Dr. Ralph Adolphs

Professor

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Biography

Ralph Adolphs is the Bren Professor of Psychology, Neuroscience, and Biology at the California Institute of Technology. He received his B.S. and M.S. from Stanford University in 1986 and completed his Ph.D. at Caltech in 1993. Adolphs has conducted significant research on the neural and psychological foundations of human social behavior. His work primarily focuses on how individuals recognize, perceive, and process emotional and social cues, such as facial expressions. He aims to explore questions surrounding social and moral judgments, emotionally charged decision-making, and the social behavior challenges faced by individuals with autism. Adolphs directed the Caltech Brain Imaging Center from 2008 to 2013 and again from 2017 to 2021, enhancing our understanding of social neuroscience through pioneering studies, including recent research that effectively used smartphone-based eye-tracking to study individuals with autism.

Research Interests

Experience

Bren Professor

— Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Teaching and conducting research in the fields of psychology, neuroscience, and biology.

Director

— Present

Caltech Brain Imaging Center • Pasadena, CA

Oversaw operations and research initiatives at the Brain Imaging Center.

Director

— Present

Caltech Brain Imaging Center • Pasadena, CA

Led research projects related to brain imaging and social behavior.

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.