Dr. Roman Barco

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Roman Barco is an Assistant Professor of Research in Earth Sciences at USC Dornsife. He earned his Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from the University of Southern California in 2014 and holds a B.S. in Microbiology from California State University – Los Angeles, obtained in September 2004. Barco’s research focuses on the multidisciplinary study of geomicrobiology, environmental microbiology, microbial physiology, and microbial taxonomy. He has a diverse background in postdoctoral research, including a National Science Foundation Fellowship at the Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences. His work has investigated the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of microbial systems, particularly the mechanisms by which microbes utilize natural inorganic energy sources such as iron, sulfur, hydrogen, and manganese. Through his research, Barco aims to advance the understanding of microbial contributions to elemental cycling within Earth’s systems and the evolution of novel microorganisms. He is committed to integrating various sub-disciplines of microbiology to address complex environmental challenges.

Research Interests

Experience

Postdoctoral Researcher

— Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Conducted advanced research in microbiology and geomicrobiology.

Postdoctoral Researcher

— Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Worked under the guidance of advisor Katrina Edwards, focusing on microbial systems.

Awards

#

National Science Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship

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.