Dr. Vahe Petrosian

Professor

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Biography

Professor Vahe Petrosian focuses on theoretical astrophysics and cosmology, particularly in high-energy astrophysical processes. His research investigates the global properties of the universe, aiming to understand its evolution at high redshifts. He explores the development of populations of sources such as galaxies, quasars, active galactic nuclei, and gamma-ray bursts, utilizing advanced statistical techniques in collaboration with Professor B. Efron from the Department of Statistics. Petrosian's work employs gravitational lensing to measure the universe's mass and interpret non-thermal astronomical sources where particles are accelerated to high energies, producing various forms of radiation. He studies these phenomena across multiple scales involving diverse objects, including the magnetosphere of planets, stellar flares, supernovae, accretion disks of black holes, and clusters of galaxies. His contributions to plasma physics emphasize the acceleration processes of particles within these high-energy astrophysical environments.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

1980-01-01 — Present

Stanford University • Stanford, California

Teaching and conducting research in theoretical astrophysics and high-energy astrophysical processes.

Assistant Professor

1969-01-01 — 1971-01-01

Stanford University • Stanford, California

Engaged in teaching and early research in astrophysics.

Research Fellow

1967-01-01 — 1969-01-01

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, California

Conducted research in astrophysics.

Awards

#

Foreign Member

2008-01-01

Courses

PHYSICS 161 PHYSICS 261 APPPHYS 291 APPPHYS 290 PHYSICS 190 PHYSICS 490 PHYSICS 205

Requirements for Stanford University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:26
Reading
Required:26
Writing
Required:26
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:100
GRE General
Verbal
Required:160
Quantitative
Required:165
Analytical Writing
Required:4.5
Overall
Required:4.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor degree from an accredited institution Strong background in mathematics and programming
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

The Computer Science department emphasizes research potential. GRE General is currently optional but recommended for some tracks.