Dr. Michael Gibilisco

Professor

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Biography

Michael Gibilisco's research interests include formal political theory, political economy, conflict, and political methodology. His current research applies dynamic game theory to study the evolution of intergroup conflict, legislative policymaking, and the selection of institutions, with implications for minority rights. Theoretically, he focuses on dynamic games, particularly related to aspects of equilibrium existence, computational tools, and structural estimation. Gibilisco has published work addressing the interplay of political entities and their strategies in response to violent actions from competing groups, shedding light on how democracies might inadvertently provoke conflict. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Creighton University, a Master’s from the University of Rochester, and a Ph.D. completed in 2017. He has been part of Caltech since 2017, initially serving as an Assistant Professor before becoming a Professor in 2024.

Research Interests

Experience

Assistant Professor

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Instructor of Political Science, focusing on formal political theory and methodology.

Professor

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Leading research and teaching initiatives within the Political Science department.

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.