Researcher Spotlight: Zack Jarrell

What is your professional background?
I received my PhD (avian physiology), MAT (science education) and BSA (biological sciences) all from the University of Georgia. Ever since, I’ve been working as a postdoc at Emory training in redox biology and toxicology. Outside of the lab, I have also worked as a science teacher and as a research instrument automation specialist.

In what division do you work, and who is your mentor?
I work in the Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine under the mentorship of Drs. Dean Jones and Young-Mi Go.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important?
Currently, I am studying a class of metal chelating peptides known as phytochelatins and their impact on metal toxicity. These peptides are present in nearly all plant-based foods, and they interact with heavy metals in our diet. Better understanding of how our bodies digest these chelating peptides informs how the composition of our diets might impact not only what heavy metals we are exposed to but also how we interact with those heavy metals post-exposure.

What do you like most about Emory?
There are just tons of opportunities to develop as a scientist at Emory.

What is your favorite movie or TV show?
I have lost count of how many times I have watched the entire series of “Detectorists.”

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love to experiment with new recipes in the kitchen, hike/birdwatch, and do crafts and woodworking. I also make random inventions at home.

What is a fun fact about you?
I’m a sucker for food-related dares.