Dr. Alka Pradhan

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Alka Pradhan is an adjunct professor specializing in human rights and humanitarian law with a focus on counterterrorism situations and the impact of torture on fair trials. She currently serves as Human Rights Counsel for the Guantanamo Bay Military Commissions, representing defendants in significant capital cases such as United States v. Khalid Sheikh Mohammad (the '9/11 case'). Pradhan has previously held the position of Counter-Terrorism Counsel at Reprieve, advocating for Guantanamo Bay detainees and engaging in litigation concerning habeas corpus claims and detention conditions. Her advocacy extends to civilian victims of targeted killing programs in Yemen and Pakistan, emphasizing the U.S. government's compliance with international legal obligations. She has collaborated with the Constitution Project, the UK Parliament, and the European Parliament on investigations related to torture and war crimes. Pradhan is also known for her contributions to various legal committees at the United Nations and has drafted significant legal principles related to investigative interviewing. A frequent media commentator, her work has featured in prominent publications and documentaries, focusing on the intersections of international law, counter-terrorism, and human rights. She holds multiple degrees, including a BA in International Relations and a JD from Columbia Law School.

Research Interests

Requirements for University of Pennsylvania

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.6
GRE General
Verbal
Required:162
Quantitative
Required:162
Overall
Required:162
GMAT
Total Score
Required:728
Overall
Required:728
TOEFL
Total
Required:115
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or equivalent Strong quantitative background
Application Checklist
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Letters of Recommendation (2-3)
  • Resume/CV
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Essays
Specialization Notes

Wharton Doctoral programs cover fields like Finance, Marketing, Management, and Operations, Information and Decisions.