Dr. Xaq Pitkow

Associate Professor

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Biography

Xaq Pitkow is an Associate Professor at the Neuroscience Institute at Carnegie Mellon University. He leads the Xaq Lab, focusing on exploring the intersection of brain computation and perception, leveraging principles from machine learning and neural coding to understand how the brain processes sensory information. His work includes developing models that incorporate insights from neuroscience to better understand cognitive processes such as decision-making and learning. Dr. Pitkow's research aims to bridge experimental and computational approaches, making contributions that have implications for artificial intelligence and neuroscience. He is committed to fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and mentoring students in the field of cognitive neuroscience. Through his research, he aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying sensory perception and cognitive function, with a goal of advancing both theoretical understanding and practical applications in various domains.

Research Interests

Requirements for Carnegie Mellon University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
GRE General
Verbal
Required:158
Quantitative
Required:149
Analytical Writing
Required:4
Overall
Required:4
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Psychology or related field Research experience/publications
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • GRE scores (optional but reported in profile)
  • English Proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo)
Specialization Notes

Admission is extremely competitive with no strict GPA cut-offs; holistic review is used.