James J. Pestka

James J. Pestka is the Robert and Carol Deibel Family Endowed Professor and University Distinguished Professor at Michigan State University (MSU) in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition within the College of Agriculture & Natural Resources. He has held this position since at least 1996 (when he received a Distinguished Faculty Award) and continues active research and teaching.

Education:

• PhD, Cornell University (1979)
• BS, State University College at Buffalo (1975)

Dr. Pestka's research focuses on preventing environmental trigger-induced autoimmunity through dietary modulation. His work investigates how ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (particularly DHA) can block crystalline silica (cSiO₂)-induced lupus progression in NZBWF1 mice models, targeting ectopic lymphoid tissue formation and cytokine/chemokine pathways.

Scientific Awards:

• University Distinguished Professor (2011)
• Multiple MSU-specific honors (1978–2025)
• Professional society recognitions (1986–2018)

He teaches Advanced Food Toxicology (FSC 807), covering foodborne toxicants' metabolism, molecular targets, and regulatory frameworks. Additional affiliations include the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics and the Center for Integrative Toxicology.