2010 STARS Hall of Fame

Joe DeRisi, PhD.

Biomedical Scientist & Global Health Leader
Charles Peck ES | Arcade Fundamental MS | Del Campo HS

Dr. Joe DeRisi is a trailblazing biochemist and global leader in infectious disease research. A proud Del Campo High School graduate, Joe now serves as a professor and vice chair of Biochemistry and Biophysics at UC San Francisco, and is a Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigator.

Renowned for identifying the virus behind SARS and for advancing DNA microarray technology, Joe’s work has shaped how the world responds to emerging diseases. His lab continues to develop tools to track and combat pathogens—including malaria, which still claims hundreds of thousands of lives annually.

A former Searle Scholar, Packard Fellow, and recipient of the MacArthur “Genius” Fellowship, Joe blends rigorous science with bold innovation. He is widely recognized for making research accessible and impactful, always working to improve global health and save lives.

A summary of Joe’s work and links to his recent publications is accessible from his web page at derisilab.ucsf.edu.