/College of Arts and Sciences
Department of Ecology & Evolution

Ph.D. Admissions & How to Apply

Application Deadline: December 1

Applications to the Ph.D. program in Ecology and Evolution are evaluated holistically according to multiple criteria, including academic preparation, scholarly potential, commitment to an inclusive learning environment, program alignment, and written communication.

Before You Apply: Contacting Faculty Advisors

Prior to submitting an application, prospective students are strongly advised to contact faculty members whose research aligns with their interests. Most inquiries begin in the summer preceding the application deadline.

  • Review research interests and recent publications on our Program Faculty Directory.

  • Contact 1–2 potential advisors with a detailed description of your specific research interests, educational background, and relevant technical skills or experience.

  • Ask if the faculty member is accepting new Ph.D. students.

Note: While students are admitted to the program as a whole rather than specific labs, prior contact with and support from a potential advisor substantially strengthens an application. For general advice on navigating graduate school applications, review the Bulletin of the Ecological Society of America. Potential applicants are also encourged to reach out to current doctoral students, particularly members of the labs under consideration.

How to Apply & Required Components

Applications must be submitted online via the Stony Brook Graduate School Application Portal. A complete application includes:

  • Graduate School Application Form: Includes general contact information, educational background, proposed advisors, and interest in internal fellowships.

  • Statement of Purpose: The statement of purpose helps the admissoins committee understand your academic objectives and helps us determine if you are a good match for the program. In your statement of purpose: (1) clearly articulate specific examples of the types of research questions that interest you (understanding that these may evolve), (2) describe how your background makes you a good fit for the Ecology & Evolution program and to the lab(s) to which you are applying, (3) summarize your research experience, highlighting any presentations, publications or awards, (4) describe your potential for contributing to an inclusive learning environment, as evidence by life experience, participation or leadership in affinity groups, mentoring, tutoring, outreach or volunteer experience.

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV): Your CV summarizes your academic and work experiences. Be sure to include previous education, presentations, publications, academic honors, teaching experience, professional experience, leadership and volunteer experience, skills and certifications. A helpful guide to preparing an effective CV can be found here. An alternate guide can be found at this link.

  • Transcripts: Official or unofficial academic transcripts (including GPA) from all college-level institutions attended. Transcripts are used as evidence of academic preparation.

  • Three Letters of Recommendation: Request letters from former professors, employers, or research supervisors who can address your research potential, academic preparation, and character.

  • TOEFL / IELTS Scores: Required for applicants whose primary language is not English.

  • Application Fee & Waivers: The application fee is $100. Applicatiosn will not be processed without the fee. Review Fee Waiver Eligibility Criteria for options based on financial need, military service, CIE recruitment event participation, or designated opportunity programs. 

Interview Process

Short remote interviews are conducted for a subset of applicants to evaluate characteristics critical to graduate success, including curiosity, perseverance, independence, maturity, and oral communication skills. These evaluations are conducted by the admissions committee with input from potential advisors.