David Valentine

David Valentine is a Distinguished Professor of Geochemistry and Microbiology at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), holding the Norris Presidential Endowed Chair in Earth Science. He is the founding director of the Marine Science program in the College of Creative Studies. His research focuses on microbial interactions with environmental chemicals, particularly in marine systems. He earned degrees from UC San Diego and UC Irvine, followed by an NSF postdoctoral fellowship at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. With over 150 publications and three books, his work bridges fundamental science and applied environmental policy, including congressional testimony and media engagement. His lab employs field and laboratory approaches to study biogeochemical processes, microbial ecology, and carbon sequestration strategies.

Education: BS in Biochemistry/Chemistry and MS in Chemistry (UC San Diego); MS and PhD in Earth System Science (UC Irvine).

Research interests include microbial degradation of hydrocarbons, methane biogeochemistry, and the application of microbial technology to environmental challenges. Current projects involve deep-sea waste disposal impacts, seaweed-based carbon removal, and ocean exploration. The Valentine Lab collaborates globally, using advanced tools like submersibles and isotopic analysis.

Advising and grants: Supervises graduate and postdoctoral researchers (e.g., Kelsey Gosselin, Marianna Karagiannis). Engaged in funded projects on topics such as microbial response to oil spills and nitrogen cycling in anoxic basins. His work informs policy on environmental remediation and climate mitigation.