Dr. John O Doherty

Professor

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Biography

John P. O'Doherty studies the neural basis of reward-related learning and decision making, focusing on how the human brain learns from experience to make decisions that maximize future rewards and minimize costs. He has held various academic positions at Caltech, progressing from Assistant Professor to his current role as Fletcher Jones Professor of Decision Neuroscience since 2021. O'Doherty has served as Director of the Caltech Brain Imaging Center from 2013 to 2017. His research encompasses areas such as neuroimaging, associative learning, and the affective neuroscience of taste and olfaction.

Research Interests

Experience

Fletcher Jones Professor of Decision Neuroscience

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Holding the position of Fletcher Jones Professor specializing in Decision Neuroscience.

Professor

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Promoted to Professor, continuing research and teaching responsibilities.

Associate Professor

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Served as Associate Professor, contributing to research in decision neuroscience.

Assistant Professor

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Started academic career as Assistant Professor.

Director

— Present

Caltech Brain Imaging Center • California Institute of Technology

Led the Center focusing on brain imaging techniques and research.

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.