Dr. Melissa Rolls

Professor

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Biography

Melissa Rolls is the Paul Berg Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Penn State University, serving as the Chair of the Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Biosciences Graduate Program. Her research focuses on understanding neuronal polarity and the cellular mechanisms underlying neuronal injury responses utilizing model organisms. She is particularly interested in the microtubule cytoskeleton, studying how microtubule stability and dynamics contribute to neuronal health, adaptability to injury, and stress responses. Her work aims to identify regulators of microtubule stability which are crucial for neuroprotection and regeneration after injury, emphasizing their role in neuronal structural integrity and function. Throughout her career, she has received numerous awards for her leadership and contributions to science and education, including the Paul Berg Professorship and the Pew Scholar in Biomedical Sciences distinction.

Research Interests

Awards

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Graduate Program Chair Leadership Award

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Paul Berg Professorship

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Shaffer Career Development Professorship

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Dean’s Climate Diversity Award

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Pew Scholar in Biomedical Sciences

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Tershak Outstanding Faculty Teaching Award

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Junior Career Award

Requirements for Pennsylvania State University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Writing
Required:24
Speaking
Required:23
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7
GRE General
Prerequisites
Master's degree in related field for PhD Baccalaureate degree from accredited institution
Application Checklist
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Writing Sample
  • Official Transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

GRE scores are highly recommended but not strictly required for Applied Linguistics.