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College of Science and Mathematics

Joseph Ross

Professor

Biology | 559.278.4074 | Office: Science 326

jross@csufresno.edu

Education

B.A., Biochemistry, University of Oregon
Ph.D., Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Washington

Courses Taught

  • BIOL 102 Genetics
  • BIOL 104 Genetics and Cell Biology Lab
  • BIOL 224 Evolutionary Developmental Biology
  • BIOL 273 Applied Bioethics
Dr. Ross' teaching approach involves leveraging technology to provide students with a customized and active learning environment. He is an Apple Distinguished Educator and was recognized with the Fresno State Provost's Award for Innovation. He regularly leads efforts to train his peers in the effective use of technology in the classroom.

Dr. Ross' interest in biology research involves training students in core concepts in evolution, genetics, and development. With the support of state funding and federal grants from the National Institutes of Health, his research team has published student-authored research that focuses on understanding how genetic differences between individuals (mutations) can cause their offspring to be less healthy. The research team also works to understand how the transmission of mitochondria (the organelle that provides chemical energy to cells) is regulated at fertilization.

As the Virginia Stammer Eaton Chair of Genetics and Molecular Biology, a recent area of emphasis in teaching and in student professional development involves improving the community's capacity to properly interpret and take action on information obtained through genetic testing, including ancestry tests. The San Joaquin Valley will benefit from having more of this expertise, which is why Dr. Ross has begun teaching a course in Human Genetics and is working with local Genetic Counselors to develop more resources to support students who wish to enter this relatively new and very important health profession.

Learn more at rossbiology.com
  • Transmission and molecular genetics
  • Evolutionary and developmental biology
  • Genomics and bioinformatics
  • Caenorhabditis nematodes
  • Speciation processes
  • Genetic incompatibilities
  • Instruction in the responsible and ethical conduct of research