Justin Fay

Justin Fay is a Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Rochester. His research focuses on evolutionary genetics, particularly the genetic basis of evolutionary change and gene regulation. He leads studies on yeast domestication, preterm birth mechanisms, and transcriptional dynamics. His work combines molecular evolution models with experimental approaches to understand how genetic changes influence traits like fermentation efficiency in Saccharomyces species and labor initiation in humans.

Dr. Fay holds a PhD and has active research grants supporting projects on yeast evolution and human reproductive health. He advises PhD students and undergraduate researchers, mentoring them in experimental design and genomic analysis. His lab is located in 319 Hutchison Hall.

Key research themes include:

• Evolutionary mechanisms of gene regulation
• Genetic basis of preterm birth
• Domestication genomics of yeast
• Transcriptional dynamics in stress responses

Recent work explores links between circadian rhythms (melatonin/cortisol) and pregnancy outcomes, as well as microbial community roles in preterm birth risk. Collaborative projects involve genomic prediction models and experimental evolution systems.