Dr. Boaz Barak

Professor

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Biography

Boaz Barak is a Gordon McKay Professor of Computer Science at Harvard University, with a key focus on theoretical computer science. He is a prominent figure in computational complexity, algorithms, cryptography, and quantum computing. Barak holds a Ph.D. from the Weizmann Institute of Science and was previously a principal researcher at Microsoft Research New England and an associate professor at Princeton University. Currently, he serves part-time at both Harvard and OpenAI, contributing to the field of machine learning foundations and the safety of artificial intelligence systems. In his academic career, Barak has been active in various editorial roles and seminar organizing committees, including the Theory of Computing Journal and the Harvard Machine Learning Foundations seminar. His teaching includes courses on AI safety and theoretical computer science, reflecting his commitment to educating the next generation of computer scientists. Outside of academia, Barak engages in outreach and mentoring activities, especially with high school students through summer courses on coding and algorithms.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

— Present

Harvard University • Boston, MA

Engaged in research and teaching in theoretical computer science, focusing on areas such as computational complexity, algorithms, cryptography, and quantum computing.

Awards

#

Simons Investigator Fellowship

Requirements for Harvard University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Total
Required:80
IELTS
Overall
Required:6.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in a technical or quantitative field
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

Administered by the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS).