About this honours subject area

Ecology and Evolutionary Biology explore the processes that shape life, from interactions between individuals to the dynamics of entire ecosystems. Ecology examines how organisms interact with each other and their environment, while evolution provides the unifying framework for understanding patterns in nature, from genetic variation to the diversification of species over time. Together, these fields intersect at multiple levels and are central to addressing real-world challenges such as biodiversity conservation, climate change adaptation, and sustainable resource management. As part of the LIFE honours course, you’ll undertake an original project under the guidance of expert academic supervisors, developing advanced technical, analytical, and critical thinking skills. The LIFE honours course is strongly recommended for any student wishing to enter a research career or undertake further work leading to a higher degree.

Ecology and Evolutionary Biology honours projects are available to any student graduated with a major in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, or >12 credit points of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology units plus a major in a related area of life science.

Unit of study requirements for Honours in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology: completion of 36 credit points of project work and 12 credit points of advanced coursework. 

For further details about LIFE honours, please get in touch with the honours coordinator, Dr. Sandro Fernandes Ataide. For more information on Ecology and Evolutionary Biology you may also contact Professor Ashley Ward.

Applying for Honours in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

Application to Honours is a two-step process. You first submit an Expression of Interest for a supervisor and project to the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, then apply for admission through the Faculty of Science.

1. You can search for a supervisor and browse available projects on the EoI portal link
2. If your Expression of Interest (EoI) is accepted by the supervisor, you will receive an email and PDF confirmation of supervision for your nominated Honours project.
3. After your EoI is approved by your supervisor, you will receive an acknowledgment email which you should attach to your application - see applying for honours.
4. You will be notified of your confirmed supervisor shortly after EoI’s close. Late applications for available supervisors will be considered in the order received.