Dr. Karen Dobkins

Professor

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Biography

Karen Dobkins is a Professor at the University of California, San Diego, focusing on the intersection of brain development and the human experience. Her research lab, known as the Human Experience Awareness Lab (HeaLab), seeks to understand the conditions under which humans flourish or struggle. With an emphasis on mental health issues such as depression, loneliness, and anxiety, her work utilizes rigorous methodologies to explore topics like the benefits of meditation on well-being, the impact of verbalizing thoughts for learning, and the effects of nature on pro-environmental behaviors. Dobkins has contributed significantly to the academic community through studies on interoception and social connection, and cultural differences in romantic preferences, reflecting her dedication to understanding human psychology in diverse contexts. She has published various works in reputable journals and presented her findings at numerous conferences. Her ongoing projects continue to investigate themes surrounding cultural ideals and personal preferences, with a commitment to applying her research to real-world challenges.

Research Interests

Requirements for University of California, San Diego

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:85
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Duolingo
Overall Score
Required:120
Overall
Required:120
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in physical, biological, or earth sciences, mathematics, or engineering. Differential and integral calculus. One year of calculus-based physics with laboratory. One year of chemistry with laboratory.
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose (max 2 pages)
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Application fee ($135 domestic / $155 international)
Specialization Notes

Administered by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Curricular groups include Climate-Ocean-Atmosphere (COAP), Geosciences (GEO), and Ocean Biosciences (OBP).