We demonstrate the utilization of various transition metals in a biologically derived, nanometer-scale patterning process. This process created large arrays of nanometer-scale dots (nanodot arrays) with several of these metals. The correlation between nanodot array formation and the interaction energies between metal atoms, other metals atoms, and the surface of the sample was explored. The behavior of the metal films was then investigated with the aid of a Monte Carlo solid-on-solid simulation. ©1998 American Institute of Physics.