Joshua R. Jefferson
Assistant Professor
Department:
SHR-Medical Laboratory Science
Email:
jjefferson@umc.edu
Work Phone:
(601) 984-4925
Biography
I was born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi, where I was proudly educated through the Jackson Public School System. My academic journey led me to Jackson State University, the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), and the University of Southern Mississippi, where I cultivated a passion for science and education. I’m a devoted husband to my wife Paula and a proud father of four children who keep life exciting and full of joy.
Outside of work, I’m a lover of reptiles—especially snakes and turtles—and have a deep interest in research histology. I enjoy listening to all genres of music, watching classic films and James Bond movies, and surrounding myself with good company. I consider myself a people person who enjoys connecting with others and bringing positive energy wherever I go. Whether in the lab or out in the community, I strive to blend curiosity, compassion, and fun into everything I do.
Education
| University of Southern Mississippi, EdD, Education | 2024 |
| University of Mississippi, MS, Health Sciences | 2020 |
| Jackson State University, BS, Health Care Administration | 2017 |
Specialty Certification Licensure
| Certification, Histotechnologists | 04/2025 - 04/2025 |
Presentations
| Poster Presentation, Using Histological Stains to Identify Pythiosis in Mammals, SHRP, SHRP | 04/2025 |
Honors, Awards, and Recognition
| ASCP Leadership Institute Scholarship, American Society for Clinical Pathology | 2023 |
| Convention Travel Scholarship, National Society of Histotechnology | 2023 |
| Daniel Hale Williams Scholar, The Jackson Heart Study | 2021 |
Professional Membership and Service
| ASCP, Member | 2024 - 2025 |
| Anatomical Pathology Patient Interest Association, Member | 2022 - Present |
| National Society of Histotechnology, Member | 2022 - 2028 |
Teaching Experience
| HTL 440, SHRP, Lecture, Course Director, Histotechnology Practicum I | Annual 2024-2025 |
| HTL 445, SHRP, Lecture, Course Director, Histotechnology Practicum II | Annual 2024-2025 |
| HTL 300, SHRP, Lecture, Course Director, Introduction to Histology | Fall 2024- 2025 |
| HTL 320, SHRP, Lecture, Course Director, Histotechniques I | Spring 2023 |
| HTL 330, SHRP, Lecture, Course Director, Staining Techniques I | Spring 2023 |
| HTL 300, SHRP, Lecture, Course Director, Introduction to Histology | Fall 2023 |
| HTL 330, SHRP, Lecture, Course Director, Staining Techniques I | Spring 2022 |
| HTL 420, SHRP, Lecture, Course Director, Histotechniques II | Fall 2022 |
| HTL 430, SHRP, Lecture, Course Director, Staining Techniques II | Fall 2022 |