Researcher Spotlight: Tracie Graham

Tracie Graham
Associate Director, Research Projects – Pulmonary

What is your professional background?
I began my research career as an undergraduate work-study student here at Emory in 1992. After graduation, I went on to work and receive my MPH at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I returned to Emory in 2001, and have worked in research coordination and management, from grant submissions to IRB close out, with various studies in the School of Medicine, School of Public Health, and School of Nursing. In August 2020, I was offered the opportunity to manage Emory’s employee COVID-19 contact tracing program in Central HR until the program ended in the summer of 2022. I then returned to the School of Medicine as the Associate Director of Research Projects for the RADx program at Emory.

In what division do you work, and who is your mentor?
I work in the Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine. Dr. Regina Werum is my long-time friend and mentor.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important?
I would like to diverge a bit from the question and talk about why what I do is important. Experienced research coordination and management are important to ensuring the ethical conduct of study protocols. Retaining trained research staff improves the quality and efficiency of data collection and research project implementation. Investment in professional research staff supports Emory in attaining the vision of research excellence as expressed in the 2036 Campaign.

What do you like most about Emory?
The many opportunities to work on diverse projects across different departments, schools, and continents.

What is your favorite movie or TV show?
My favorite TV shows are The Neighborhood and Abbott Elementary.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I am currently the chair of my family’s Historical Committee. In my spare time, I like to research my paternal lineage.

What is a fun fact about you?
My favorite color is purple.