Dr. Ellen Rothenberg

Professor

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Biography

Dr. Ellen Rothenberg is the Albert Billings Ruddock Professor of Biology at the California Institute of Technology, where she is a member of the Division of Biology and Biological Engineering. Her research group operates at the intersection of developmental biology, immunology, genomics, and systems biology, with a focus on the gene networks that govern early T-cell development. Rothenberg's work aims to generate a comprehensive understanding of the molecular processes involved in T-lymphocyte development from mouse hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. A primary area of interest is the lineage choice events that lead cells to select T-cell fate while excluding alternative developmental pathways. Rothenberg's research has optimized in vitro differentiation techniques to track sequence changes in cells and create detailed gene expression profiles across developmental stages. Her group is analyzing T-cell specification on a genome-wide scale, providing insights into the transcriptional and epigenetic changes that occur with altered transcription factor activity, thereby sequentially governing T-cell identity.

Research Interests

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.