Our community takes biological inquiry beyond the classroom and lab, engaging directly with the natural world through fieldwork across the Pacific Northwest and around the globe. From rugged shorelines at Friday Harbor Labs to alpine meadows and from tropical rainforests to urban ecosystems, students, faculty, and staff work side-by-side to collect data, conduct observations, and apply integrative biological methods. This hands-on approach reflects our department’s commitment to collaborative, cross-discipline research and inclusive learning—deepening ecological understanding, cultivating scientific curiosity, and advancing stewardship of diverse environments together.

Students interested in pursuing a PhD in Biology at the University of Washington are encouraged to explore faculty research areas closely and connect directly with potential advisors before applying. Building a relationship with faculty—through conversations, shared research interests, or discussing prospective projects—strengthens your application and helps ensure a strong mentoring fit. Because our program emphasizes close, collaborative work with faculty mentors, early engagement is an important step in preparing a compelling and successful application.