Sam Wolff

Sam Wolff, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Genetics at the UNC School of Medicine. His research focuses on single-cell technologies to study stem cell biology, cell cycle dynamics, and the molecular mechanisms governing cell fate decisions. He utilizes CRISPR, live-cell imaging, and iterative immunofluorescence (4i) techniques to investigate pluripotency regulation in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). His work includes understanding transcriptional heterogeneity during directed differentiation of hESCs into definitive endoderm, leveraging single-cell RNA sequencing and computational tools. Dr. Wolff received a UNC Computational Medicine Program Pilot Award (2022) for collaborative research with Dr. Phil Spanheimer. His lab explores cell cycle proteins' roles in breast cancer resistance and stem cell differentiation, combining proteomic and transcriptomic data for comprehensive insights. He has published extensively in journals such as *Science*, *Molecular Systems Biology*, and *Cell Systems*. Recent mentees include Lauryn Bailey in the PRISM program.

Education and Training: While specific educational details are not explicitly stated in the provided text, his research trajectory suggests advanced training in genetics, molecular biology, and biomedical sciences. His work integrates computational approaches with wet-lab techniques, indicating interdisciplinary expertise.

Research Interests: His lab's projects include: (1) Single-cell analysis of OCT4 inheritance and its role in stem cell fate; (2) Development of the Cell Cycle Browser tool for modeling cell-cycle progression; (3) Investigation of breast cancer cell resistance to palbociclib using 4i imaging; (4) Improving directed differentiation protocols for definitive endoderm via RNA velocity analysis. These projects highlight a focus on translational research in regenerative medicine and cancer biology.

Grants and Awards: In addition to the 2022 pilot award, his research has been supported by institutional funding at UNC, as evidenced by publications and lab activities.

Labs/Teams: The Wolff Lab collaborates with the UNC Computational Medicine Program and maintains active partnerships within the Department of Genetics. They host visiting scholars and trainees through programs like PRISM and the Wake Tech Community College START Program.