David Grazian

David Grazian is a Professor of Sociology and Communication at the University of Pennsylvania, serving as Faculty Director of the Urban Studies Program. He holds a B.A. from Rutgers University (1994) and a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago (2000). His research focuses on urban commercial entertainment, cultural sociology, and ethnographic methods, with particular attention to nightlife, blues clubs, and zoo exhibitions. He has authored four books, including Blue Chicago, On the Make, and American Zoo, and is currently writing a book on nonstandard urban workspaces in the new economy. His work bridges urban studies, cultural theory, and qualitative research, emphasizing how cultural practices shape and are shaped by urban environments.

• Education: B.A., Rutgers University (1994); Ph.D., University of Chicago (2000)
• Roles: Faculty Director of Urban Studies Program

Research interests include urban nightlife economies, authenticity in cultural production, gender socialization in zoos, and the sociology of workspaces in the new economy. His ethnographic studies often explore how urban spaces mediate social interactions and cultural values. Recent work examines coworking spaces and nonstandard work environments, reflecting his focus on urban sociology and neoliberalism's impact on labor.

His publications span academic journals like American Journal of Cultural Sociology and books that blend theoretical insights with vivid ethnographic detail. While no specific awards are listed, his contributions to cultural and urban sociology are widely recognized through his extensive publication record and academic leadership roles.

Grants and Advising: No specific grants or advisees are detailed in the provided texts. However, his role as Faculty Director of the Urban Studies Program suggests involvement in programmatic advising and interdisciplinary initiatives.

Labs/Teams: Engaged with the Urban Studies Program at UPenn, fostering collaborative research on urban sociology and cultural dynamics.