David E. Stec

David E. Stec is a Professor and Director at the University of Mississippi Medical Center's School of Medicine, Department of Physiology and Biophysics. His academic career spans over two decades with progressive appointments from Assistant Professor (2001-2009) to Associate Professor (2009-2017) and currently Professor (2017-present), culminating in his recent appointment as Director of the School of Medicine (2023).

Dr. Stec earned his BS in Biology from the University of Scranton (1991), PhD in Physiology from the Medical College of Wisconsin (1996), and completed his Molecular Genetics training at the University of Iowa (2000). His research focuses on heme oxygenase, bilirubin metabolism, and their roles in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. He has published extensively on bilirubin's signaling functions, particularly its protective effects against obesity, hypertension, and fatty liver disease.

His publication analysis reveals a strong focus on bilirubin as a metabolic signaling molecule, with recent works examining its therapeutic potential for obesity, fatty liver disease, and cardiovascular complications. The research demonstrates how bilirubin and heme oxygenase pathways regulate lipid metabolism, inflammation, and mitochondrial function in metabolic diseases.

• Platinum Level for the Excellence in Research Award, University of Mississippi Medical Center (2023)
• Intellectual Property Recognition Award, University of Mississippi Medical Center (2019)
• Peter Hosick-Postdoctoral Fellow Publication Award (2014)
• Caroline tum Suden/Francis Hellebrandt Professional Opportunity Award (2013, 2007)
• Gold Level for the Excellence in Research Award (2009)

Dr. Stec has mentored numerous students and postdoctoral fellows while securing substantial NIH funding for projects including 'Novel Liver Signaling Pathways Controlling Adiposity' and 'Integrative role of Bilirubin on Obesity.' His laboratory investigates the molecular mechanisms connecting heme oxygenase, bilirubin, and metabolic diseases, with particular emphasis on developing novel therapeutics for obesity-related complications.