology, ecology, molecular studies, and cell biology. Coursework and a dissertation lead to a Doctor of Philosophy opening doors for an academic career in teaching or independent research.
The department offers facilities and equipment to support graduate research and works closely with several research laboratories and organizations.
Our department is very research-focused, securing $2 million in funding every year for research, instruction, and infrastructure. All of our doctoral students design and conduct their own research, analyze data, give presentations on their research, write manuscripts for publication in renowned biology journals, and teach in the classroom.
Visit the Department of Biology website for more information about the doctoral program.
Requirements
All PhD in biology students are required to complete an original research project and formal dissertation under the guidance of a graduate faculty member and advisory committee. Before you apply, you'll need to get in touch with a faculty member under whom you would like to work and research.
See all Ph.D. in biology requirements >>
Coursework requirements
Doctorate in biology students will be required to take courses devoted specifically to research and dissertation work, along with at least 9 credit hours each in environmental biology and evolutionary biology.
See the courses for the doctorate in biology >>
Career Opportunities
Our Ph.D. in biology prepares you for the highest levels of scholarship and research in academia and industries. Most of our doctoral graduates are teaching at the university level, and others lead teams of researchers in their own labs. Other biology doctoral graduates combine fieldwork and lab research to work for federal and state agencies in agriculture, geology, fish and wildlife, the environment, and more.
Apply today!
Apply to the Ph.D. in Biology program >>
Additional Application Materials
In addition to the general Graduate School application materials, you must also submit:
- Graduate Assistantship Application
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae
- Identify an Advisor
Application Deadline
- Fall: February 1
- Spring: October 1
Contact
Graduate Coordinators
Dr. Kelly L. Robinson, Graduate Coordinator (Applications)
Phone: 337-482-5705
Lab: BLD 250
Email: kelly.robinson@louisiana.edu
Dr. Brad Moon, Graduate Coordinator (Post-Admissions)
Phone: 337-482-5662
Wharton Hall, 509
Email: brad.moon@louisiana.edu