A professor who has built his career across three continents is now calling Lubbock home—and he's already making an impact in the Department of Nutritional Sciences.
Sergej Ostojic, MD, Ph.D., FACP, joined Texas Tech University this year as a professor of nutritional sciences, bringing with him more than $10 million in secured research funding, dozens of publications in journals including The Lancet, Nature and BMJ, and an internationally recognized research program focused on human bioenergetics.
Originally from Serbia, Ostojic has held academic positions in Norway and Hungary and fellowships in Italy and France before his move to Lubbock.
"TTU offers strong support for interdisciplinary and translational research, which aligns very well with my long-term scientific goals," Ostojic said.
His research centers on how energy metabolism influences human health — particularly through compounds such as creatine and molecular hydrogen. He has led randomized controlled trials and large-scale population studies, including analyses using national datasets such as NHANES, and holds multiple patents related to creatine formulations and bioenergetic interventions in the U.S., United Kingdom, European Union and Japan.
"One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been translating fundamental research into practical applications that can positively impact human health," he said.
Ostojic also serves as Editor-in-Chief of the journal Clinical Bioenergetics and has been featured in outlets including Forbes, BBC and the Financial Times.
His transition to West Texas has gone smoothly, he said, thanks in large part to the people around him.
"The campus community has been welcoming and supportive, and I have already had the chance to engage with talented students and colleagues," Ostojic said. "The city itself has a unique character — and excellent food."
He is currently accepting graduate students and will teach NS-5330: Introduction to Nutrition Research. For prospective students, he offered this perspective on the field:
"The field of bioenergetics is still evolving, and there are many opportunities to contribute in meaningful ways," Ostojic said. "Whether your interests are clinical, research-oriented, or applied, there is a place for you to make an impact."
To learn more about Ostojic's research or inquire about graduate opportunities, contact him at sostojic@ttu.edu.