Program in Ecology and Evolution

Interdisciplinary Program

The University of Wyoming's ecology and evolution graduate program provides students with advanced, integrated training in the science of ecology and evolution. The Program in Ecology and Evolution (PiEE) is an interdisciplinary doctoral program focusing on the scientific study of the relations between organisms and their environments. The research interests of participating faculty span a broad range of organisms, environments, analytical tools and spatial and temporal scales. Ecology and Evolution students receive training in the conceptual, philosophical and historical underpinnings of ecological and evolutionary knowledge, as well as leadership and communication skills relevant to contemporary professional and public settings.

Degree Information

An ecology student out in the field

Apply To Our Program

The University of Wyoming's Program in Ecology and Evolution (PiEE) is an interdisciplinary doctoral program that requires applicants to secure admission to a home department aligned with their advisor's affiliation. Applicants must have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 and obtain sponsorship from a PiEE faculty member or co-sponsorship with a PiEE affiliate. Those without a master's degree should demonstrate exceptional promise through research experience or publications. Current UW doctoral students may apply to transfer into PiEE, subject to the same admission criteria and approval by the Graduate Affairs Committee.

Admission Information

About Our Program

The Program in Ecology and Evolution (PiEE) is an interdepartmental doctoral program housed at the University of Wyoming in the high plains of Laramie. PiEE is the largest PhD program at the University of Wyoming, and provides advanced, integrated training in the science of ecology.

 

The Program's central mission is to produce broadly trained scientists who will lead the field of ecology and evolution in the coming decades. As part of their education, PiEE students develop skills in relevant technologies, gain exposure to a variety of disciplinary and interdisciplinary perspectives, and prepare to look ahead as new scientific opportunities and societal needs emerge. The Program instills a strong commitment to advancing ecological knowledge and applying it effectively to problems of societal concern.

 

The Program is grounded in the natural history of organisms in their environment, but incorporates tools and perspectives from across the biological, physical, mathematical, computational and earth sciences. Students develop conceptual, historical, and philosophical perspectives spanning the entire range of sub-disciplines in ecology and evolution, while receiving advanced training in the sub-discipline of their individual interest. PiEE fosters long-term career development by exploring the linkages of ecology and evolution with other disciplines, and by scanning the ecological and evolutionary biology horizon or emerging questions, concepts, and approaches that will shape the field in years to come.

History of the Program in Ecology & Evolution

The Program in Ecology and Evolution (PiEE) (f/k/a Program in Ecology) was created in 2005 by a group of five faculty members from three different departments at the University of Wyoming.  It originally began as a Ecology Project under a National Science Foundation grant administered by the Wyoming EPSCor Program. In 2010 and 2011, PiEE has become a financially and administratively self-sufficient program, and is now housed in the Berry Biodiversity Conservation Center on the University of Wyoming campus.

The original cadre of Ph.D. students in 2005 consisted of three students in Botany and Zoology/Physiology. Since then, PiEE has grown to include a number of 50+ students, 70+ alumni, 40+ faculty members, affiliates and emeritus faculty. The program continues to expand and progress, largely due to a superbly engaged student body that seeks excellence in themselves and the program.

Hear From Our Previous Director

PIEE Student Symposium 2025*

February 6–7, 2025 | University of Wyoming | EERB Atrium

Join the Program in Ecology and Evolution (PiEE) community for two days of celebration, research and connection at the 14th Annual Student Symposium and the return of the beloved PIEE Bazaar and Auction. Hosted by PhD students in the program, this free, public event features student presentations, interdisciplinary discussions, live music, local art and a keynote from a renowned Indigenous ecologist. Everyone is welcome—from students and faculty to friends, family and the wider community.

*The 2026 PiEE Student Symposium is currently being planned and information will be updated here soon!

Two students look at a laptop in a lab

We are honored to welcome Joseph Gazing Wolf from the Heritage Lands Collective as our 2025 keynote speaker.


Joseph brings a wealth of experience in ecology, land stewardship, and Indigenous knowledge, with decades of work alongside BIPOC communities. His interdisciplinary approach and powerful voice in ecological and cultural resilience make him an inspiring figure for this year’s symposium.


🕛 Keynote Address: February 7, 12:00–1:10 p.m.
📍 EERB Atrium

🕕 6:00–9:00 p.m.
📍 EERB Atrium

 

  • Handmade goods for sale and auction
  • Food and drinks provided
  • Live music and a lively atmosphere
  • All proceeds support future PIEE events and student research
  • Open to the public — bring your friends and family!

🕥 10:30 AM–9:00 p.m.
📍 EERB Atrium

 

  • 10:30–11:30 a.m.: Coffee Hour & Science & Art Workshop
  • 12:00–1:10 p.m.: Keynote Address by Joseph Gazing Wolf
  • 1:10–2:15 p.m.: Lunch & Access + Engagement Panel Discussion
  • 2:15–5:30 p.m.: Student Research Presentations
  • 5:40–9:00 p.m.: Dinner & Poster Session

 

☕ Light lunch, snacks, and beverages provided throughout the day
🎓 Open to the public — students, faculty, staff, and community members encouraged to attend!