PhD in Ecology - Ecological Genomics and Genetics in Davis United States | University of California Davis

The Graduate Group in Ecology provides Master's and Doctoral degree programs. Ecology is an interdisciplinary science that combines multiple fields to thoroughly understand how natural and human factors affect organisms' distribution, abundance, behaviors, characteristics, and ecosystem roles. To cater to diverse student interests, the Group has established specialized 'focus areas' including: agricultural ecology, conservation ecology, ecological genomics and genetics, ecosystems and landscape ecology, ecotoxicology and physiological ecology, environmental policy and human ecology, integrative ecology, marine ecology, and restoration ecology. For more information, please reach out to the Group office. This interdisciplinary graduate program blends fundamental and applied ecological studies, enabling students to specialize in areas such as agricultural ecology, conservation ecology, ecological genomics and genetics, ecosystems and landscape ecology, ecotoxicology, environmental policy & human ecology, integrative ecology, marine ecology, physiological ecology, or restoration ecology. Graduates develop both qualitative and quantitative expertise for professional research and teaching in ecological theory and practice.

Ecological genomics examines genome structure and function to understand organisms' relationships with their living and non-living environments. Genomics advancements have not only expanded research capabilities but also enabled novel scientific inquiries and innovative solutions to existing questions. This field integrates ecology, genetics, genomics, and evolutionary biology, employing genetic and genomic methods to tackle significant ecological challenges. With rapid progress in genomic technologies, this area grows increasingly vital for assessing, tracking, and forecasting how environmental changes affect natural biological systems. Given its interdisciplinary approach, students in this focus area should possess or develop comprehensive knowledge in ecology, genetics, population biology, evolution, and systematics.