Dr. Joseph A. Ross, Ph.D.

Introduction

As an evolutionary geneticist (my CV...), I am intrigued by the diversity evident in the world around us. My research interests generally involve identifying changes in DNA sequence and understanding what forces promote the maintenance of those novel sequence variants. My recent work (my publications...) using the nematode Caenorhabditis briggsae has focused on understanding the genetic and molecular basis for a decrease in fitness and delayed development evident in certain inter-strain hybrids (my research...). This research program relates particularly to the formation of species, as I explain in this brief YouTube video.

The Ross Lab in 2025
L-R: Claire Irasusta, Julissa Topete Sanchez, Manuel Iraheta, Srishti Kamboj, Anaisa Hernandez, Kelly Galicia Estrada, Joseph Ross, Alyssa Stone, Emilie Nguyen, Karla Reyes Barajas, Sierra Cantu Gutierrez, Liliana Huerta Mora

Aside from having an intellectual inclination toward evolutionary genetics and genomics, I'm also passionate about teaching and mentoring, with particular interests in ensuring that my trainees hone "core" and "ancillary" scientific skills, such as critical thinking & scientific methodology, various forms of written and oral communication, and research ethics. I am always happy to speak to motivated individuals who are interested in research training in molecular biology and genetics in my laboratory (My contact information...)

If you would like to inquire about the possibility of joining the Ross Lab as an undergraduate or as a Masters student (in Biotechnology or Biology), then please send at least the following materials to Dr. Ross:

Your resume or C.V., including a list of at least three references
Digital (unofficial is fine) versions of all transcripts from higher education institutions
A brief written statement explaining what aspect(s) of the Ross Lab research program are most intellectually appealing to you
A brief written description of what you currently think you would like to do professionally after you receive your degree and how you expect that working in a research lab will help you achieve that goal (with particular attention on what experiences and/or skills you hope to obtain)
A scientific writing sample, such as a term paper or lab report written for a biology or other science course
A brief statement describing
- Which semester you intend to graduate
- How much time, in terms of hours per week, you think you could reasonably dedicate to a research project
- Other obligations you have that demand some of your time each week (e.g. family care, commuting, job)