Dr. William Berelson

Professor

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Biography

William Berelson is the Paxson H. Offield Professor in the Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Southern California. He specializes in biogeochemistry, particularly within the realms of geobiology, oceanography, and paleo-oceanography. His research employs an interdisciplinary approach to study the chemical and microbiological processes occurring in sea floor sediments. Berelson has discovered novel microbial-geochemical interactions, significantly contributing to the quantification of global ocean fluxes. He has also utilized robotic technology to explore deep-sea sediments, while investigating biogeochemical reactions in both sediments and the water column, impacting our understanding of local and global carbon cycling. His embedded research is driven by the quest to link modern geochemical rates and processes with observations and interpretations derived from the rock record.

Research Interests

Biogeochemistry Geobiology Oceanography Paleo-Oceanography

Experience

Professor

2008-01-01 — Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Associate Professor

2004-09-01 — 2008-01-01

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Research Associate Professor

1996-01-01 — 2004-01-01

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Research Assistant Professor

1988-01-01 — 1995-01-01

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Postdoctoral Research Associate

1985-01-01 — 1988-01-01

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Awards

#

USC Raubenheimer Outstanding Senior Faculty Award

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.