Dr. Ravi Ravichandran

Professor

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Biography

Professor Guruswami Ravichandran is a leading researcher in the field of Mechanical and Civil Engineering at the California Institute of Technology. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Engineering from the University of Madras, followed by multiple master's degrees from Brown University and a Ph.D. in 1987. He has held various positions at Caltech, advancing from Assistant Professor in 1990 to his current role as Goode Professor. Over the years, he has contributed significantly as the Associate Director and later Director of the Graduate Aerospace Laboratories. His research is highly regarded, focusing on deformation failure materials, dynamic behavior, wave propagation, micro/nano mechanics, composites, active materials, and biomaterials. Professor Ravichandran's work has implications across engineering disciplines, particularly in experimental mechanics, and he plays a critical role in shaping future engineers through his teaching and leadership.

Research Interests

Experience

Goode Professor

2005-01-01 — Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Serving as a faculty member and leading research in mechanical engineering.

Associate Professor

1995-01-01 — 1999-01-01

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Promoted from Assistant Professor, continued research and teaching in mechanical engineering.

Assistant Professor

1990-01-01 — 1995-01-01

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Initiated academic career at Caltech.

Director

2009-01-01 — 2015-01-01

Graduate Aerospace Laboratories, California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Led the Graduate Aerospace Laboratories during this period.

Associate Director

2008-01-01 — 2009-01-01

Graduate Aerospace Laboratories, California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Assisted in the administration and direction of graduate programs.

Division Chair

2015-01-01 — 2021-01-01

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Oversaw the department's administrative functions.

Courses

Ae/AM/CE/ME 102 abc – Mechanics Structures Solids Ae/AM/ME 215 – Dynamic Behavior Materials

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.