Tom LaRocca

Tom LaRocca joined the department of Health and Exercise Science at CSU in 2019. His background is in molecular biology and physiology, but he is particularly interested in translational research (using laboratory science to develop practical applications or treatments that can help people). As a graduate student, he studied cellular changes that occur in the heart and arteries as we age, and as a postdoctoral fellow, he focused on the molecular biology of neuro-degenerative diseases like ALS and Alzheimer’s. As a result of these experiences, he became very interested in understanding the biology of health span, the period of life during which we are healthy and productive, and in research on biology-based ways to increase health span. Tom is also a former high school chemistry teacher and college instructor, so he enjoys bringing his interests into the classroom.