Dr. Matthew Backus

Associate Professor

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Biography

Matthew Backus is an Associate Professor in the Department of Economics at the University of California, Berkeley. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor in 2012. His research interests primarily focus on Antitrust, Auctions, Bargaining, Productivity, and Welfare Economics. These areas encompass a range of economic theories and applications that explore market structures, the efficiency of resource allocation, and the dynamics of negotiations and competition among firms. He is also involved in teaching and mentoring students in various economics fields, contributing to the academic development of future economists. As a faculty member at UC Berkeley, he maintains an active presence in the academic community through research collaborations and presentations, contributing to the ongoing discourse in economics.

Research Interests

Antitrust Auctions Bargaining Productivity Welfare Economics

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.