Justin Dore is a remarkable bundle of energy. He earned his Ph.D. in Molecular and Cellular Biology at Brandeis and his path to pursuing science is a great story.

After being invited to observe his uncle’s participation in a long distance foot race, Justin was intrigued by the physiology of long-distance runners.  He leapt into the big time; training and entering triathlons. To ensure that his body was receiving the best fuel and conditioning possible, Justin began to study exercise physiology and nutrition on his own.  The intersection of biology, anatomy, biochemistry and human physiology continued to absorb his interest and led to pursuit of a Master of Science in Boulder, Colorado.  His research focus was comparative study of cardiac biochemistry in diabetic vs. nondiabetic populations.  Training in high altitude is what sets world-class runners apart and Justin used his time in Boulder to his advantage.

Degree completed, Justin returned to his native Massachusetts.  His research focus led him to work in the Diabetes Unit at Massachusetts General Hospital. After several years at MGH, Justin decided to consolidate his interests and expand his knowledge by pursuing a Ph.D. here at Brandeis.

Through it all, he’s never slacked on training and running. For those of you who have checked out his biology courses on the Summer School website, you’ll note that they’ll begin a bit late.  Justin will be participating in the historic Comrades Marathon, an international ultramarathon of 90 kilometers, in Durban, South Africa.  He’s living his dream: teaching what he loves and applying that expertise in athletic competition.