Dr. Sarah Vaughn

Associate Professor

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Biography

Sarah E. Vaughn is an Associate Professor in the Department of Anthropology at the University of California, Berkeley. Her research focuses on the intersections of environmental anthropology, critical social theory, and science technology studies, particularly regarding climate change adaptation. Vaughn obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree from Cornell University in 2006, majoring in Anthropology, and received her Ph.D. from Columbia University in 2013. Her work examines the social networks of accountability that influence climate adaptation projects, with fieldwork primarily situated in Guyana and Bermuda. Vaughn challenges conventional narratives by exploring how climate adaptation intersects with cultural and engineering practices. She is the author of the book 'Engineering Vulnerability: Pursuit of Climate Adaptation,' which critiques global climate change initiatives through the lens of settler colonialism. Her recent research projects further investigate the dynamics of technology in climate adaptation and the ethical implications of the reinsurance industry in environmental governance. Vaughn's research is supported by prestigious fellowships and grants, indicative of her active role in academia and contribution to the field of anthropology.

Research Interests

Experience

Associate Professor

2021-01-01 — Present

University of California, Berkeley • Berkeley, CA, USA

Teaching and conducting research in the field of environmental anthropology, focusing on climate change and its socio-cultural implications.

Courses

Black Atlantic Environments Climate Change Senses Nature Society: Anthropological Approaches Anthropology of Carbon Environmental Ethnographies Fundamentals of Anthropological Theory Technological Selves Sociotechnical Systems

Requirements for University of California, Berkeley

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
GRE Subject
Overall Score
Required:500
Overall
Required:500
TOEFL
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or recognized equivalent Preparation comparable to undergraduate major at Berkeley in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics 2 full years lower-division work (Calculus, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations, Multivariable Calculus) 8 one-semester upper-division courses (Real Analysis, Complex Analysis, Abstract Algebra, Linear Algebra)
Application Checklist
  • Graduate Application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Personal History Statement
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Unofficial Transcripts
  • C.V./Resume
  • Course and Textbook List
Specialization Notes

The Mathematics Subject GRE is required for the Fall 2026 admissions cycle. General GRE is optional.