Geoffrey Blake

Geoffrey Blake is a Professor of Cosmochemistry and Planetary Sciences and Professor of Chemistry at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). He received his B.S. from Duke University in 1981 and his Ph.D. from Caltech in 1986. His academic career at Caltech progressed from Assistant Professor of Cosmochemistry (1987-93) to Associate Professor of Cosmochemistry and Planetary Sciences (1993-97), to Professor (1997-99), and finally to his current dual appointment as Professor of Cosmochemistry and Planetary Sciences and Professor of Chemistry (1999-present). He also served as Deputy Director of the Owens Valley Radio Observatory (2000-06) and Master of Student Houses (2009-14).

Professor Blake's research focuses on applying innovative spectroscopic tools to investigate chemical and physical processes in natural environments ranging from the interstellar medium to living cells. His work aims to understand the evolution of molecular diversity from atoms in the interstellar medium to complex molecules throughout the solar system and in life. He conducts both remote sensing and laboratory studies, with active research in three major scientific areas. His group is actively developing new spectrometers across the Terahertz (THz, 30-1000 μm) region of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Analysis of Professor Blake's recent publications reveals a strong focus on advanced spectroscopic techniques, particularly in the terahertz range, and their application to both astrochemistry and physical chemistry problems. His work spans from laboratory studies of molecular clusters and water structure to astronomical observations of protoplanetary disks and exoplanet atmospheres. There is a clear interdisciplinary approach, connecting chemistry, physics, and astronomy to address fundamental questions about molecular evolution and cosmic processes.

Professor Blake has mentored numerous graduate students who have gone on to successful careers in academia, national laboratories, and industry. His students have received prestigious awards, including the 2024 ACS Astrochemistry Dissertation Award (Olivia Wilkins). He has also secured research funding that supports his group's development of advanced spectroscopic instrumentation and related research activities.

The Blake Group operates state-of-the-art laboratories for terahertz and microwave spectroscopy at Caltech. They have developed innovative instrumentation including decade-spanning high-resolution terahertz time-domain spectrometers and frequency comb systems. The group collaborates with researchers across multiple disciplines and institutions, contributing to major astronomical observations with facilities like JWST and ground-based observatories.