New faculty Q&A with Jeremy Kratz, MD

Jeremy Kratz, MDJeremy Kratz, MD

Assistant Professor
Hematology, Medical Oncology and Palliative Care

What is your primary professional focus in any or all of our mission areas (clinical, research, and/or medical education)?
The primary focus of my work is to improve the understanding of disease biology in primary pancreatic and hepatobiliary cancers through translational science.

What drew you to UW-Madison and the Department of Medicine?
I was drawn to the Department of Medicine from the leadership starting with the internal medicine residency program. The breadth of experiences that DOM provided its trainees played a big part in my decision to move to Madison. These opportunities were true and provided the opportunities needed to grow as a physician-scientist.

What are you most excited about during your first year with the department in this role?
I am excited to see the growth in the Center for Human Genomics and Precision Medicine! It is great to launch my laboratory in this multidisciplinary environment that really has leaders in their fields across campus dedicated to incorporating precision strategies for all disease types.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
My family lives on the near east side, so with young children, we enjoy exploring James Madison and Tenney park-- yes with ice cream!

Favorite piece of advice from a mentor or inspiring figure in your life?
My first research mentor encouraged me to develop a passion that one enjoys so much, they can not stop doing it! I can say confidently that my work in gastrointestinal oncology can provide that experience through the work in the laboratory, with clinical trials, and most importantly time with my patients.