Dr. Rajiv Kalia

Professor

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Biography

Rajiv Kalia is a Professor of Computer Science, Chemical Engineering, and Materials Science at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering and a Professor of Physics and Astronomy at the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences. His research focuses on multi-scale simulations of nano-structured materials and processes using various forms of molecular dynamics. Kalia's current research endeavors include petascale simulations of layered materials, self-healing nanomaterials, shock propagation in nanomaterials, and AI-driven design of quantum materials. He has been recognized with multiple prestigious awards including the USC Viterbi School of Engineering Senior Research Award and a fellowship from the American Physical Society. Kalia has also contributed to education by designing graduate-level courses and establishing dual-degree curriculums in physical sciences and computer science.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

1976-01-01 — Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Teaching and conducting research in the fields of Computer Science, Chemical Engineering, and Materials Science.

Awards

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USC Viterbi School of Engineering Senior Research Award

2010-01-01
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American Physical Society Fellow

2007-01-01
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FOM Fellowship

2000-01-01
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LSU Distinguished Faculty Award

1999-01-01
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DARPA Sustained Excellence Award

1997-01-01
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Japan Society Promotion Science Fellowship

1991-01-01

Requirements for University of Southern California

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
GRE General
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Math, or Hard Science
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Letters of Recommendation (not required for MS CS, but allowed)
Specialization Notes

GRE is NOT required for Master's applicants for 2025-2026.