Dr. Dianne Newman

Professor

Build a Statement of Purpose

Generate a tailored SOP for Dr. Dianne Newman. Improve your application with a focused, well-structured draft.

Biography

Dianne K. Newman is a distinguished professor at the Kavli Nanoscience Institute at California Institute of Technology, where she holds the Gordon M. Binder/Amgen Chair and serves as the Merkin Institute Professor. Newman earned her B.A. from Stanford University in 1993 and her Ph.D. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1997. After completing her education, she joined Caltech as a Clare Booth Luce Assistant Professor and progressively advanced through various academic ranks, becoming a full professor in 2006, and recently being appointed as the Merkin Institute Professor in 2024. She previously held significant roles, including as an HHMI Investigator from 2005 to 2016 and as Executive Officer from 2017 to 2023. Throughout her career, Newman has made substantial contributions to the fields of biology and geobiology, particularly in the study of microbial communities and their interaction with metal ions. Her research is guided by a commitment to uncovering the mechanisms through which microorganisms influence geochemical cycles.

Research Interests

Experience

Gordon M. Binder/Amgen Professor

2016-01-01 — Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Holding the chair focused on the intersection of biology and nanoscience.

Associate Professor

2005-01-01 — 2006-01-01

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Advanced academic rank focusing on bio-geochemical processes.

Professor

2006-01-01 — 2016-01-01

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Led research and taught in the Department of Biology.

Assistant Professor

2000-01-01 — 2005-01-01

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Beginnings of academic career, contributing to foundational research in geobiology.

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.