Dr. Aaron Straight

Professor

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Biography

Aaron Straight is the Pfeiffer Herold Families Professor of Biochemistry and Chair of the Department of Biochemistry at Stanford University. His research primarily focuses on understanding the genetic and epigenetic control of chromosome organization and function. He utilizes a combination of cell biology, biochemistry, microscopy, computation, and functional genomics in his laboratory to investigate questions related to chromosome biology. Specifically, his interests lie in the assembly and function of the centromere and kinetochore, RNA-dependent regulation of chromatin and epigenetic states, and the function of repetitive elements within genomes. In recognition of his contributions to science, he was named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) in 2025.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

— Present

Stanford University • Stanford, CA

Leading research in chromosome biology and supervision of the Straight Lab.

Requirements for Stanford University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:26
Reading
Required:26
Writing
Required:26
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:100
GRE General
Verbal
Required:160
Quantitative
Required:165
Analytical Writing
Required:4.5
Overall
Required:4.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor degree from an accredited institution Strong background in mathematics and programming
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

The Computer Science department emphasizes research potential. GRE General is currently optional but recommended for some tracks.