Dr. Russell Fernald

Professor

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Biography

Russell D. Fernald is the Benjamin Scott Crocker Professor Emeritus in Human Biology at Stanford University, with a research focus on understanding the mechanisms of social change and its influence on behavior and physiological processes. His work utilizes fish models to explore male reproductive strategies and social dominance, showcasing how behavior can rapidly change in response to social opportunities. Fernald's academic achievements include numerous awards for teaching excellence, such as the Cox Medal and the Dinkelspiel Prize, along with prestigious fellowships, including the NIH Fogarty Senior International Fellowship. He earned his PhD in Biophysics from the University of Pennsylvania in 1969 and a B.S. in Electrical Engineering/Physics from Swarthmore College. His research interests lie at the intersection of behavioral biology and neurobiology, particularly the neural mechanisms facilitating social ascent and the biological processes underlying selection and competition among males. Over the years, Fernald has contributed significantly to diverse academic fields and nurtured undergraduate research at Stanford.

Research Interests

Experience

Benjamin Scott Crocker Professor

— Present

Stanford University • Stanford, California

Professor in the Department of Biology focusing on human biology and interdisciplinary research.

Awards

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Bing Prize

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Cox Medal

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Dinkelspiel Prize

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NIH Fogarty Senior International Fellowship

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Javits Neuroscience Investigator Award

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Rank Prize

2004-02-01
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Elected Fellow

Courses

BIO 198 NEPR 299 NEPR 399 SYMSYS 196 BIO 198X BIO 199X

Requirements for Stanford University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:26
Reading
Required:26
Writing
Required:26
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:100
GRE General
Verbal
Required:160
Quantitative
Required:165
Analytical Writing
Required:4.5
Overall
Required:4.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor degree from an accredited institution Strong background in mathematics and programming
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

The Computer Science department emphasizes research potential. GRE General is currently optional but recommended for some tracks.