Dr. David Schaffer

Professor

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Biography

David V. Schaffer is the Hubbard Howe Jr. Distinguished Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley. He completed his B.S. at Stanford University in 1993 and obtained his Ph.D. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1998. His research focuses on biomedical engineering, utilizing molecular cellular engineering approaches to explore biomedical challenges, particularly in gene therapy and stem cell biology. His laboratory aims to develop therapies for diseases that affect the nervous system. Professor Schaffer has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the field, including the Distinguished Lindsey Lectureship at Texas A&M in 2012, the Eagleson Award from the American Biological Safety Association in 2012, and the Young Investigator Award from the American Chemical Society BIOT Division in 2006. He is a Fellow of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineers and has been recognized multiple times for his excellence in teaching, including awards from the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and the National Science Foundation.

Research Interests

Experience

Faculty

1999-01-01 — Present

University of California, Berkeley • Berkeley, CA

CBE Faculty leading research in biomedical engineering.

Requirements for University of California, Berkeley

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
GRE Subject
Overall Score
Required:500
Overall
Required:500
TOEFL
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or recognized equivalent Preparation comparable to undergraduate major at Berkeley in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics 2 full years lower-division work (Calculus, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations, Multivariable Calculus) 8 one-semester upper-division courses (Real Analysis, Complex Analysis, Abstract Algebra, Linear Algebra)
Application Checklist
  • Graduate Application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Personal History Statement
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Unofficial Transcripts
  • C.V./Resume
  • Course and Textbook List
Specialization Notes

The Mathematics Subject GRE is required for the Fall 2026 admissions cycle. General GRE is optional.