Closeup shot of a small anemone in glass dish

Department of Evolution and Ecology

The Department of Evolution and Ecology is a dynamic and collaborative community of faculty, students, post-doctoral researchers, and staff. Our mission centers around unraveling the intricate tapestry of evolution and ecology across diverse biological scales. From the evolution of genes and genomes to the diversification of species over time, we explore the fascinating interplay between life forms and their environments. Our research excellence spans these levels, delving into the structure, function, and biogeography of ecological communities. While our faculty members are committed to advancing scientific knowledge, they equally prioritize nurturing the next generation of scientists through quality teaching and mentorship. 

Leadership

Peter Wainwright
pcwainwright@ucdavis.edu
(530) 752-6782		 Chair Faculty Profile
Susan Keen
slkeen@ucdavis.edu
(530) 754-8569		 Vice Chair Faculty Profile
Yuliya Yarova-Yarovaya
yarovaya@ucdavis.edu
(530) 752-7466		 Chief Administrative Officer  

Undergraduate Programs

Major
Degree 
Evolution, Ecology and Biodiversity B.A.
Evolution, Ecology and BiodiversityB.S.
Marine and Coastal Science - Marine Ecology and Organismal BiologyB.S.
Minor
 
Evolution, Ecology and Biodiversity 

Graduate Programs

Male and female researcher in waders exploring the tidepools

CBS Graduate Groups

Faculty in the department participate in one or more of the college’s eight interdisciplinary graduate groups, which range widely in topic, opportunity and faculty expertise, and offer graduate students an immersive, highly collaborative graduate experience. 

Facilities and Programs

Bodega Marine Lab aerial shot

Bodega Marine Lab

The Bodega Marine Laboratory, a leading research and education facility, serves society by providing science that informs solutions to complex environmental challenges in coastal ecosystems.
Brown bird in dry grass

Center for Population Biology

The Center for Population Biology advances understanding of the fundamental ecological and evolutionary processes that control the origins and maintenance of biological diversity, at levels ranging from molecules to ecosystems.
Closeup shot of a sea anemone

Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute

The Coastal and Marine Sciences Institute, located on the UC Davis campus, conducts collaborative, cross-disciplinary research to address pressing challenges in coastal ocean sustainability.