The University of Maryland's Department of Biology offers a comprehensive program in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior. This program focuses on understanding the complex interactions among organisms and their environments, the evolutionary processes that shape biodiversity, and the behavioral adaptations that organisms develop in response to ecological pressures.
Key Areas of Study:
Ecology: Investigates how individuals and species interact with each other and their environments to form complex, interdependent systems. Researchers seek patterns that explain community structures and dynamics over time.
Evolution: Explores the mechanisms driving the diversity of life, including natural selection, genetic drift, and speciation events. Studies often involve comparative analyses across different species and populations.
Behavior: Examines how organisms adapt their behaviors to survive and reproduce within their ecological contexts. This includes studying communication, mating systems, foraging strategies, and social structures.
Research and Collaboration:
Faculty members engage in interdisciplinary research, conducting fieldwork globally and integrating data from international networks. Their work addresses pressing ecological questions, such as the spread of global diseases, factors maintaining species diversity, and the impact of information exchange on population movements.
Educational Opportunities:
The program offers both undergraduate and graduate courses, providing students with theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Students have opportunities to participate in research projects, contributing to advancements in ecology, evolution, and behavior.
For more detailed information, please visit the Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior program page.