Dr. Timothy Bowles

Associate Professor

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Biography

Timothy Bowles is an agroecologist whose research investigates soil health, climate resilience, and sustainable farming systems. He leads the Berkeley Agroecology Lab and conducts interdisciplinary research on farming systems that rely on restoring biodiversity to produce food rather than using non-renewable harmful inputs. His lab studies how farming systems in California, the broader U.S., and around the world affect soil health and climate resilience. Additionally, the lab collaborates widely to understand the policies and socioeconomic issues that help or hinder farming systems. Bowles's research contributes to the design, management, and broader adoption of farming systems that support environmental stewardship and the production of healthy food while supporting farmers' livelihoods. He has received funding from the NSF, USDA, and the State of California for his work on climate resilience, soil health, and agricultural sustainability. At UC Berkeley, Bowles teaches a capstone course in agroecology for undergraduates in the Food Systems Minor, offers rotating graduate courses, and mentors PhD students and postdocs in sustainable agriculture and ecosystem management.

Research Interests

Courses

Individual Research Community Engagement Agri-Food Systems Interdisciplinary Food Agriculture Studies Directed Group Study in ESPM Supervised Research: Interdisciplinary Studies Agricultural Ecology

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.