UC San Diego Notable Alumni

The University of California, San Diego (UCSD), located in La Jolla, California, is a prestigious public research university renowned for its innovative academic programs and cutting-edge scientific contributions. Established in 1960, UCSD has cultivated a legacy of excellence, producing alumni who have made significant impacts across diverse fields such as politics, academia, science, and business. From Nobel laureates to industry pioneers, UCSD graduates continue to shape the world with their groundbreaking work and leadership.

Notable Alumni:

• Craig Venter - Pioneering geneticist who sequenced the human genome, advancing biotechnology.
• Susumu Tonegawa - Nobel Prize-winning immunologist for discoveries in antibody diversity mechanisms.
• Robert Engle - Nobel laureate in Economics for methods of analyzing economic time series.
• Mario J. Molina - Nobel Prize-winning chemist for research on ozone depletion causes.
• Venki Ramakrishnan - Nobel laureate in Chemistry for studies on ribosome structure.
• Kim Stanley Robinson - Acclaimed science fiction author known for the Mars trilogy.
• Angela Davis - Influential activist and scholar in civil rights and social justice.
• Benicio del Toro - Academy Award-winning actor known for roles in major films.
• Nick Woodman - Founder of GoPro, revolutionizing action camera technology and adventure sports.
• Kate Rubins - NASA astronaut and biologist who conducted research aboard the ISS.
• Andrew Viterbi - Co-founder of Qualcomm, innovator in digital communication technologies.
• Irwin M. Jacobs - Co-founder of Qualcomm, philanthropist supporting education and technology.
• Sally Ride - First American woman astronaut, inspiring generations in STEM fields.

Famous People Who Attended University of California, San Diego:

• Benicio del Toro - Oscar-winning actor and producer.
• Milana Vayntrub - Actress and comedian, known for AT&T commercials.
• Gregory Peck - Iconic actor, briefly attended UCSD pre-med program.
• Khalid - Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter of modern R&B hits.
• Ricardo Chavira - Actor known for "Desperate Housewives" television series.

The alumni of UCSD have left an indelible mark on both local and global stages, driving innovation in science and technology, advocating for social change, and enriching cultural landscapes through arts and entertainment. Their contributions, from life-saving medical research to transformative business ventures, highlight the university’s role as a hub of intellectual and creative power. For more detailed biographies and updated lists of distinguished graduates, visit the official UCSD alumni page at ucsd.edu/alumni. Note: While extensive efforts were made to verify alumni data, some information may be limited or require further confirmation from official sources.