Meet Our Researchers: Andrew Hryckowian

Name: Andrew Hryckowian

Hometown: Latrobe, Pennsylvania

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Research Overview

The goal of the Hryckowian Lab is to understand the molecular and genetic underpinnings of gut microbiome community dynamics. This work is necessary in order to build the concepts and approaches needed to cope with “problematic” microbial communities, such as those that predispose and perpetuate gastrointestinal infectious diseases. They employ in vitro and in vivo approaches (including gnotobiotic and conventional mouse models of human disease) and a variety of molecular and genetic techniques. They also work with collaborators at UW Hospitals and Clinics to reciprocally inform our work and to translate our findings into clinical practice.

What inspired you to select your field of study?

A research opportunity I had in high school which involved bacteriophage research in Graham Hatfull’s lab at the University of Pittsburgh. This was enabled by my 9th grade biology teacher (Debbie Jacobs-Sera) who invited me to participate. This opened countless doors for me and helped lead me to my current interests in bacterial pathogens and microbial communities.

What is one piece of advice you would give to students?

In the timeless words of Stanley Falkow, “DTFE.”

When you’re not in the lab, how do you spend your time?

Staying physically active – running, biking, climbing, kayaking, etc. I hope to run a lap around Lake Monona this fall.

What is the best meal you’ve ever had?

A birthday dinner at Chez Panisse in Berkeley.

You have to sing karaoke, what song do you pick?

Wild Wild Life by the Talking Heads.

Have you ever completed anything on your “bucket list”? If so, what was it?

I visited Japan. In addition to speaking at the Japanese Society for Bacteriologists meeting, my partner and I got lost in Shinjuku, immersed ourselves in Hanami, stayed in a hotel with a view of Mt. Fuji, and ate tonkotsu ramen in Fukuoka until we thought we’d explode. I added “Japan” to my bucket list again shortly after returning from this trip.

What is the last TV show that you binge-watched?

The 4400

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

Photosynthesis

The Hryckowian Lab at an outing to the Memorial Union Terrace.