Master's Degree Programme in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

At the University of Jyväskylä, research in ecology and evolutionary biology has focused on ecology and evolutionary genetics. There is a high level of collaboration between the two research fields. Research is active, international and of high quality, and teaching is based on recent research. Ecology and evolutionary biology is therefore one of the University of Jyväskylä's research and educational strengths.

The department has excellent facilities for research and teaching, including DNA research and teaching laboratories, greenhouses and wildlife research facilities and equipment at Ylistönrinne and Konnevesi Research Station.

Research in ecology and evolutionary biology is wide-ranging, covering DNA, organisms, populations and ecosystems. Research activities are characterised by an open-minded integration of different biological disciplines and an emphasis on empirical research. Ecological and evolutionary research questions and hypotheses are tested in particular through experimental methods. Strong research areas include experimental behavioural and evolutionary ecology, evolutionary genetics, biodiversity research, conservation biology and genetics, and theoretical research in these areas. Basic and applied research go hand in hand, as exemplified by research projects on ecotoxicology, climate change, conservation biology, biodiversity, forest management and restoration.Ecology and evolutionary biology provide an excellent framework for thinking about the origin of life and how it has diversified over millions of years. A Master's degree in this field will give you a broad basic knowledge of evolution, ecology, genetics and applied ecology, and the skills to apply this knowledge.

Knowledge

Graduates

• will know and be able to apply the theories and knowledge of their field.
• are able to work as professionals in scientific tasks in the fields of ecology, genetics and evolutionary biology.

Skills

Graduates

• work in accordance with good scientific practice and following ethical principles
• can acquire the latest information in their field
• are able to critically evaluate available knowledge
• understand scientific texts and are able to engage in scientific discussion
• fulfill their duties responsibly and respect ethical and work-safety norms
• have a good knowledge of Finnish nature
• plan and conduct a research project while working in a research group and communicate their findings both in a written thesis and verbally.
• are ready to continue post-graduate education in their own field.
• can recognize their skills and knowledge and relate these to their career goals.
• value and motivated to continue development of their professional skills.

Interactions

Graduates

• are able to communicate and work well with others and can communicate their knowledge to others both orally and in writing.
• are cooperative and motivated to learn and apply their knowledge in order to find creative solutions to problems.