We’re taking time over the following weeks to get to know the members of the GSA’s Early Career Scientist Committees. Join us every week to learn more about our 2019 early career scientist advocates.

Grochau-Wright

Zach Grochau-Wright

Early Career Scientist Communication Outreach Subcommittee

Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Arizona

Research Interest

In ~4 billion years of evolution, life on Earth has gone from simple, microscopic organisms to immensely complex macroscopic organisms. Understanding how complex life evolved on Earth is a fundamental goal of evolutionary biology and will help in the search for complex extraterrestrial life as well.

One mechanism that underlies the evolution of complexity is Evolutionary Transitions in Individuality (ETIs). An ETI occurs when individual organisms form a cooperative group and become so functionally integrated that natural selection starts to operate on the group level and the group transitions into a new higher-level individual. Examples of ETIs include the evolution of the genome, the evolution of eukaryotic cells, the evolution of multicellularity, and the evolution of eusocial societies. My research is focused on understanding how the genetic basis for multicellularity and multicellular-level traits, such as cellular differentiation, evolved. This work not only informs how complex life evolved on Earth but also how and why certain diseases, such as cancer, occur. In the ETI framework, cancer may be viewed as a loss of group-level (multicellular organism) control of the lower-level (cells), and the lower-level acting selfishly to the detriment of the group. Understanding how the genes to keep the lower level functioning normally evolved can also help us understand why the lower-level sometimes revolts.

Volvocine green algae are an excellent model system for studying evolution, development, and genetics. Among the many species within this group are members spanning a range of multicellular complexity from single-celled, to undifferentiated multicellularity with few to dozens of cells, to organisms with hundreds to thousands of cells and distinct specialized cell-types. I use molecular cloning, DNA sequencing, and evolutionary analysis to determine when a critical gene family, involved in controlling cell-type development, arose in this group. I also examine the function and evolution of this gene family in diverse species to study the convergent evolution of cellular differentiation seen in this clade. By studying the evolution of these algae in detail, we can gain a better understanding of how new genes, functions, and cell-types evolve and the steps life takes from simplicity to complexity. And, in turn, we can learn why cell types sometimes change in ways detrimental to the organism as well.

As a PhD-trained scientist, you have many career options. What career paths interest you the most?

My PhD training has exposed me to a wide diversity of disciplines. I’ve learned about evolution, development, and genetics through my research; geology, astronomy, and physics through pursuing a graduate minor in Astrobiology; and pedagogy and the psychology of learning through my work as an instructor and course reform teaching assistant. I’ve also gained experience teaching undergraduate students, K-12 students, and the general public about these topics through formal teaching positions and informal outreach work.

What I’ve discovered through these experiences is that I enjoy learning about science and how the world works from a variety of viewpoints and approaches. I also enjoy interacting with other scientists and teaching students and the public about science. I’d like to translate this into a career where I can continue to teach and promote science to students and the public. I’m interested in pursuing a career as faculty at a primarily undergraduate institution where I can teach and mentor future generations of scientists or as an outreach program director for a museum or non-profit institution where I can promote and teach science to the general public.

In addition to your research, how else do you want to advance the scientific enterprise?

Today, science plays a major role in our everyday lives, from the food we eat to the air we breathe. It’s imperative that the public and policy makers have an understanding of how science works. To accomplish this, the scientific enterprise must be inclusive and representative of the population so that the voices of all groups affected by science are represented. This will enable the best ideas to come to the forefront.

I’m interested in developing networks and relationships to discuss science with those who typically wouldn’t be interested, think science isn’t relevant to them, or typically don’t have access to professional expertise. To do so, I want to develop science communication and education tools to help scientists and teachers generate interest in science, teach the scientific method, and correct common misconceptions. Generating interest and appreciation for the relevance of science in as much of the public as possible will help ensure that science is supported, is considered in decisions, and is inclusive.

As a leader within the Genetics Society of America, what do you hope to accomplish?

Scientists are well trained in presenting information and arguments clearly to other scientists through research articles, conference talks, seminars, etc. But techniques that work well for engaging with other professional scientists don’t always work well with students or members of the general public. Personal stories or arguments based on deeply held values are often more persuasive than figures and data. As a member of the Communication and Outreach Subcommittee, I want to help my fellow scientists come up with fun and creative ideas to share their science with diverse audiences. I also want to generate tools to help scientists address common misunderstandings about science and key topics in their specific fields, as well as tools to help them find common ground and talking points for audiences that are resistant to established science.

Previous Leadership Experience

  • Election Science Voter Guide, Co-author, and Representative – March for Science Southern Arizona
  • Head Teaching Assistant  – University of Arizona
  • Outreach Fellow – University of Arizona
  • Organizer – Blue Marble Space Institute of Science Astrobiology Summer Academy
  • Mentor – NASA UK Astrobiology Academy

Connect with Zach Grochau-Wright on LinkedIn and Twitter.

,

Graduate student and postdoctoral leaders from the Early Career Scientist Committees of the GSA.

View all posts by Early Career Scientist Committees »

Read more in

  • Collage of 2021 Rosalind Franklin Award recipients

    Where are they now? Rosalind Franklin Young Investigator Award recipients share updates on their research

    Rosalind Franklin Young Investigator Award applications are open–make sure you submit your application or nomination of a colleague by September 30, 2024.

  • University of Minnesota researchers map genome of the last living wild horse species

    The study, published in G3: Genes|Genomes|Genetics, is part of larger conservation efforts to save Przewalski’s horse.

  • Congratulations to the Spring 2024 DeLill Nasser Awardees!

    GSA is pleased to announce the recipients of the DeLill Nasser Award for Professional Development in Genetics for Spring 2024! Given twice a year to graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, DeLill Nasser Awards support attendance at meetings and laboratory courses. The award is named in honor of DeLill Nasser, a long-time GSA supporter and National Science Foundation…

  • Carolyn Damilola headshot

    Carolyn Damilola: an NFS Rising Scientist on a lifelong quest to learn more

    Carolyn Damilola is an NFS Rising Scientist from Nigeria doing respiratory system research and paving the way for scientists from underrepresented communities through mentorship.

  • Text over a blue background image: Apply for up to $2,000 for your project from the Starter Culture Microgrant Program.

    What does a good microgrant proposal look like?

    Members of the Microgrant Review Committee share their tips for a successful proposal.

  • A blurred image of a human face is shown against a dark background.

    The first piece of the facial recognition puzzle

    New research in GENETICS gives a first peek at the molecular pathway involved in recognizing faces.

  • New Senior Editor Amy MacQueen joins GENETICS

    A new senior editor is joining GENETICS in the Genome Integrity and Transmission section. We’re excited to welcome Amy MacQueen to the editorial team.

  • Close up of an adult zebrafish with blue and white stripes in an aquarium with red lighting.

    Block party on the zebrafish sex chromosome

    Research in G3 identifies a gene regulatory block of the zebrafish genome responsible for overseeing the maternal-to-zygotic-transition.

  • Lemna Minor, the common duckweed

    Unraveling the mysteries of duckweed: epigenetic insights from Spirodela polyrhiza

    Research published in G3 offers insight into the impact of DNA methylation on clonal propagation in asexually reproducing plants.

  • Luciano Marraffini headshot

    A microbiologist’s quest to understand CRISPR in bacterial self-defense

    2024 Genetics Society of America Medal recipient Luciano Marraffini determined how CRISPR-Cas systems destroy genetic targets with precision, paving the way for gene editing technology development.

  • Elaine Ostrander headshot

    Unlocking mysteries of trait and disease heritability in dogs

    2024 Edward Novitski Prize recipient Elaine Ostrander, a pioneer of the domestic dog model, discovered numerous genes affecting dog size, morphology, behavior, and disease susceptibility—many of which have relevance in humans.

  • NSF-funded BIO-LEAPS Grant to Support Culture Change in Genetics

    GSA and collaborators Personal Genetics Education & Dialogue and Reclaiming STEM Institute launch NSF-funded BIO-LEAPS project to support culture change in genetics 

    We are thrilled to announce that the Genetics Society of America (GSA) is collaborating with the Personal Genetics Education & Dialogue (PGED) based in the Department of Genetics at Harvard Medical School, and the Reclaiming STEM Institute (RSI) on a Leading Culture Change Through Professional Societies of Biology (BIO-LEAPS) grant from the U.S. National Science…

  • Daman Saluja: Navigating Science and Policy in India

    In the Paths to Science Policy series, we talk to individuals who have a passion for science policy and are active in advocacy through their various roles and careers. The series aims to inform and guide early career scientists interested in science policy. This series is brought to you by the GSA Early Care­er Scientist…

  • Deborah Andrew headshot

    A fly geneticist’s journey into discovering rules of organ development

    2024 George W. Beadle Award recipient Deborah Andrew discovered new genes and pathways in Drosophila salivary gland organogenesis. Now, her work can help optimize cell secretion in therapeutic applications and fight malaria.

  • Małgorzata Gazda's headshot

    Małgorzata Gazda: How receiving the DeLill Nasser Award helped her land her dream job

    Have you ever experienced an event that changes the course of your life, or in this case, your career? Małgorzata (Gosia) Gazda is Assistant Professor at the University of Montreal and in 2022, she received the DeLill Nasser Award for Professional Development in Genetics, which she used to attend and present at the 2022 Population,…

  • Hongyu Zhao joins GENETICS as new Senior Editor

    A new senior editor is joining GENETICS in the Statistical Genetics and Genomics section. We’re excited to welcome Hongyu Zhao to the editorial team.

  • Julio Molina Pineda at TAGC 2024

    GSA Member Julio Molina Pineda Receives DeLill Nasser Award, Shines at TAGC 2024 

    “At any career stage, the GSA membership is an amazing investment for any genetics professional!” Julio Molina Pineda is a PhD Candidate in Cell and Molecular Biology and a Research Assistant at the University of Arkansas, and a Doctoral Academy Fellow at the Lewis Lab. In 2023, Julio was awarded the DeLill Nasser Award for…

  • Ed Grell at his dissecting microscope using ether to anesthetize his flies.

    In Memoriam: Ellsworth Herman Grell (1932–2023), a pioneer of Drosophila genome engineering and annotation

    Ellsworth (Ed) Grell blessed the Drosophila community through three enduring legacies: as a pioneer of chromosome mechanics, as a primary organizer and synthesizer of genetic knowledge in Drosophila, and as a graceful mentor to those fortunate to have known him personally. Ed grew up in rural Nebraska, completed his undergraduate studies at Iowa State, and…

  • Congratulations to the #Fungal24 Poster Award winners!

    We are pleased to announce the recipients of the GSA Poster Awards for posters presented at the 32nd Fungal Genetics Conference! Undergraduate and graduate student members of GSA were eligible for the awards, and a hard-working team of judges made the determinations. Congratulations to all! Felicia Ebot Ojong, The University of Georgia My research is focused…

  • Poster presentation tips for TAGC 2024

    You’ve been selected to present a poster at The Allied Genetics Conference 2024 in March—you’ve celebrated, made plans to attend, now what? This is an exciting opportunity to showcase your research and engage with fellow members of the genetics community, so you want to make sure you’re prepared. We wanted to offer you some tips…

  • Maximize your TAGC 2024 experience 

    A guide to all that National Harbor & DC have to offer Are you joining us for The Allied Genetics Conference 2024 in March? Make the most of your #TAGC24 experience in National Harbor! We know the science will keep you busy, but you deserve to unwind and have some fun, so we’ve curated a…

  • Early Career Leadership Spotlight: Sarah Petrosky

    We’re taking time to get to know the members of the GSA’s Early Career Scientist Committees. Join us to learn more about our early career scientist advocates. Sarah PetroskyMultimedia SubcommitteeUniversity of Pittsburgh Research Interest I am interested in understanding adaptation that has been happening recently in populations by dissecting the ways that genes underlying an adaptation…

  • TAGC 2024 Early Career Award Winners

    GSA is pleased to announce the winners of the early career awards presented at The Allied Genetics Conference 2024. These awards are specific to particular TAGC communities and recognize early career scientists’ outstanding work on their respective research organisms. The awardees will present their talks in keynote sessions at TAGC 2024.  Don’t miss the opportunity…

  • Preeminent geneticists recognized with revamped GSA Awards

    In 2022, GSA’s Board of Directors launched an audit to review the five major awards conferred by the Society. Today, we are thrilled to announce the recipients of the reimagined GSA Awards, including the new Genetics Society of America Early Career Medal. The scientists honored this year are recognized by their peers for their outstanding…

  • Fly Board funds outreach programs to spread the word about Drosophila research

    In 2020, the Fly Board voted to use part of its reserve fund to support efforts to increase trainee participation as well as equity and diversity in the Drosophila community. An awards committee decides how the money will be spent each year, and from 2020–2022, the committee posted a very broad call for applications from…

  • New members of the GSA Board of Directors: 2024–2026

    We are pleased to announce the election of four new leaders to the GSA Board of Directors: 2024 Vice President/2025 President Brenda Andrews Professor, University of Toronto It’s an honor to continue my association with the Society by serving as Vice President of the Board of Directors. I have broad knowledge of the ongoing activities…

  • The Fly Meeting is one-of-a-kind! Dros 2025 organizers share their excitement

    The 66th Annual Drosophila Research Conference promises to be a meeting rich with the latest in Drosophila research as well as opportunities to advance your career and connect with a global community of 1,400+ scientists. The organizers Todd Nystul, Michelle Bland, Leila Rieder, Amanda Crocker, and Justin Crocker are hard at work, planning a conference…

  • Early Career Leadership Spotlight: Olufemi Osonowo

    We’re taking time to get to know the members of the GSA’s Early Career Scientist Committees. Join us to learn more about our early career scientist advocates. Olufemi Adekunle OsonowoCareer Development SubcommitteeDalhousie University Research Interest Metabolomics and genomics are two distinct but complimentary approaches that offer valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms of complex traits, such…

  • Early Career Leadership Spotlight: Hector Mendoza

    We’re taking time to get to know the members of the GSA’s Early Career Scientist Committees. Join us to learn more about our early career scientist advocates. Hector MendozaCommunication and Outreach SubcommitteeUniversity of Michigan Research Interest My research goals converge around the evolution of sexual reproduction. During my doctoral program, I investigated mitochondrial inheritance, a mechanism…