Modern biochemical and cell biology techniques can often provide sophisticated solutions to marine and aquatic biology problems, and students who develop interdisciplinary research projects often gain a competitive edge in career development. Advisory committee members include faculty members from the cellular and molecular biology section of the Department of Biological Sciences and members of other departments. Florida Tech is located in east-central Florida, an area with many opportunities for field research, with access to subtropical and tropical marine and terrestrial communities. There is a wide array of ecosystems, ranging from temperate salt marshes to subtropical upland forests, many of which support populations of endangered and threatened species. The Indian River lagoon provides a high-diversity marine ecosystem with many unusual features.
Opportunities exist for fieldwork on state and federal wildlife refuges and other protected areas.
A major strength of the graduate program is the interaction that occurs between that department and several associated research institutions. These associations provide additional research resources as well as a high degree of flexibility in graduate programs in areas of course work and research. Financial Aid Graduate teaching and research assistantships are available to qualified students. Computer-based information on scholarships, loan funds, and other student assistance may be obtained from the Financial Aid Office. A limited number of assistantships providing tuition remission only are also available.