Researcher Spotlight: Jacob Sherman

Jacob Sherman
Lead Research Specialist – Infectious Diseases

What is your professional background?
I graduated from the University of St Andrews in 2020 with a Bachelor’s in Molecular Biology. Since September 2020, I have worked as a Research Specialist in Dr. Erin Scherer’s group at the Hope Clinic, becoming a Lead Research Specialist in 2022. In August, I will be starting the Microbiology and Molecular Genetics PhD program at Emory to continue my research career.

Which division do you work in? Who is your mentor? 
I work in the Division of Infectious Diseases under the mentorship of Dr. Erin Scherer.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important? 
I perform assays in the lab to support clinical trials, including for a Hepatitis E vaccine and a Shigella sonnei vaccine. Additionally, I support Dr. Scherer’s research projects with laboratory assays, including a project investigating the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 in immunocompromised hosts and a project aiming to understand how the glycosylation patterns on antibodies elicited during COVID-19 might influence the severity of inflammation during disease.

What do you like most about Emory? 
I like the friendly and collaborative atmosphere at Emory, with people generally being happy to share expertise, advice, and ideas.

What is your favorite movie or TV show? 
My favorite movie is currently Everything, Everywhere, All at Once.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy reading, video games, and spending too much time at thrift stores.

What is a fun fact about you? 
I used to perform as a drag queen.