Researcher Spotlight: Adam Gracz

What is your professional background? 
Before joining the faculty at Emory, I was a dedicated Tar Heel. I completed my undergrad, masters, PhD, and most of my postdoctoral training at UNC. My background is in intestinal stem cell biology and genetics. Over the last four years, I ran a small, independent research group at UNC and expanded our research into genomics, chromatin regulation, and biliary epithelial biology.

In what division do you work, and who is your mentor?
My lab is in the Division of Digestive Diseases. Shanthi Srinivasan is my primary mentor.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important?
I’ve always been interested in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine, and a lot of exciting research is starting to challenge how we think about stem cells in adult tissues. We’re learning that many different types of mature cells can function as “stem cells” following different types of injury. My lab is working to understand the fundamental genetic regulation of cellular identity, especially how cells can be “primed” to adopt an alternative identity while still carrying out their main functional role. More specifically, we work on stem cell function in the intestinal and biliary epithelium. Our work is broadly relevant to a range of gastrointestinal disorders, regenerative medicine, and cancer.

What do you like most about Emory?
The collegial and collaborative environment here was really apparent when I visited for interviews. I’m pleased that my experience ‘post-hire’ has proven these first impressions to be true – really enjoying meeting and interacting with my new colleagues.

What is your favorite movie or TV show?
This changes constantly for me – currently, I’d have to say the recent HBO update of ‘Watchmen’ and ‘Schitt’s Creek’ are my top favorites.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
A year ago, I would have said travel! I love food and cooking, so I spend a fair amount of time in the kitchen. My boyfriend recently gave me a KitchenAid mixer, so I’m working on becoming a better baker (not currently my strong suit).

What is a fun fact about you?
I was the lead singer and guitarist in a band in high school – we played a lot of local venues and recorded a short album with a sound engineer who worked with Snoop Dogg and Faith Evans.