DOM Researcher Spotlight: Wendy Zinzow-Kramer | Senior Research Specialist – Rheumatology

What is your professional background?
I earned my PhD in Genetics and Molecular Biology here at Emory in the laboratory of Dr. Boss. After that, I did a postdoc in the department of Psychology with Donna L. Maney, PhD in her lab. There I studied the genetic basis of social behavior in white-throated sparrows. My work since then has been focused on understanding immune system responses. First in the lab of Byron Au-Yeung, PhD, and now in Matthew Woodruff’s lab.

In what division do you work, and who is your mentor or PI?
I work for Matthew Woodruff in the Lowance Center for Human Immunology.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important?
Our lab is interested in characterizing immune system composition both before and during an autoimmune response. We are using high-dimensional flow cytometry and single cell spatial transcriptomics to characterize immune cells at the single cell level. Ultimately, these data will help us to design and test therapies to treat disease. To this end, we are collaborating with the Santangelo lab that was recently awarded funding from the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) to develop cutting-edge therapies to treat cancer and autoimmune diseases. I am very excited to participate in this ground-breaking project.

What do you like most about Emory?
I have benefitted most from the opportunity to collaborate with so many talented individuals. All of my work here at Emory has greatly benefited from collaborations I have had with faculty from other departments and institutions.

What is your favorite movie or TV show?
I am looking forward to the new season of “Dr. Who” that will be airing this month.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
Twice a week I go to Fleet Feet in downtown Decatur for their run/walk group. It’s a nice opportunity to meet people, spend time outside, and get some exercise.

What is a fun fact about you?
A few years I decided to try out medium distance running. I ran my first 10 mile race at the end of October, followed by my first and second half marathons in November.