Rate My Professor Joseph Dolan

Joseph Dolan serves as Assistant Professor of Biology at Volunteer State Community College, a position he has held since 2010 within the Division of Mathematics and Science. He obtained his B.S. from The Ohio State University in 1981 and his Ph.D. from Indiana University in 1987. Before joining Volunteer State Community College, Dolan was Associate Professor and Director of the Biotechnology Program at Nashville State Community College, where he led efforts in biotechnology education and training. His academic career reflects a commitment to both teaching and advancing knowledge in biological sciences at community college institutions.

Dolan's research specializations center on molecular and cellular biology of fungi, with a focus on phospholipase D signaling pathways, dimorphic transitions, hyphal development, and virulence mechanisms in pathogens such as Candida albicans and Ustilago maydis. Key publications include "Propranolol Inhibits Hyphal Development in Candida albicans" (Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 2002), "Candida albicans PLD1 activity is required for full virulence" (Medical Mycology, 2004), "Phospholipase D1 is required for efficient mating projection formation and cell fusion in Saccharomyces cerevisiae" (FEMS Yeast Research, 2001), "Phospholipase D activity is required for dimorphic transition in Ustilago maydis" (Microbiology, 1997), and "An oleate-stimulated, phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate-dependent phospholipase D activity in Saccharomyces cerevisiae" (FEMS Yeast Research, 2010). Additional works cover sphingomyelinase activity and substrate specificities of phospholipase D in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Conducted primarily during his time at the Medical University of South Carolina and subsequent roles, these contributions have influenced understanding of fungal pathogenesis and cell signaling, amassing over 1,000 citations. Currently, Dolan teaches courses including Microbiology (BIOL 2230), Medical Laboratory Technology (MLAB 1301), and Veterinary Technology-related biology classes, preparing students for transfer to four-year programs and careers in health sciences, biotechnology, and research.