Richey Davis

Richey Davis is a Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Virginia Tech, specializing in polymer science and nanomedicine. His research focuses on the design of polymer-based nanoparticles for applications in drug delivery, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents, and biomedical engineering. He holds a Ph.D. from Princeton University (1983) and a B.S. from Clemson University (1977).

Key research interests include the physical chemistry of polymer solutions, ion-containing polymers, and self-assembly processes. His work emphasizes the development of stable colloidal systems and nanoparticles for targeted therapy, such as magnetite nanoparticles for MRI and drug delivery systems like NanoBEADS (nanoscale bacteria-enabled autonomous drug delivery systems).

Recent publications highlight advancements in MRI-guided ultrasound surgery using custom iron-based coupling media, encapsulation of therapeutic agents (e.g., PI3K inhibitors, CRISPR-Cas9 plasmids), and biofabrication techniques for drug delivery systems. His nanotechnology research spans materials science, biocompatible materials design, and optoelectronic applications.

Dr. Davis collaborates on projects involving gene therapy vectors (e.g., PLGA nanoparticles for CRISPR delivery), antibiotic-loaded nanoparticles for chronic infections, and biomaterials for tissue engineering. His lab focuses on translating fundamental polymer science into clinical applications through interdisciplinary approaches.