Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior Graduate Program are listed as one of the “Best Ecology Programs” in the U.S.

BLOOMINGTON – The Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior (EEB) Graduate Program within the College of Arts and Sciences Department of Biology at Indiana University Bloomington has been ranked #10 in “Ecology/Evolutionary Biology” programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

A white-tailed deer strolls by the Biology Building on the Indiana University Bloomington campus.
A white-tailed deer strolls by the Biology Building on the Indiana University Bloomington campus. Photo by James Brosher, IU Studios

U.S. News & World Report bases its rankings of doctoral programs in the sciences on the results of surveys sent to academic officials. The ranking methodologies include an assessment of both the accomplishments of a school’s incoming students and the career outcomes of a school’s graduates.

Actively enrolled in the IU EEB Graduate Program are 55 students at various stages of completing their doctoral degrees. During the 2021-22 academic year, eight students graduated with a Ph.D. from the program. A Master of Science degree in EEB is also available.

Jay T. Lennon
Professor Jay Lennon

“Our EEB program is internationally recognized for excellence in a range of fields including population genetics and genomics, quantitative genetics, molecular evolution, the evolution of development, phylogenetics, community and ecosystem ecology, ecology and evolution of infectious disease and symbiosis, microbial ecology and evolution, invasion biology, behavioral endocrinology, behavioral genetics, and sensory processes,” said Jay Lennon, a professor in the Department of Biology and EEB Section Associate Chair. “Our EEB laboratories have made important discoveries in basic science while contributing to various applied issues. And, our dedicated faculty mentors in the program seek to train innovative, independent scientists who publish in top-tier journals and win prestigious awards while preparing for rewarding careers in and out of academia.”

The program’s individually tailored training allows students to develop their own interests. The skills and perspectives necessary to pursue those interests are broadened through the program’s open learning environment, encouraging the students to interact with a range of faculty and laboratory groups.

Richard Phillips
Professor Rich Phillips

“Our integrative and cooperative program promotes graduate research that strengthens and connects traditionally distinct fields,” noted Rich Phillips, a professor in the Department of Biology and director of the EEB graduate program. “EEB faculty members enjoy their science, believing that research and teaching should be simultaneously fun and rigorous.”

Visit the Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior Graduate Program web page to learn more about this highly ranked program.

Information: The Colleg of Arts & Sciences Department of Biology.