The Department of Entomology in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) recently received approval from the UW Board of Regents to launch their PhD program in ecology and evolutionary biology (EEB). The program offers an interdisciplinary field of study for students seeking to understand how the diversity of life is shaped over space and time. Current UW–Madison students can declare the program in fall 2025, while new students can apply starting in fall 2026.

Research at the intersection of ecology and evolution is at the forefront of many of society’s pressing challenges such as understanding the impacts of environmental change on species, conserving the functions of ecosystems and developing new technologies to improve basic understanding of biodiversity. The EEB program will provide multidisciplinary training to students who can then engage in innovative research and contribute to new technologies and ideas.

UW–Madison is a leader in ecology and evolutionary biology research, but in contrast to many other institutions, it hasn’t offered a formal graduate degree in EEB. The addition of the new program will foster educational excellence and bring recognition to the university’s existing faculty expertise in the field. Students will be advised by faculty in CALS, the College of Letters & Science, the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies, the School of Medicine and Public Health, and the School of Veterinary Medicine. The training will provide experiences that emphasize foundational coursework and a strong community identity.

“We have over 100 faculty members across campus conducting research related to ecology and evolution,” says Sean Schoville, professor of entomology and director of graduate studies. “We’re excited to see how this program will be a draw for competitive students from around the world.”

There is already strong support for the program on campus. Many current graduate students complete coursework in ecology and evolutionary biology beyond the requirements of their degree program. Past surveys showed that 82% of students involved in the EEB field believed a program in the area would improve their educational experience. Additionally, 64% believed earning a doctoral degree in EEB would improve their professional outcomes.

Dissertation research projects will be individually crafted by students with the guidance of a dissertation committee, who will advise the students on their career goals and paths. Graduates of the EEB PhD program will be prepared for careers in fields such as biotechnology, agriculture and environmental sciences and may work in academia, government agencies and nonprofit organizations.

“The program is designed to give students leadership and outreach opportunities along with faculty mentorship,” says Schoville. “Graduates will be well equipped for their career paths.”