Dr. Karthish Manthiram

Professor

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Biography

Karthish Manthiram is a Bren Professor of Chemical Engineering at Caltech, where he focuses on advancements in electrified organic synthesis, electrocatalysis, and decarbonization chemical synthesis. He received his B.S. from Stanford University in 2010 and his Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley, in 2015. Following his Ph.D., he was a Postdoctoral Associate at Caltech until 2016 and then an Assistant Professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology from 2017 to 2021. His research group at Caltech develops synthetic paradigms that convert carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and water into a wide range of chemicals and materials using renewable electricity. This innovative approach aims to harness the source materials of carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen, and oxygen from the environment, allowing for the assembly of complex molecules. The lab's work includes designing tailored electrode surfaces to enhance direct electron transfers for enabling efficient biological energy carrier generation. Karthish's significant contributions in the field have been recognized through various awards and fellowships, including the William H. Hurt Scholar title. He actively teaches courses on electrocatalytic reaction engineering, emphasizing advanced topics and the thermodynamic foundations of electrifying chemical reactions.

Research Interests

Experience

Postdoctoral Associate

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Conducted research in chemical engineering focusing on electrocatalysis and renewable energy applications.

Assistant Professor

— Present

Massachusetts Institute of Technology • Cambridge, MA

Taught courses and conducted research in the field of chemical engineering.

Professor

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Currently serving as a Bren Professor and leading research initiatives in chemical engineering.

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.