Dr. Lisa Alvarez Cohen

Professor

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Biography

Lisa Alvarez-Cohen is a renowned professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley. She holds the Fred Claire Sauer Professorship and has served as the Vice Provost for Academic Planning. With a focus on environmental microbiology, her research addresses complex issues such as the biotransformation of environmental water contaminants, bioremediation, and the application of molecular and isotopic techniques for understanding microbial communities. Her lab investigates critical challenges in wastewater treatment, including innovative methods for nutrient removal and the management of emerging contaminants like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). Alvarez-Cohen is dedicated to integrating advanced microbial ecology with cutting-edge technologies to enhance bioremediation processes. She has received numerous accolades for her work, including the China 1,000 Talents National Award and the ASCE Simon W. Freese Environmental Engineering Award, highlighting her significant contributions to the field of environmental engineering and microbiology. Her academic credentials include a Ph.D. and M.S. in Environmental Engineering Science from Stanford University and a B.A. in Engineering, Applied Science from Harvard University.

Research Interests

Experience

Vice Provost Academic Planning

2020-01-01 — Present

University of California, Berkeley • Berkeley, CA

Professor

2003-01-01 — Present

University of California, Berkeley • Berkeley, CA

Awards

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China 1,000 Talents National Award

2017-01-01
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ASCE Simon W. Freese Environmental Engineering Award

2015-01-01
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W.M. Keck Foundation Award Engineering Teaching Excellence

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National Science Young Investigator Award

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.