معرفی
James Stafford is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Science. He holds a BSc in Medical Laboratory Sciences and a PhD in Physiology and Cell Biology from the University of Alberta, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.
His research focuses on innate immunity, particularly the molecular mechanisms of phagocytosis in teleost fish, such as the channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus). He investigates how phagocytic receptors like leukocyte immune-type receptors (LITRs) regulate immune responses, emphasizing their evolutionary adaptations in ectothermic vertebrates. His work integrates biochemical, genetic, and imaging techniques to understand receptor signaling pathways and their roles in pathogen recognition, immune cell function, and disease resistance.
Stafford teaches courses on immunology, innate immunity, animal physiology, and parasitology. He leads the Stafford Lab, which explores teleost immune systems, advanced water treatment technologies for oil sands process-affected water, and the immunotoxicology of environmental contaminants. His publications span over two decades, addressing topics from receptor-mediated phagocytosis to the environmental impact of industrial wastewater.
His research also extends to applications of nanotechnology in environmental remediation, including photocatalytic and electrocatalytic methods for treating contaminated water. Collaborative projects involve evaluating the immunotoxic effects of oil sands process-affected water using mammalian and fish cell lines.
