Patricia Dove

Patricia M. Dove is a University Distinguished Professor and C.P. Miles Professor of Science at Virginia Tech's College of Science, Department of Geosciences. Her research focuses on biomineralization, exploring how organisms form functional mineralized structures like shells and teeth. She investigates the interplay between organic molecules and mineral nucleation/kinetics, with applications in biomaterials and environmental science.

Education: Ph.D. (Geochemistry, Princeton University, 1991), M.S. (Geochemistry, Virginia Tech, 1984), B.S. (Agronomy, Virginia Tech, 1980).

Research interests include environmental geochemistry, biomaterials, and the thermodynamics of mineral-water interactions. Her work bridges fundamental science with applications in drug delivery, energy, and sustainable materials.

Notable awards include the 2022 International Mineralogical Association Medal, 2017 Thomas Jefferson Medal, and 2012 election to the National Academy of Sciences. She chairs the National Academy of Sciences' Section 15 (Geology) and has held leadership roles in scientific organizations.

Her lab, the Earth Materials Group, explores biomineralization mechanisms and their implications for Earth systems and technology. Collaborations span geochemistry, biology, and engineering.