UCSB EEMB — Ecology, Evolution & Marine Biology
Ecology, Evolution & Marine Biology
University of California, Santa Barbara

Shape the Future of Marine & Ecological Science at UCSB

We weave ecological theory, evolutionary genomics, and coastal partnerships into science that safeguards biodiversity, informs policy, and advances climate resilience.

  • Coast-to-mountain field experiments track how ecosystems respond to rapid change.
  • Evolutionary genomics links DNA variation to conservation and management decisions.
  • Community and tribal collaborations embed justice in marine stewardship.
Apply by Dec 1
Department at a Glance

Research Overview

EEMB scientists connect long-term observatories, experimental labs, and policy partners to forecast ecosystem resilience from ridge tops to reefs.

Research Scope

Integrated programs bridge terrestrial ecology, evolutionary biology, and marine science to answer climate resilience questions.

  • 30 faculty leading cross-disciplinary labs
  • $15M+ in active grants fueling field experiments

Field Stations & Sites

Students and partners work across Channel Islands, Sierra Nevada, Palmyra Atoll, and community-led restoration corridors.

  • 20+ countries with engaged EEMB alumni
  • 5 flagship coastal and terrestrial observatories

People & Impact

Graduate scholars, postdocs, and community partners turn data into policy briefs, conservation action, and inclusive programming.

  • 23 graduate scholars mentored each year
  • Dozens of agency briefings informing stewardship

News & Highlights

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Researchers conducting coastal field work
News

Hantavirus in Madagascar linked to black rats

A non-native rodent in agricultural areas carried the virus more frequently than rainforest or home locales. April 7, 2025

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Divers tending restored kelp forests off the California coast
News

Climate-ready kelp nurseries bolster Channel Islands reefs

EEMB teams are outplanting warm-tolerant kelp strains grown in onshore nurseries to stabilize food webs. May 22, 2025

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Scientists analyzing coral DNA samples in a laboratory
News

Genomics collaboration predicts heat-tolerant corals

EEMB geneticists and Pacific partners mapped resilience markers that guide reef conservation decisions. March 18, 2025

Read more

Events & Opportunities

Upcoming Events & Opportunities

Stay connected with seminars, deadlines, and departmental highlights across EEMB.

Summer Research Showcase

Blue Carbon Solutions from Kelp Forests

Faculty, graduate scholars, and agency partners reveal new data on carbon capture, biodiversity, and coastal resilience.

  • Thursday, July 10 · 4:00 PM
  • MSI Auditorium & Hybrid Livestream
Reserve your seat Add to calendar
Engage with EEMB

Stay involved through diversity initiatives, outreach partnerships, campus visits, and direct support for our students and staff.

Diversity & Inclusion

Join programs that advance equity, mentoring, and belonging across our classrooms, labs, and field stations.

Visit diversity hub

Community Partnerships

Collaborate with coastal managers, NGOs, and tribal partners on restoration projects and science communication.

See community programs

Visit EEMB

Plan your visit, meet research groups, and explore facilities that support our teaching and field campaigns.

Plan your visit

Academic Programs & Pathways

EEMB Graduate Program

Accepting applications — Apply by Dec 1. Explore PhD & MS opportunities, labs, and funding.

How to Apply

Biology Undergraduate Program

Curriculum, advising, research experiences for UCSB undergraduates.

Learn more

Research Themes

Ecology, evolution, marine biology, conservation, climate resilience across systems.

Explore research