Dr. Houman Owhadi

Professor

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Biography

Professor Houman Owhadi's research focuses on the interplays of numerical approximation, statistical inference, and game theoretic perspectives. His work emphasizes the statistical numerical approximation, numerical homogenization, operator adapted wavelets, fast solvers, Gaussian process regression, machine learning, multi-scale stochastic analysis, stochastic mechanics, geometric integration, and uncertainty quantification. He has a distinct approach that integrates discovery and automation possibilities emerging from interactions in these fields. Before his current role, he served as Assistant Professor at Caltech from 2004 to 2011 and has been a professor since 2011, with the title of IBM Professor starting in 2025. With a strong academic foundation from leading institutions, his contributions to applied computational mathematics continue to influence both education and research.

Research Interests

Statistical Numerical Approximation Numerical Homogenization Operator Adapted Wavelets Fast Solvers Gaussian Process Regression Machine Learning Multi-Scale Stochastic Analysis Stochastic Mechanics Geometric Integration Uncertainty Quantification

Experience

Assistant Professor

2004-01-01 — 2011-01-01

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Assistant Professor at Caltech specializing in applied computational mathematics.

Professor

2011-01-01 — 2025-01-01

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Professor at Caltech with a focus on applied computational mathematics.

IBM Professor

2025-01-01 — Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

To be appointed IBM Professor at Caltech in applied computational mathematics.

Courses

ACM 118 – Gaussian Processes Kernel Methods ACM/IDS 216 – Markov Chains, Discrete Stochastic Processes Applications ACM 118 – Stochastic Processes Regression

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.