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Human Evolutionary  BiologyHuman Evol Bio image 

Why you should consider this major 


The major in Human Evolutionary Biology (EBH) is offered jointly by the Departments of Anthropology and of Ecology and Evolution. It provides interdisciplinary training in the natural sciences and anthropology to examine how evolutionary forces shaped the human condition. Core courses provide a strong background in the natural sciences, mathematics, and statistics and an introduction to each of three subfields: (1) human evolution and morphology, (2) human and non-human primate genetics and genomics, and (3) the evolutionary basis of behavior.

The human evolution and morphology subfield aims at an understanding of the paleontological, morphological, and cultural transitions that occurred during the evolution of the human lineage. In the subfield human and non-human primate genetics and genomics, faculty and students explore the genetic diversity, evolutionary relationships, and genetic adaptations in humans and their closest living relatives, non-human primates. Finally, courses in the evolutionary basis of behavior subfield use an evolutionary framework to understand human and non-human primate behaviors and its underlying physiology.

Is there any additional information you would like students to know about the Human Evolutionary Biology major?

(i) Courses are taught by world-renowned faculty, all conducting novel and exciting research in their fields. (ii) Required courses include about one-third of the classes recommended in preparation of the MCAT. (iii) Up to 7 credits from study abroad programs in the Turkana Basin or the Madagascar program can be applied to the major.

What internships or research opportunities are available through the department?

All of the faculty in paleoanthropology, paleoprimatology, functional morphology, archaeology, zooarchaeology, genetics and genomics, behavioral ecology, and physiology are research active and offer opportunities for internships, research projects, and honors theses in their labs. Openings are posted on the EBH Blackboard site (accessible to majors) and sent to majors via email. In addition, EBH majors are encouraged to contact faculty directly to ask for openings. Lastly, a list of field school and external internship opportunities is accessible through our Blackboard site.

What skills will students gain that will prepare them for any future endeavor?

Required courses in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and anthropology provide background for professional study in medicine, public health, dentistry and other health-related fields. Electives strengthen research and critical thinking skills.

For more information, please contact

Dr. Andreas Koenig  humanevolbio@stonybrook.edu
Director, Human Evolutionary Biology
Location: SBS Bldg. S-517
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The Career Center provides more thorough detailed information how majors and careers are related, click here.

"It is important to remember that these skills can be developed not only through course work,
but by doing internships, getting involved in campus activities and working part-time."
Career Center website