Dr. John Vidale

Professor

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Biography

Prof. Vidale’s research focuses on earthquakes, Earth structure, volcanoes, and hazards associated with strong shaking. His work encompasses numerical modeling and basic science, aiming to contribute to earthquake hazard mitigation. He has held significant leadership positions including the Director of the Southern California Earthquake Center from 2017 to 2018 and served as the Director of the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network from 2006 to 2017. Vidale has a long-standing affiliation with the University of California, Los Angeles, where he was an Associate and then Full Professor from 1996 to 2006. His career includes work as a researcher for the United States Geological Survey and the University of California, Santa Cruz, after completing his post-doctoral studies at Caltech. Vidale's contributions to the field have earned him several accolades, including the Dornsife Dean’s Professor title, IRIS/SSA Distinguished Lectureship, and fellowship in the American Geophysical Union. He is a recognized leader in natural science communication and has been involved in various research and educational initiatives.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

2017-08-01 — Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Tenured faculty member conducting research in Earth sciences and educating students.

Director

2017-01-01 — 2018-01-01

Southern California Earthquake Center • Los Angeles, CA

Oversaw research and coordinate efforts to understand seismic activity.

Director

2006-09-01 — 2017-08-01

Pacific Northwest Seismic Network • Seattle, WA

Led initiatives to monitor and respond to seismic events in the Pacific Northwest.

Associate Professor / Full Professor

1996-09-01 — 2006-09-01

University of California, Los Angeles • Los Angeles, CA

Instructed students in Earth sciences and conducted pertinent research.

Researcher

1990-01-01 — 1996-09-01

United States Geological Survey •

Conducted research on geological hazards and seismic activity.

Researcher

1987-01-01 — 1990-09-01

University of California, Santa Cruz •

Performed research in seismology and related fields.

Awards

#

Phi Kappa Phi Faculty Recognition Award

#

National Academy Member

2017-10-01
#

Macelwane Medal

1994-10-01

Requirements for University of Southern California

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
GRE General
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Math, or Hard Science
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Letters of Recommendation (not required for MS CS, but allowed)
Specialization Notes

GRE is NOT required for Master's applicants for 2025-2026.