Dr. Charles Sammis

Professor

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Biography

Professor Emeritus Charles Sammis specializes in Earth Sciences with extensive research on fractal fragmentation of the crust, frictional instabilities in granular fault zones, and the application of non-linear mechanics to regional seismicity. His studies focus on the mechanical and tectonic interpretations of fracture patterns in volcanic plains on Venus, high-temperature and high-pressure rheology applicable to planetary interiors, and low-temperature and low-pressure rheology related to shallow crustal problems and energy extraction, including earthquake prediction. Sammis has contributed significantly to the understanding of earthquake instabilities, leveraging his expertise in fracture mechanics and fractal geometry. He has authored numerous influential publications, including books and journal articles that explore dynamics of fault zones, earthquake mechanics, and structural observations in geology.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor Emeritus

1977-01-01 — Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Served as Professor Emeritus focusing on research and teaching in Earth Sciences.

Associate Professor

1972-01-01 — 1977-01-01

Pennsylvania State University • University Park, PA

Held tenure-track appointment focusing on geophysics and seismic studies.

NATO Postdoctoral Fellow

1974-01-01 — 1975-01-01

University of Bristol • Bristol, England

Conducted research on fracture mechanics and fault dynamics.

Visiting Professor

1999-01-01 — Present

National Autonomous University of Mexico • Mexico City, Mexico

Held visiting position to impart knowledge in physics.

Visiting Professor

1987-01-01 — Present

Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris • Paris, France

Engaged in collaborative research on geophysical processes.

NERC Visiting Scientist

1983-01-01 — 1984-01-01

Cambridge University • Cambridge, England

Investigated high-pressure mechanisms in earthquake cycles.

Awards

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Fellow

2007-01-01
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Teaching Award

2005-01-01
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Creativity Research Scholarship

2002-01-01
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Excellence in Teaching

1994-01-01
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Outstanding Scholar

1991-01-01

Requirements for University of Southern California

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
GRE General
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Math, or Hard Science
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Letters of Recommendation (not required for MS CS, but allowed)
Specialization Notes

GRE is NOT required for Master's applicants for 2025-2026.