About
James E. Russo is an Associate Professor of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology at Whitman College. He joined the Chemistry department in 1989 and has been instrumental in developing the interdisciplinary BBMB major program in 2002. His academic career spans teaching, research in enzymology, and public policy work.
- Ph.D. in Pharmacology & Molecular Sciences from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine (1988)
- B.A. in Chemistry from Illinois Wesleyan University (1984)
Russo's research focuses on metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), enzymology, and molecular mechanisms of hepatocellular inflammation. His lab investigates mitochondrial and ER protein expression changes in hepatocyte cell lines exposed to metabolic stressors like fructose, fatty acids, and ethanol.
He teaches courses in Biochemistry, Nutrition & Metabolism, Immunobiology, and Infectious Diseases. His pedagogical innovations include co-founding the BBMB program and serving as Health Professions Advisor from 2000-2015.
- 2022 - Lange Award for Distinguished Science Teaching
- 2022 - Pete and Hedda Reid Service to Walla Walla Award
- 2007 - George Ball Award for Outstanding Advising
- 2007 - SEWASA Award for public school nutrition policy contributions
- 2000 - Lange Award for Distinguished Science Teaching
- 1984 - NSF Graduate Fellowship
Contact: Hall of Science 336, Whitman College | Phone: 509-527-5228
