Biology (Ph.D.)

Offered by: Biology (Faculty of Science)
Degree: Doctor of Philosophy

Program Description

The Doctor of Philosophy in Biology is a research-focused program that encompasses a diverse range of topics in biology, from molecules and cells to organisms and ecosystems, including development, behaviour and evolution. Research themes include:

1. molecular, cellular and developmental biology,
2. conservation, ecology and evolution, and
3. neurobiology and behaviour.

This program allows students considerable flexibility in their choice of research and coursework and encourages cross-disciplinary thinking.

Note: For information about Fall 2025 and Winter 2026 course offerings, please check back on May 8, 2025. Until then, the "Terms offered" field will appear blank for most courses while the class schedule is being finalized.

Thesis

A thesis for the doctoral degree must constitute original scholarship and must be a distinct contribution to knowledge. It must show familiarity with previous work in the field and must demonstrate ability to plan and carry out research, organize results, and defend the approach and conclusions in a scholarly manner. The research presented must meet current standards of the discipline; as well, the thesis must clearly demonstrate how the research advances knowledge in the field. Finally, the thesis must be written in compliance with norms for academic and scholarly expression and for publication in the public domain.

Required Courses (6 credits)

Complementary Courses (9 credits)

3 credits from the following [choose BIOL 601 Introduction to Graduate Studies in Biology. and either BIOL 602 Molecular Biology Research and Professional Skills. or BIOL 603 Organismal Biology Research and Professional Skills.]:

*Or 3 credits at the 500 level or higher with the approval of the Graduate Program Director.

6 credits at the 500, 600, or 700 level in Biology or other departments, and approved by the Supervisory Committee