The study of biological sciences is integral to sustaining the biosphere, of which humankind is now the dominant component. Our goal is to prepare a new generation of researchers who will expand the boundaries of our understanding of organisms and the ecosystems in which they inhabit. To accomplish this, students and their faculty advisors explore aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems around the globe, and across time from the prehistoric to the Anthropocene. Research opportunities are available to students in the areas of ecology, ichthyology, plant biochemistry, evolution, marine biology, paleobiology, and global change. Students in the PhD program in Biological Sciences tackle ecological issues facing the environment and humanity using approaches ranging from molecular and microbial ecology to climatology and biogeography.<br><br>As a national research university, Florida Tech provides the tools and skills necessary for students to conduct cutting-edge research. With a goal of developing graduates who become leaders in their fields, the Department of Ocean Engineering and Marine Sciences considers research experience and methodologies a core educational foundation. Degree candidates engage in studies that make significant contributions at local, regional, national, and international levels on relevant topics, including coastal management, fish physiology, marine mammalogy, shark biology, coral-reef ecology, conservation, climate change, ecotoxicology, sustainable agriculture, restoration of ecosystems, microbial and chemical ecology, and more.