Shuhai Xiao Awarded Clifton C. Garvin, Jr. Endowed Professorship at Virginia Tech
Shuhai Xiao, a professor of geobiology in the College of Science at Virginia Tech, has been honored with the Clifton C. Garvin, Jr. Endowed Professorship by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors. This professorship, established in 1984 through a generous gift from Clifton C. Garvin Jr., supports distinguished academic positions within the university.
Prior to joining Virginia Tech in 2003, Xiao served as an assistant professor at Tulane University. He was promoted to professor in 2008 and designated as a University Distinguished Professor in 2025, marking him as one of the few full-time faculty members in the College of Science to be a member of the National Academy of Sciences.
A paleontologist acclaimed for his expertise in early life evolution on Earth, Xiao’s accolades include his induction into the National Academy of Sciences in 2023, the Virginia Outstanding Scientist Award in 2017, and a Guggenheim Fellowship in 2010. He has also been recognized as a fellow by several prestigious professional societies.
Throughout his career, Xiao has published over 300 peer-reviewed articles and written nine books, with his research receiving more than 26,000 citations. He has made significant contributions to the understanding of evolutionary processes, with notable publications in prominent journals such as Science and Nature.
Beyond research, Xiao has delivered over 150 invited talks and secured numerous grants from the National Science Foundation and NASA. His leadership roles in the scientific community include serving on various commissions, panels, and editorial boards.
In addition to his research and leadership, Xiao is dedicated to education, having supervised seven master’s theses and 15 doctoral dissertations while teaching a wide array of courses within the geosciences curriculum. He is known for his strong commitment to student learning and a holistic approach to Earth science.
Additionally, Xiao has been a supportive mentor to fellow faculty and has engaged in various administrative roles, contributing to the strategic development of the department and the university.
Xiao holds a bachelor’s degree from Peking University and both an M.A. and Ph.D. from Harvard University.
