Dr. Ignacio Chapela

Associate Professor

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Biography

Ignacio Chapela is an Associate Professor in the Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management at the University of California, Berkeley. His research focuses on the laboratory of microbial ecology, specifically targeting a unique group of life known as microbes. Chapela's work primarily investigates eukaryotic microbes and their roles within terrestrial ecosystems, particularly fungi. He aims to answer fundamental questions about these organisms, such as their abundance and distribution patterns. His research emphasizes the complexity of microbial identity and the various forms they can take, from filamentous fungi to yeasts. Currently, he is working on developing methods and instrumentation that will enhance our ability to map microbial organisms across geographical scales with precision, utilizing DNA-sequence specificity. His expertise spans various domains including agriculture, biotechnology, environmental science, and microbial biology, contributing significantly to policy management.

Research Interests

Courses

Environmental Biology Introduction to Conservation Resource Studies Senior Seminar Conservation Resource Studies Individual Research

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.