The Program

This program provides graduate students with a comprehensive foundation in the basic theory of population biology, ecological genetics, community ecology, conservation biology, and statistics along with applied interdisciplinary experience in conservation biology. This theoretical, broad foundation coupled with collaborative research prepares our graduates as the future leaders in research as well as service in a broad range of academic, governmental, and foundation positions in conservation-related fields.

Area of Specialization

The Conservation Biology Certificate Program offers an area of specialization in conservation biology within existing Masters or Doctoral degree programs in many departments including Biological Sciences, Fisheries & Wildlife, Forestry, Rural Sociology, and Anthropology, among others. Enrollment in any of the departmental graduate programs requires approval by that departmental admissions committee. Once enrolled in a graduate degree program students can apply for the Conservation Biology Program.

The conservation biology faculty represent numerous departments at MU as well as multiple federal and state agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service, Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, U.S.G.S., Ecological & Contaminants Research Center, and the Missouri Department of Conservation Research Unit. Conservation Biology students will have the opportunity to work with a vigorous and diverse group of dedicated and enthusiastic scientists, all committed to providing a stimulating learning environment and excellent research support in conservation biology.

Special Opportunities

This program derives its strength from a unique core of highly interactive faculty in academic institutions, government agencies, and industry all working on aspects of conservation biology. The monthly Conservation Biology Seminar Series and Reading Group promotes communication among students and faculty. Students have the opportunity to design their research programs utilizing the unique natural resources of Missouri: remnant prairies, caves, glades, Ozark forests, and the Missouri River flood plain. We also encourage and provide financial support for our students' involvement in international field research projects. MU is an active member of the Organization of Tropical Studies. State-of-the-art facilities are available for laboratory studies on molecular genetic diversity and using aquatic mesocosms. MU provides unique support facilities for remote sensing and geographic information system.

Financial Support

A variety of fellowships and assistantships are available through university departments and research units in Columbia. Applicants are encouraged to contact individual faculty directly.

Through support of the MU Graduate School, the Conservation Biology Program will offer three Graduate Fellowships of $3000 each for 2009.  Appropriate uses include student or technician salary (including time spent fulfilling conservation biology internship), research equipment and supplies, conference travel, and other needs that will facilitate the student’s research and development.

Priority will go to graduate students who have applied for or are in the process of applying for the Conservation Biology Certificate. Previous fellowship recipients are eligible to apply. Recipients will be required to submit a brief update describing outcomes of the fellowship as well as present a seminar to the Conservation Biology reading group in December.

Conservation Biology Fellowship Application