Dr. Gul Dolen

Assistant Professor

Build a Statement of Purpose

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

Biography

Gul Dolen is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Solomon H Snyder Department of Neuroscience. Her research focuses on understanding the neurobiological processes involved in social behaviors and the underlying mechanisms of diseases such as autism and schizophrenia. The Dölen lab utilizes a combination of traditional and cutting-edge techniques to dissect the biological basis of social behavior, examining synaptic mechanisms within the brain's mesocorticolimbic reward system. This work includes investigating the role of synaptic plasticity and neuromodulation in social cognition and the development of therapeutic strategies for related disorders. The lab is particularly interested in how social behaviors evolved across diverse species and the potential cost of these behaviors to individuals. Research in the lab also involves testing mouse models to explore autism-related social phenotypes and the genetic factors that influence these behaviors, aiming to uncover unifying principles behind the common causes of autism.

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.