Dr. K Whaley

Professor

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Biography

Professor K. Birgitta Whaley is a distinguished academic in Chemical Physics and the Director of the Berkeley Quantum Information Computation Center. She completed her B.A. at Oxford University, followed by her Ph.D. at the University of Chicago. Professor Whaley's research interests lie at the intersection of chemistry, physics, and biology, focusing on quantum information, quantum computation, and the control and simulation of complex quantum systems. Her work employs concepts such as superposition and entanglement to explore new methods of processing information in ways that exceed classical capabilities. She has held various prestigious fellowships and lectureships, including being a Golda Meir Fellow and Alexander von Humboldt Senior Scientist. Professor Whaley is a fellow of the American Physical Society and has been involved in editorial roles for several significant journals in her field. Her recent research endeavors aim to unravel the impact of quantum dynamical effects in biological systems, shedding light on the intricate quantum processes that underpin biological functions.

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.