Dr. Patrick Shih

Associate Professor

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Biography

Patrick Shih is an associate professor in the Department of Plant and Microbial Biology at the University of California, Berkeley. He also serves as the Director of the Plant Biosystems Design program and is a Faculty Scientist at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. His research explores the intersection of synthetic biology and agriculture, aimed at harnessing plants and microbes through biotechnological approaches. Shih is particularly focused on developing synthetic biology methods to engineer complex plant systems for applications in sustainability, human health, and bioenergy. Additionally, he investigates the origins and evolution of photosynthesis and carbon fixation, contributing to the understanding of these critical biological processes. Shih's work has garnered attention for its potential to create therapeutic compounds and improve nutritional profiles of food products through engineered plants.

Research Interests

Experience

Associate Professor

2019-08-01 — Present

University of California, Berkeley • Berkeley, CA

Teaching and conducting research in synthetic biology and plant-microbe interactions.

Courses

PLANTBI 290 PLANTBI 292 PLANTBI 299 PLANTBI 602 PLANTBI 200E PLANTBI 40

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.