معرفی
Joshua B. Gross is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Cincinnati, where he has been conducting research since 2010. His work focuses on evolutionary biology, particularly using the Mexican cavefish (Astyanax mexicanus) as a model system to study adaptation to extreme environments.
Dr. Gross received his academic training at prestigious institutions:
- Ph.D. in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology from Harvard University (2005)
- M.S. with Distinction in Biological Sciences from University of Denver (2001)
- B.A. in Psychology from Miami University (1995)
Dr. Gross's research explores the genetic and developmental basis of evolutionary changes, with a focus on how organisms adapt to extreme environments. His primary model system is the Mexican cavefish (Astyanax mexicanus), which exists in both surface-dwelling (with eyes and pigmentation) and cave-dwelling (blind and depigmented) forms. His work integrates quantitative genetics, transcriptomics, and phenotypic analysis to understand the genetic changes underlying cave adaptation, including both regressive traits (like eye loss) and constructive traits (like enhanced taste systems).
Analysis of Dr. Gross's recent publications reveals a strong focus on sensory adaptation and craniofacial evolution in cavefish. His work has increasingly incorporated genomic and transcriptomic approaches to understand how cavefish adapt to low-oxygen environments, changes in sensory systems (particularly taste and lateral line), and craniofacial modifications. There's a clear trajectory toward understanding the integration between different biological systems, such as how sensory neuromasts influence skeletal development.
Dr. Gross has received several notable awards and recognitions:
- National Academies Education Fellow in the Life Sciences (2014-2015)
- Young Investigator Winner, Sigma Xi, University of Cincinnati Chapter (2016)
- Honorable Mention, Excellence in Doctoral Mentoring Award
- Nominated for 2018 Dean's Award for Innovative Instruction
- Young Anatomist's Publication Award from the American Association of Anatomists (2004)
As a principal investigator, Dr. Gross has secured substantial funding from the National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health, including multiple R01 grants from NIH and major awards from NSF. His current projects include "The developmental basis for sensory-skeletal integration: The osteo-inductive role of neuromasts" (NSF IOS-2205928, 2022-2026) and "The constructive evolution of gustation: Molecular, organismal and environmental attributes of taste tuning" (NSF DEB-2343857, 2024-2028). He has mentored numerous undergraduate and graduate students through research projects and has been recognized for his teaching excellence, particularly in Human Genetics.
Dr. Gross leads a research laboratory focused on evolutionary and developmental biology at the University of Cincinnati. His team employs a multidisciplinary approach combining field work in Mexican caves, laboratory experiments, genomic analysis, and developmental studies. He has organized international scientific meetings, including the Astyanax International Meeting, fostering collaboration among researchers studying cave-adapted organisms worldwide.
