UNMC’s mass spectrometry core now is under the scientific direction of Rebekah Gundry, PhD, an internationally recognized researcher in mass spectrometry, who brings a wealth of experience and knowledge.
Dr. Gundry brings a vision to modernize and expand the scope and capabilities of this shared resource to ensure efficient and reliable mass spectrometry – a service that many investigators depend on to conduct their research.
To reflect this new vision, the core facility has been renamed the UNMC Multiomics Mass Spectrometry Core Facility.
“I am excited to welcome Dr. Gundry to lead our Multiomics Mass Spectrometry Core Facility,” said Ken Bayles, PhD, UNMC’s vice chancellor for research. “Dr. Gundry’s extensive experience and knowledge promise to usher in a new era that will provide our research community with unparalleled access to cutting-edge mass spectrometry expertise and technology.”
Dr. Gundry, Stokes-Shakelford professor and chair of the UNMC Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, will continue in those roles, as well as director of the UNMC Center for Heart and Vascular Research.
As scientific director of multiomics mass spectrometry, Dr. Gundry has a vision that includes significant investments critical to bringing UNMC’s capabilities in line with the state-of-the-art sample preparation, data acquisition and data analysis methodologies. This will provide the UNMC research community with a spectrum of capabilities to analyze proteins, metabolites, lipids and glycans.
The vision includes:
- Upgrading sample preparation infrastructure and implementing new automated robotics to improve quality, reproducibility, and speed for a full range of omic workflows.
- State-of-the-art mass spectrometry instrumentation to bring novel capabilities to UNMC — including a new mass spectrometer for tissue imaging and spatial omics.
- Expanded project consultation to inform expert experimental design to align with current best practices and provide informative, actionable data for researchers.
- Outreach and education of mass spectrometry applications to the research community will include lunch n’ learns, workshops and an annual symposium.
“Dr. Gundry’s compelling vision is driving the revitalization and modernization of this shared resource,” said Tess Kuenstling, PhD, UNMC’s assistant vice chancellor for research. “Her profound expertise, strategic mindset, passion for mass spectrometry and unwavering dedication to our researchers will unquestionably enrich our UNMC scientific community.”
In addition, the UNMC Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research announced that Melinda Wojtkiewicz will take on the role of core manager. Each has more than 23 years of experience in biomedical applications of mass spectrometry.
“Melinda and I live and breathe mass spectrometry,” Dr. Gundry said. “We are excited for the opportunity to bring state-of-the-art capabilities to our colleagues across UNMC and partner institutions and strongly encourage investigators to reach out to us so we can discuss how the core can work with you to meet your research needs.
“We acknowledge the considerable task ahead. However, with the incredible institutional support to revitalize the core, we are ready for the challenge and are enthusiastic about how our capabilities will transform what is possible across many research areas and departments.”
Email Dr. Gundry or Wojtkiewicz with questions or to discuss how they can assist with research.
Congratulations, Dr. Gundry!
congratulations!!