Dr. David Bottjer

Professor

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Biography

Professor Bottjer is a paleobiologist and paleoecologist who has worked broadly on organism-sediment interactions and the ecological history of life. His current research focuses on significant paleobiological questions, employing a multidisciplinary approach to understand paleobiology and paleoecology. He has conducted extensive fieldwork in eastern California and China, emphasizing detailed studies of paleoecology and recovery patterns following the end-Permian and end-Triassic mass extinctions. Bottjer has made substantial contributions to research on Triassic strata across the western United States, Europe, Japan, and China. His involvement in the Paleobiology Database reflects his commitment to developing comprehensive databases that facilitate addressing major outstanding paleobiological and evolutionary challenges.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

2006-08-16 — Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Teaching and conducting research in Earth Sciences.

Director of Undergraduate Studies

2016-01-01 — Present

Department of Earth Sciences, USC • Los Angeles, CA

Managing undergraduate studies.

Chair

2006-08-16 — 2012-08-15

Department of Earth Sciences, USC • Los Angeles, CA

Oversaw department operations and faculty.

Chair

2009-08-16 — 2012-08-15

Department of Earth Sciences, USC • Los Angeles, CA

Led the department as chair.

Awards

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William H. Twenhofel Medal

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Paleontological Society Medal

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Honorary Member

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Fellow

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Fellow

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Fellow

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Raymond C. Moore Medal

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Albert S. Raubenheimer Award

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UCLA CSEOL Distinguished Scientist Award

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.