Dr. Neofotis is a cell and eco-physiologist interested in the molecular mechanisms of photosynthesis, and how they might be improved in the face of global climate change. Of particular interest to him is gaining a better understanding of the incredible features of photosynthesis and respiration in algae, so that these mechanisms can be transferred into crop plants to boost productivity.

A 4th generation Rockbridge County native and active swimmer, another area of his research is to document anthropogenic-driven changes in freshwater environments, such as the locally beloved Maury River. Also a creative writer, he combines his interest in the arts and sciences in his free time by writing stories inspired by humanity’s relationship with the natural world. In his teaching, he employs active learning approaches that connect core biological concepts to real-world scenarios related to human and ecosystem health, biotechnology, and global change.