David A. Gold

David A. Gold is an Associate Professor in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences at the University of California, Davis, within the College of Letters and Science. He leads the Gold Lab, which specializes in geobiology and paleobiology, integrating genetics, geochemistry, and developmental biology to study early animal evolution. He also manages the UC Davis Fossil Collection and serves as faculty director for the CalTeach/MAST program.

• Ph.D. in Biology, UCLA (2014)
• B.S. in Ecology and Evolution, UC Irvine (2007)

Dr. Gold's research centers on molecular paleontology, exploring how genetic and developmental mechanisms have shaped animal evolution over deep time. His lab investigates biomineralization—how animals build shells and skeletons—and its implications for climate change. Another key focus is on molecular fossils, using organic geochemistry to identify ancient biological signatures in rocks. The lab also studies early-branching animals like jellyfish and sponges, using the moon jellyfish Aurelia aurita as a model for tissue regeneration and aging.

Dr. Gold is deeply committed to diversifying the geosciences and improving science education. He mentors undergraduate and graduate researchers, many from underrepresented backgrounds, and leads outreach initiatives. His lab has produced students who have won competitive fellowships and gained admission to top graduate programs.

• NSF CAREER Award (2021)
• Agouron Postdoctoral Fellowship (MIT)
• Cordes Postdoctoral Fellowship (Caltech)
• Sinai and Synapses Fellow (2024–2026)

Dr. Gold has received funding from the National Science Foundation and other sources to support his research. His lab fosters collaborations with citizen scientists and institutions like the Bodega Marine Laboratory. He is also actively engaged in public discourse on science, including media appearances in TechCrunch and features in UC Davis publications.

The Gold Lab is a vibrant research group focused on animal geobiology, combining fieldwork, lab experiments, and molecular analysis. It emphasizes interdisciplinary training and community engagement, preparing the next generation of scientists for diverse careers in research and education.