Ecology and evolutionary biology (EEB) seeks to understand the origins, diversity, and distribution of organisms. All life evolves. All life sciences, along with evidence-based stewardship of life on planet Earth, depend on understanding the factors that influence the origin and maintenance of biological diversity − from genomes to ecosystems. Understanding EEB helps society to make informed decisions about sustainable development, global climate change, invasive species, harvested natural resources, preservation of biodiversity, genetic diversity and ecosystem integrity, control of herbicide and pesticide resistance, antibiotic and drug resistance, and emerging infectious diseases.

Students exposed to these subjects come to realize that the ecological and evolutionary underpinnings of life pose a constellation of engaging scientific problems that are both intellectually challenging and critical to humanity’s future. EEB graduates go on to successful careers in data science, research, medicine and healthcare, government ministries like MNR and DFO, environmental and conservation NGO’s and consulting firms, and many other industries. As members of one of the highest ranked EEB departments in the world and the largest EEB department in Canada, EEB students are uniquely positioned to enhance their scientific literacy as the future decision-makers and knowledge-creators in society.