Overview
As mentioned on the main page, my research lies at the
interface between ecology and evolution and has a strong geographic
aspect. My lab will strive to conduct research addressing major issues in
biogeography and evolution (applicable to many systems), while maintaining a
primary focus on the mammalogy of the Neotropics. Due to the current state
of knowledge regarding Neotropical mammals, this requires heavy use of primary
data in the form of specimens deposited in natural history museums. Most
of my graduate students will be museum-literate, and I anticipate that many will
use museum specimens extensively. The geographic proximity of the American
Museum of Natural History (seven subway stops from City College) facilitates
such research.
Due to a strong commitment to research mentorship of
undergraduates, I intend to have a moderate number of graduate students (perhaps
2-4 at a time). Hence, I will be very selective. I am
interested in training bright, motivated, quantitatively oriented students who
have strong writing skills ... and who want to work hard to become first-rate
scientists. My students need prior field and/or museum experience
(especially Ph.D. students). I want students who are fascinated about the
natural world and who are creative thinkers regarding research design.
Superior performance in previous coursework, high GRE
scores, and solid TOEFL scores (for non-native English speakers) are necessary for admission to the programs (see below), for my
evaluation of student records, and for funding. If possible, please take
the biology subject test as well as the general GRE. Biology subject
scores are often higher than scores on the general GRE, especially for foreign
students; strong biology scores will make an applicant more competitive for
funding. For foreign students, especially non-native English speakers, I
strongly suggest taking the GRE early (ideally, a year before
starting a program here; see below for schedules), to allow for a second chance
to take the exam and receive higher scores before the application deadline.
Click here for general
information on graduate studies in biology at City College/CUNY.
Master's
City College of New York offers a master's
degree in biology through the Department of Biology. CCNY-based
funding can be difficult at this level. Students can be admitted to begin
in either spring or fall semesters.
Ph.D.
The Graduate School and University Center of the City
University of New York ("CUNY Graduate Center") runs a Ph.D.
program in biology, and I am a member of the doctoral faculty for the
Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, and Behavior subprogram. My Ph.D. students
apply to and enroll through the Graduate Center, but are based in my lab at City
College. Students with strong applications will be considered for various
fellowships. Ph.D. students can take courses at several area universities,
including Columbia University and New York University.
Applications are due in January to begin studies for the fall semester.
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R. P. Anderson
Copyright © 2004-2008.
All photographs by RPA
Last modified: 16 March 2008 (RPA)
