Dr. Brent Minchew

Professor

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Biography

Brent Minchew is a Professor in Geophysics at the California Institute of Technology. He earned his B.S. from the University of Texas at Austin in 2008, followed by an M.S. in 2010 and a Ph.D. from Caltech in 2016. His research focuses on understanding how glaciers and ice sheets respond to climate change, specifically the mechanisms that govern rates of sea-level rise over the coming decades and centuries. His work is characterized by an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating a range of tools including satellite radar and mathematical theory to study processes from atomic to continental scales. Minchew leads a group of geophysicists, glaciologists, mechanicians, and geodesists, investigating climate-cryosphere-solid earth interactions through geodetic observations and physical models. He also explores glacier mechanics and develops remote sensing tools to mitigate natural and anthropogenic environmental hazards, such as monitoring marine oil spills and wildfires.

Research Interests

Requirements for California Institute of Technology

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or equivalent Strong background in mathematics and physical sciences
Application Checklist
  • Online Application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

Most Caltech graduate programs are PhD-only. GRE General and Subject tests vary by department; many have made them optional or no longer accept them.