Dr. Rajiv Kalia

Professor

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Biography

Rajiv Kalia is a Professor in the Mork Family Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science and the Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science at the University of Southern California (USC). His research focuses on multi-scale simulations of nano-structured materials and processes using quantum molecular dynamics, reactive molecular dynamics, and dissipative particle dynamics. His current research interests include the synthesis of layered materials, self-healing nanomaterials, structural dynamics of confined fluids, and AI-driven design of quantum materials architectures. Kalia has made significant contributions to the fields of physics and engineering and has been recognized as a Fellow of the American Physical Society. His teaching initiatives include the development of a graduate-level course on Mathematical Methods in Deep Learning and a dual-degree curriculum for Ph.D. students in physical sciences and computer science. Kalia has received numerous awards for his research excellence, including the USC Viterbi School of Engineering Senior Research Award and the DARPA Sustained Excellence Award.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

1991-01-01 — Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Professor in the Mork Family Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science and the Thomas Lord Department of Computer Science.

Awards

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Senior Research Award

2010-01-01
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Fellow

2007-01-01
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Fellowship

2000-01-01
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Distinguished Faculty Award

1999-01-01
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Sustained Excellence Award

1997-01-01
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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.