The International Palaeontological Association (IPA) mourns the passing of Dr. Rosalie F. Maddocks, who served with distinction as Secretary-General of the Association from 2002 to 2010.
Dr. Maddocks was a highly respected palaeontologist whose career spanned more than six decades. She received her Master’s and PhD degrees in geology from the University of Kansas in 1962 and 1965, respectively, and in 1967 joined the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Houston, where she remained an active member of the academic community for nearly 60 years.
A dedicated educator, Dr. Maddocks taught generations of students in paleobiology, micropaleontology, oceanography, and historical geology. Her commitment to teaching was matched by her contributions to research, particularly in the study of Ostracoda and other microfossils, through which she advanced understanding of marine environments and Earth history. Over the course of her career, she authored more than 70 scientific publications, reflecting both the depth and longevity of her scholarly impact.
Within the IPA, Dr. Maddocks played a central role during her tenure as Secretary-General. She provided steady leadership, strengthened international collaboration, and supported the development of the global palaeontological community during a period of important growth for the Association. Her professionalism, dedication, and collegial spirit left a lasting impression on colleagues worldwide.
Dr. Maddocks will be remembered not only for her scientific achievements, but also for her generosity, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of palaeontology.
We extend our deepest condolences to her family, colleagues, and students.
An obituary with further details on her life and career can be accessed here:
https://www.uh.edu/nsm/news-events/stories/2026/0421-remembering-rosalie-maddocks.php
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