Jonathan Adams, 30 Years

Tell us about your career at Emory.

Jonathan is a research protocol analyst for the Office of Research Compliance and Regulatory Affairs (RCRA).

I began my career at Emory as a lead research specialist in the Winship Cancer Center, which at the time was just a single floor in Clinic B rather than the standalone building it is today, where I worked on SIV research. From there, I moved to the 7th floor of the Woodruff Memorial Building, supporting a lab focused on Angiotensinogen. When that lab relocated to California, I transitioned to a lab on the first floor studying bone formation and resorption. Three and a half years ago, I moved into my current role with the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) office, where I assist with laboratory inspections.

What are some of your favorite memories of your time at Emory?

Many of my favorite memories revolve around the people I’ve worked with; friends and colleagues I’ve met and collaborated with over the years. A standout moment was attending a conference in Seattle, which was both professionally enriching and personally memorable. Another highlight was a celebration day with the lab on the 7th floor of Woodruff, when the primary investigator rented a boat and we spent the day together on Lake Lanier.

What are some of the most significant changes you have witnessed over the course of your career?

I’ve seen tremendous growth across Emory’s campus. When I started, the Student Center, post office, and bookstore were all housed in the Alumni Memorial University Center (AMUC) building. Since then, I've witnessed the construction of Whitehead, Health Sciences Research Buildings I and II, the Winship Cancer Center, the Campus Life Center, and several dorms, as well as the development of Emory Point. Means Drive was converted into a turnaround. The Emory Primate Center was expanded, and Cox Hall has gone through multiple renovations. When I began, it had a Chick-fil-A, Burger King, and Pizza Hut inside. Emory Village has also seen many changes in its restaurants and businesses over the years.

Is there anything you miss from "back in the day"?

I miss how Staff Fest used to be in earlier years, especially when there were game booths where you could win fun and unique prizes. It brought a special energy and a sense of community to the event.

What do you hope for the future of Emory?

I hope that Emory’s research environment continues to grow and thrive, even in the face of the significant budget cuts implemented this year. Supporting research is vital to maintaining Emory’s impact and innovation in science and medicine.