Introduction
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Hi, I'm Joyce. I am a philosopher of the sciences with a background in scientific practice. I've worked on a marine reserve, in a gene expression lab, and behind the scenes at a natural history museum. I'm currently an Assistant Professor in the Philosophy Department at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan.




Background Education
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I have a BA in the Philosophy of Life Science from the University of California, San Diego (UCSD); an MA with honors in Philosophy from San Diego State University (SDSU); and a PhD in Philosophy and Science Studies from (again) the University of California, San Diego.




Areas of Expertise
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I specialize in the philosophies of biology, chemistry, medicine, and paleontology. I'm also interested in certain issues at the intersection of science, policy, and values—issues like climate change, funding structures, and inductive risk. So I have done some philosophical work in biomedical ethics, environmental ethics, and research ethics.




Graduate Study
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My doctoral work at UCSD focused on the individuation and classification of complex biological and chemical kinds. The title of my dissertation was "Biochemical Kinds and Selective Naturalism." My master's thesis at SDSU was titled "Biological Individuality and the Unit of Selection."




Public Philosophy
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You can see me in action during an episode of The Brain Scoop called "The First Brachiosaurus." Or you can read some of my public writing at the philosophy of paleontology blog Extinct. Thanks for visiting, and please feel free to explore the site. Also, don't hesitate to contact me with any queries that you might have (details below).




Contact Information
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I can be reached via email addressed to jhavstadAToaklandDOTedu. Physical mail can be sent to Prof. JC Havstad, Philosophy Department, Oakland University, 146 Library Drive, Rochester MI 48309-4479. My office is on the 6th floor of the Math and Science Center.