Dr. David Sedlak

Professor

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Biography

David Sedlak is the Plato Malozemoff Professor and Vice Chair of Graduate Studies in Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley. His research focuses on the fate of wastewater-derived contaminants, including pharmaceuticals and toxic disinfection byproducts. He is particularly interested in developing cost-effective and sustainable systems for managing water resources, which encompasses water reuse and recycling, engineered treatment wetlands, and urban water infrastructure. Sedlak has contributed significantly to understanding the impact of chemical contaminants on aquatic environments and has led research into innovative treatment technologies. He has received notable accolades, including a Fulbright Specialist Award in 2019 and election to the National Academy of Engineering in 2016. Sedlak's research encompasses various projects aimed at improving water treatment efficiencies and developing advanced methodologies in relation to urban water cycles. He is actively involved in national collaborations aimed at reinventing the infrastructure of urban water systems.

Research Interests

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.