Joseph Grzywacz

Joseph Grzywacz is Associate Dean for Research and Faculty at San Jose State University's College of Health and Human Sciences. He has held prior leadership roles at Florida State University, Oklahoma State University, and Wake Forest School of Medicine, demonstrating a strong academic and administrative trajectory in public health and family science.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Child and Family Studies, University of Wisconsin-Madison (1998)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of California, Irvine, School of Social Ecology (1998–2000)
• M.S. in Human and Community Resources, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (1994)
• B.S. in Health Promotion/Wellness, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (1989)

Dr. Grzywacz’s research focuses on the intersection of work, family, and health, particularly among vulnerable populations such as immigrant families, Latino farmworkers, and low-income communities. His work emphasizes health disparities, occupational health, and the biopsychosocial impacts of labor conditions. He has published over 300 peer-reviewed articles and has been continuously funded by the National Institutes of Health since 2002.

The recent articles highlight a consistent focus on work-family dynamics, immigrant health, agricultural safety, and mental health disparities. Themes include work alienation, work-family enrichment, cultural models of parenting, and environmental exposures such as heat and pesticides. His methodological approaches include longitudinal analysis, qualitative inquiry, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Scientific Awards and Recognition:

• George Kaiser Family Foundation Endowed Professor of Family Resilience

Dr. Grzywacz has mentored dozens of students and early-career researchers, supporting them in publishing their first scientific articles and securing federal grants. He has led interdisciplinary research training programs and has been instrumental in advancing translational family science. His work is supported by sustained federal funding, indicating significant impact and scholarly leadership.

He is affiliated with the College of Health and Human Sciences at San Jose State University, where he continues to lead research initiatives and mentor faculty and students. He collaborates extensively with researchers in public health, psychology, and family science.