Joseph J Pesek

Joseph J. Pesek is a Professor of Chemistry at San José State University (SJSU) within the College of Science. He has held roles including Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Research (2000–2003) and Chair of the Chemistry Department (1988–1996). His academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from UCLA (1970) and postdoctoral research at UCLA (1970–1971). Prof. Pesek’s research focuses on chromatographic separation media, particularly stationary phases for High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Open Tubular Capillary Electrochromatography (OTCEC). Key innovations include hydrosilation-based surface modifications and etched capillary columns for bioanalytical applications.

His collaborative work extends to institutions like Monash University (Australia), Aix-Marseille University (France), and Ecole Polytechnique (Paris). He has secured significant funding, including NSF grants (e.g., $750K SJSU/IBM GOALI Program) and NIH support. With 172+ publications and 75+ advised graduate students, his contributions span material science, analytical chemistry, and separation science. He serves as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Separation Science and mentors through NIH’s MBRS program. The W.M. Keck Facility for Chemical Research at SJSU supports his research endeavors.

Notable grants include the W.M. Keck Foundation’s $500K equipment grant (2000–2002) and NIH’s $220,921 evaluation of microseparation techniques (2000–2004). His work emphasizes practical applications in pharmaceutical and biochemical analyses.