Dr. R Alvarez

Professor

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Biography

Michael Alvarez is a prominent academic focusing on public opinion, voting behavior, electoral politics, election technology, and statistical computational modeling. He earned his B.A. from Carleton College in 1986, M.A. from Duke University in 1990, and Ph.D. in 1992. His career began as an Assistant Professor at Caltech from 1992 to 1995, progressing to Associate Professor until 2002, and continuing as a full Professor thereafter. In 2024, he was honored with the title of Flintridge Foundation Professor. His research has been pivotal in understanding the dynamics of electoral processes and campaign strategies, often leveraging statistical methods and machine learning. Alvarez's studies cover a wide array of topics including electoral administration, election security, public opinion, and the methodology behind political science research. He has been recognized for his contributions to the field, including receiving a Career Achievement Award from the Society for Political Methodology in 2025. His engagement in interdisciplinary initiatives reflects his commitment to applying scientific understanding to societal issues, evident in Caltech's newly funded Biopolicy Initiative, aiming to bridge science and policy through informed discourse and innovation in public administration.

Research Interests

Experience

Flintridge Foundation Professor

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Current title held by Michael Alvarez after being a Professor since 2002.

Professor

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Contributed significantly to the field of political science and public opinion research.

Associate Professor

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Advanced research and teaching in political methodology.

Assistant Professor

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Initiated academic career in political science.

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.