Research and teaching assistantships are available. The department offers MS degrees in biology, earned by thesis, with concentrations in ecology, microbiology, molecular biology, physiology, and evolutionary biology. Students are equipped to study major medical problems at the basic level and, at the same time, recognize the clinical significance of their pursuits and discoveries. Students may apply by checking the box on the yellow card enclosed with Medical School application materials and filling out the appropriate application form. The 27 faculty members have programs in aquatic toxicology, behavior, biological simulation, cell biology, development, ecology, evolution, fisheries, genetics, insect-plant relationships, integrated pest management, molecular biology, neurobiology, nitrogen fixation, paleoecology, physiology, ultrastructure, and wetlands biology.
Some programs emphasize aquatic systems.
Organisms studied include diverse animals, algae, fungi, and vascular plants. University of Miami Faculty members in tropical biology, ecology, and behavior program have active research programs in the Neotropics and Paleotropics. Tropical courses offered. Proximity to natural communities in southern Florida and Neotropics facilitates field studies. University of Miami Faculty members have active research programs in ecology, behavior, neuroethology, conservation, and evolutionary and tropical biology.