John Ringo
Professor of Biology
School of Biology and Ecology

John came to the University of Maine from the University of California, Davis 34 years ago.  Upon his arrival, his research with the redoubtable insect model, Drosophila, initially focused on the genetics and evolution of behavior, which contributed to his teaching.  But since his early days at the University, John’s work has branched out widely to include circadian and ultradian rhythms, fly mating song, endocrine control of mating and cardiac physiology, and most recently, fly field biology and resistance to pesticides. As an accomplished statistician, he taught biometry, and also has helped his colleagues and graduate students solve numerous numerical conundrums. His expertise earned him stints as associate editor of Behavior Genetics and Evolution, and he is currently serving his 26th year on the editorial board of Behavior Genetics.  John’s recently written textbook on genetics has already been translated into 3 foreign languages.

In retirement, John plans to continue work on his favorite research subject, the fly. After spending many summers in Israel, he will be moving there permanently, setting up his own lab at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem where he will be able to focus on several collaborative projects with scientists there.

John’s reputation within the campus community extends beyond his scientific expertise, to include his knowledge of and appreciation for wines and fine food.  But perhaps he is best known as an avid and relentless runner.  He is frequently seen out on the paths in all weather, pounding the pavement.  Since an earlier respectable finish in a marathon he has not slowed much in these later days.   Keep on trucking and best wishes in retirement, John.