Steven Gorsich

Steven Gorsich is an Associate Professor and Chairperson in the Department of Biology within the College of Science & Engineering. His research focuses on cellular stress mechanisms using the model organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae, integrating genetics, molecular biology, and microscopy.

Education:

• B.S., Eastern Kentucky University, 1993
• M.S., Eastern Kentucky University, 1996
• Ph.D., University of Utah, 2002

His research interests include stress biology, mitochondrial dynamics, oxidative stress, and the impact of fermentation inhibitors on yeast. These studies aim to understand fundamental cellular processes and engineer more robust yeast strains for biotechnological applications.

The publication record shows consistent work in yeast stress response, particularly to furfural and other fermentation inhibitors, with strong emphasis on genetic and metabolic pathways such as the pentose phosphate pathway. Research spans molecular mechanisms of cellular damage, mitochondrial morphology, and meiosis.

Scientific Awards:

• No awards listed in the provided text.

Dr. Gorsich advises graduate students, several of whom are co-authors on his publications. His lab investigates cellular stress and mitochondrial function, contributing to both basic science and applied biotechnology. He teaches a range of courses including Genetics, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Epigenetics, and Alternative Energy.

Labs & Research Teams: His lab uses budding yeast to explore oxidative stress, mitochondrial morphology, and inhibitor tolerance in fermentation processes.