Dr. Steven Cummer

Professor

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Biography

Dr. Steven Cummer received his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University in 1997. He joined Duke University in 1999 after a tenure as a NASA Goddard Space Flight Center postdoctoral research associate. His research predominantly focuses on theoretical and experimental electromagnetic problems relating to geophysical remote sensing and engineered electromagnetic materials. His contributions have led to notable recognition, including the National Science Foundation CAREER Award and the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers in 2001. Cummer has authored numerous publications in high-impact journals covering topics such as metamaterials, lightning phenomena, and electromagnetic interactions, establishing him as a leader in his field.

Research Interests

Metamaterials Geophysical Remote Sensing Engineered Electromagnetic Materials

Experience

William H. Younger Distinguished Professor

1999-01-01 — Present

Duke University • Durham, NC

Helped advance the field of electromagnetics by integrating metamaterial designs into practical applications.

Associate Chair for Faculty Affairs

2021-01-01 — Present

Duke University • Durham, NC

Oversaw faculty-related policies and development.

Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering

1999-01-01 — Present

Duke University • Durham, NC

Teaching and conducting research in the realm of electrical and computer engineering.

Awards

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National Science Foundation CAREER Award

2001-01-01
#

Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers

2001-01-01

Courses

Advanced Topics in Electrical and Computer Engineering Waves and Matter Projects in Electrical and Computer Engineering Fields and Waves: Fundamentals of Information Propagation

Requirements for Duke University

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.2
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:24
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Multivariable Calculus Introduction to Physics (mechanics) Introduction to Chemistry
Application Checklist
  • Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Resume/CV
  • Application Fee ($95)
  • Video Introduction
Specialization Notes

Department of Biomedical Engineering (MS program)

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GRE General
Application Checklist
  • Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Resume/CV
  • Application Fee ($105)
  • GRE Scores (Optional for 2026)
Specialization Notes

Department of Biomedical Engineering (PhD program)

Master Program
Requirements
GRE General
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:24
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:90
Prerequisites
Calculus Discrete Mathematics Data Structures Algorithms
Application Checklist
  • Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Resume/CV
  • Application Fee ($105)
  • GRE General (Required)
Specialization Notes

Department of Computer Science (MS program)

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:24
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:90
Application Checklist
  • Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Resume/CV
  • Application Fee ($105)
  • GRE Scores (Optional)
Specialization Notes

Department of Computer Science (PhD program)

Master Program
Requirements
GRE General
Prerequisites
Calculus-based Probability and Mathematical Statistics sequence Matrix Algebra Applied Regression Analysis
Application Checklist
  • Transcripts
  • Candidate Statement
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • CV/Resume
  • Application Fee ($105)
  • GRE Scores (Required)
Specialization Notes

Department of Statistical Science (MS program)

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GRE General
Prerequisites
Multivariate Calculus Linear Algebra Real Analysis Calculus-based Mathematical Statistics/Probability
Application Checklist
  • Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • CV/Resume
  • Application Fee ($105)
  • GRE Scores (General Required)
Specialization Notes

Department of Statistical Science (PhD program)

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:24
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:90
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in biological sciences, chemistry or engineering
Application Checklist
  • Online Application
  • Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Resume/CV
  • Application Fee ($105)
Specialization Notes

Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology (Molecular Cancer Biology PhD)

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:24
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:90
Application Checklist
  • Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • CV/Resume
  • Life Experiences Statement
  • Application Fee ($105)
Specialization Notes

Department of Biology (PhD program)