Graduate Studies in Integrative Biology
Online Brochure

The faculty of the Department of Biology is a complex, interactive group that works together to build strong foundations for the next generation of biologists. Graduate students in the Department of Biology can use our research strengths to develop a strong foundation as a professional scientist. Our team of organismal biologists and ecologists has established a national reputation for cutting edge research in conservation biology and coastal marine ecology. The Biology department’s environment not only promotes rigorous training of graduate students, but also encourages interdisciplinary interactions among students and faculty. The department offers a Ph.D. in biology, and Masters degrees in biology and microbiology. The diverse array of research topics currently under study by the faculty include:

Restoration ecology of marine systems Seagrass restoration Conservation genetics of endangered species Stream and lake ecology Plant systematics Population biology Fire ecology Water quality and microbial interactions with organisms Estuarine invertebrate biology and ecology Terrestrial conservation biology and restoration Amphibian and reptile conservation Marine-protected areas and coastal management Seagrass/coral reef ecology Nutrient dynamics Ecological effects of introduced species

The University of South Florida is situated near Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The Atlantic Ocean and the Florida Keys are located just hours away to the east or south. Current studies of marine systems include research projects that span from molecular ecology to organismal biology. Our abundant terrestrial and marine habitats are prime candidates for interdisciplinary research projects. Tampa is located at the northern-most range of mangrove habitats and coral reefs. Students can work in the seagrass beds in Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, which provide rich nursery areas for fin fish and shrimp fisheries. Students may also interact with other marine biologists from nearby research facilities, such as the Florida Institute of Oceanography, USF College of Marine Science, United States Geological Survey, Florida Marine Research Institute, Mote Marine Research Laboratory, and the Keys Marine Laboratory .

Blending aquatic, marine and terrestrial systems presents many research opportunities and challenges to biology students. Faculty in the Division of Integrative Biology study a variety of applied and basic research topics. The diversity of the model systems under study and cutting-edge nature of the research encourages the interaction of the faculty and students. In addition, the presence of the College of Marine Science, Patel Center for Global Studies, as well as the Archbold Biological Station, allow numerous possibilities for collaboration.

The University Located on Florida’s West Coast, where the subtle influences of the tropics blend with the seasonal influences of the temperate north, the University of South Florida has grown to become the largest urban university in the state, and is the 12th largest university in the nation. USF is ranked a Research I university by the state, as well as a top research university by the Carnegie Foundation. The university attracts more than $300 million in annual research money.

Please take the time to explore this website where you will find information on the Division, the Professors and their research. This Brochure is also available in a concise printer friendly format for ease of reference when you are not online.