Zachary Waldrip

Zachary Waldrip, Ph.D. serves as an Instructor in the Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Research at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). His academic appointment falls within the College of Medicine, where he conducts research focused on developing novel therapeutic approaches for gastrointestinal diseases.

Dr. Waldrip's research program centers on the development of modified probiotic organisms to address enteric diseases caused by toxic microorganisms such as E. coli and C. difficile. His laboratory investigates how beneficial gut microbes can be safely engineered to express proteins like antibodies capable of neutralizing harmful pathogens or their toxins. This research has particular relevance for vulnerable populations including children and the elderly, for whom these infections can be especially dangerous or fatal. His laboratory employs various techniques including cell culture, flow cytometry, molecular cloning, and biochemical and proteomic assays to advance this work.

Dr. Waldrip's innovative approach aims to develop cost-effective, shelf-stable probiotic treatments for enteric diseases that currently lack adequate therapeutic options. His work bridges microbiology, immunology, and translational medicine with potential applications in pediatric care.