Joseph Gyekis

Joseph Gyekis is a Teaching Professor of Biobehavioral Health at The Pennsylvania State University's College of Health and Human Development. He earned his Ph.D. in Biobehavioral Health from Penn State in 2011. His research focuses on understanding how biopsychosocial determinants of health can inform clinical and health promotion practices, with a particular interest in drug consumption mechanisms, genetic influences, and work-life balance. He has contributed to studies on nicotine intake in mice, BDNF gene analysis, and the effects of environmental exposures like bisphenol A. His work spans genetics, toxicology, and behavioral science, leveraging mouse models and community science approaches.

Key research areas include sensory aspects of drug consumption, epigenetic factors in behavior, and developmental toxicology. Dr. Gyekis has published over 15 peer-reviewed articles, including studies on mouse strain-specific responses to nicotine, the genetic basis of mortality, and ecological observations of avian migration patterns. While no formal awards are listed, his work reflects sustained contributions to biobehavioral health research and education. He is actively involved in teaching undergraduate courses and advising on research methodologies.