Abstracts and Speaker Bios

Alice Berger, Ph.D.
Fred Hutch Cancer Center

• Talk Title: Understanding and Targeting Genetic Variation in Cancer
• Abstract: The genome of cancer cells is highly mutated, often containing structural variants, single nucleotide variants, and insertion/deletion mutations. Among this immense variation, some mutations encode targetable protein alterations while others are biomarkers of tumor vulnerabilities. Dr. Berger will discuss the genomic and functional genomic methods her lab uses to study cancer gene function and identify new opportunities for the development of new precision cancer therapies.
• Speaker Bio: Dr. Berger is an Associate Professor in the Human Biology Division at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center and the Department of Genome Sciences at the University of Washington. She is an expert in genomics and gene editing technologies for the study of lung cancer with an interest in oncogene-driven lung cancers and therapeutic target discovery. Her lab applies DNA sequencing, RNA sequencing, and CRISPR methods for understanding driver mutation function in lung cancer. She was involved in the discovery and characterization of MET exon 14 skipping and RIT1 mutations in lung adenocarcinoma and has pioneered new methods for the discovery of synthetic lethal drug targets in cancer.

Michelle Black
Director, Flow Cytometry SRL
Fred Hutch Cancer Center

• Talk Title: Synergizing Technologies: A Workshop on Integrating Technologies Across Multiple Shared Resources and Disciplines
• Abstract: As research questions grow more complex, the need to integrate data across multiple platforms—genomics, spatial biology, cytometry, and computational analysis—has become increasingly critical. This interactive workshop brings together representatives from Genomics and Bioinformatics, Experimental Histopathology, and Flow Cytometry Shared Resources to explore collaborative strategies that support multi-modal research.
  The session will begin with brief introductions from each core, highlighting their capabilities, recent innovations, and examples of cross-platform projects. Following these overviews, we will open the floor for a guided discussion focused on best practices for study design, sample coordination, data integration, and communication across cores. Participants will be encouraged to share their experiences, challenges, and ideas for improving workflows that span multiple technologies.
  This workshop aims to foster a collaborative environment where researchers and core staff can co-develop solutions that enhance data interoperability, streamline project planning, and ultimately accelerate discovery. Whether you’re new to multi-omics or looking to refine your cross-core strategies, this session offers practical insights and a platform for community-driven innovation.
• Speaker Bio: Michele is a flow cytometry expert with over 30 years of experience supporting biomedical research. As Director of Flow Cytometry Shared Resources at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, she leads a state-of-the-art core facility focused on data quality, reproducibility, and researcher training. Previously, she directed the University of Washington’s Cell Analysis Facility, building a self-sustaining center serving diverse research needs. Michele is a passionate educator and collaborator, dedicated to advancing single-cell technologies through thoughtful experimental design and strategic partnerships.

Aarya Vaikakkara Chithran
Research Scientist, Microscopy
Seattle Children’s Research Institute

• Talk Title: Beyond the Instrument: How to Manage and Master Your Core Facility Data
• Abstract: Managing the ever-increasing volume and complexity of scientific data is a major challenge for core facilities. This talk will provide a first-hand account of the data management strategies employed by a core facility, focusing on the unique challenges we face and how we overcome them. The discussion will cover the types of data handled, strategies for integrating with high-performance computing (HPC) systems, and best practices for ensuring data integrity and accessibility.
• Speaker Bio: Aarya Vaikakkara Chithran is a Research Scientist in the Microscopy and Histopathology Collaborative Laboratory (CoLab) at Seattle Children’s Research Institute (SCRI). With a Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of British Columbia, she brings extensive experience in using microscopy to answer questions across various fields, including neuroscience, epigenetics, immunology, infectious diseases, and cancer research. In her current role, she provides direct oversight for all microscopy instrumentation and leverages her scientific background to broaden her experience in leading a core and managing shared research resources.

Daphne Cooper, Ph.D.
Senior Science & Technology Advisor
10x Genomics

• Talk Title: The Next Generation of Single Cell and Spatial Genomics Technology
• Abstract: Visit us at the WACD 2025 to learn about the latest innovations in single cell and spatial biology. Take your findings from transcript to function with an optimized and automated workflow using Xenium Protein subpanels, and unlock a new world of insights with integrated gene and protein expression. See how Visium HD unlocks the spatial discovery power you need, offering single cell–scale resolution with continuous tissue coverage.
  Discover how pairing GEM-X microfluidics paired with optimized chemistry delivers, and robust single cell profiling with unmatched sensitivity. This powerful combination is now more cost-effective and accessible.
• Speaker Bio: Since joining 10x Genomics in 2018, Daphne has been a key technical resource for researchers planning their single cell & spatial experiments. As a Science & Technology Advisor, she provides expert guidance on experimental planning, optimal sample preparation, and data analysis, helping researchers address their most complex biological questions. Daphne earned her Ph.D. from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, where her studies focused on RNA degradation in response to viral infection. She then completed her postdoctoral training at the University of Nevada, Reno, where she investigated trends in circular RNA expression during development and aging.

Matt DeGiovanni
Technical Sales Manager
Parse Biosciences

• Talk Title: Enabling Cores with Scalable and High-quality Single Cell Solutions
• Abstract: Parse Biosciences’ Evercode™ technology brings the power of single cell genomics to any core facility by combining scalable experimental design with uncompromising data quality. This talk will describe how Evercode’s split-pool barcoding enables simple workflows that support thousands to millions of cells and multiple samples in a single experiment.
• Speaker Bio: Matt DeGiovanni is a Technical Sales Manager at Parse Biosciences, where he helps core facilities and research organizations implement scalable, high-quality single cell genomics solutions. He brings nearly two decades of life science sales and market-development experience, including leadership roles at Complete Genomics, 10x Genomics, NanoString Technologies, and Bio-Rad Laboratories. Matt earned his B.S. in Biology from Allegheny College and completed post-baccalaureate studies in biology and chemistry at the University of Pittsburgh.

Darrell Dinwiddie
Sr. Sequencing Specialist
Illumina, Inc.

• Talk Title: Driving the Multiomics Revolution: The latest innovations from Illumina
• Abstract: Join us to hear the latest updates on Illumina’s product portfolio and technology development pipeline. Illumina offers the tools that fit the complex needs of researchers across the genomic spectrum. From scalable single -omic to multi-omic solutions, come learn how Illumina can partner with you in advancing your genetics and genomic research. Discover our newest systems, the MiSeqi100 Series, Illumina’s new constellation mapped read technology, Illumina single-cell and NGS-based proteomics assays. Do not miss the chance to explore our fastest and simplest sequencer and the latest methods & assays in development. Topics to be discussed include Illumina Single Cell Prep, Illumina Protein Prep, Illumina Spatial Technology, Constellation Mapped Reads, and 5’-Base Sequencing.
• Speaker Bio: Darrell Dinwiddie, PhD, is a Sr. Sequencing Specialist at Illumina. Prior to joining Illumina, Dr. Dinwiddie was a faculty member in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center (UNM HSC) for 12 years, where he was an Associate Professor and the Director of Genomic Epidemiology. Preceding his time at the UNM HSC he was the Director of Lab Operations in the Center for Pediatric Genomic Medicine at Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, MO.

Shelly Fortner
Vice Chair of Finance and Administration
University of Colorado School of Medicine

• Talk Title: Alternative Funding for Capital Expenses: Leases
• Abstract: Navigate lease arrangements for capital equipment purchases.
• Speaker Bio: Shelly Fortner is the Vice Chair of Finance and Administration for the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. She has worked with the University of Colorado for nearly seventeen years in various roles, including positions with procurement, graduate programs, service center administration, research administration, and department leadership. Shelly is passionate about academic medicine and advancing the work of those who make new discoveries possible.

Keolu Fox, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
UC San Diego

• Talk Title: Earth Friendly Computation and Indigenous Data Sovereignty
• Abstract: The rapid expansion of medical artificial intelligence (AI) is generating vast amounts of
  data, leading to increased energy consumption and a growing environmental footprint. While this growth is advancing healthcare, it also presents the risk of worsening the climate crisis, which could impact global health. Here we will explore how Indigenous communities have
  historically approached technology development with a focus on sustainability and long-termresource management, in contrast to Western societies’ focus on resource extraction and maximizing profit through exponential growth.
• Speaker Bio: Keolu Fox Ph.D., Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) is an assistant professor at University of California, San Diego, affiliated with the Department of Anthropology, the Global Health Program, the Halıcıoğlu Data Science Institute, the Climate Action Lab, and the Indigenous Futures Lab. He holds a Ph.D. in Genome Sciences from the University of Washington, Seattle (2016). Dr. Fox’s multi-disciplinary research interests include genome sequencing, genome engineering, computational biology, evolutionary genetics, paleogenetics, and Indigenizing biomedical research. His primary research focuses on questions of functionalizing genomics, testing theories of natural selection by editing genes and determining the functions of mutations.

Jeanne Geskes
Senior Field Application Specialist
New England Biolabs

• Talk Title: Breaking Through Bias to Redefine Precision in Small RNA Library Prep
• Abstract: Small and micro RNAs have been identified as regulators of gene expression, rendiering them
  detection of sncRNAs is essential for using them as disease biomarkers. Next generation sequencing (NGS)
  is a powerful tool for the comprehensive detection and sequence characterization of sncRNAs. However,
  sncRNA library preparation methods often limits the accuracy and sensitivity of small RNA detection. Biases
  are often introduced in many ligation-based methods, which obscures the true small RNA composition.
  Improvements in small RNA library preparation methods are essential to evaluate their utility as clinical
  biomarkers.
  We have developed a novel ligation-based small RNA library preparation method that is characterized by
  reduced bias in addition to enhanced sensitivity and accuracy of small RNA detection. The NEBNext Low-bias small RNA Kit enables single-day library preparation using a streamlined protocol that uses bead-based size-selections and cleanups. The
  robustness of this method is demonstrated across a broad input range as well as multiple challenging
  sample types such as FFPE RNA.
• Speaker Bio: Jeanne has been a Senior Field Applications Scientist at New England Biolabs since August of 2021. She began working in the Next Generation Sequencing world in 2010, managing cores at the University of Pennsylvania and Michigan. Stepping out of academics she moved into the Field Application Scientist role at Illumina for three and a half years. She also spent many years working in Circadian Rhythms research and a transgenic core.

Isabelle Girard
Director, Research Core Facilities Program
UC Davis

• Speaker Bio: As a scientist and senior research administrator, I am deeply committed to advancing the research, teaching, and public service missions of top-tier public universities. I specialize in maximizing the impact of federal and institutional investments by strengthening shared research infrastructure, driving strategic growth, and enabling world-class discovery.

Currently, I serve as Director of the Research Core Facilities program at the University of California, Davis, where I lead campus-wide initiatives to ensure equitable access to cutting-edge technologies, streamline operations, and deliver exceptional returns on investment in research productivity. With a strong foundation in physiology and deep cross-disciplinary experience, I provide leadership in strategic planning, financial stewardship, and high-impact project management. My expertise spans research services optimization, process improvement, and innovation in administrative support models.

At both UC Davis and my previous position at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, I have spearheaded the development of comprehensive core facilities programs with robust governance and advisory frameworks. I’ve led the design and implementation of campus-wide funding strategies, collaborated closely with executive leadership, and established formal business training programs that elevate operational excellence across research cores.

Ryan Hill
Director, Field Application Scientist
Seer Bio

• Talk Title: Unlocking the Power of High-Throughput Proteomics for Biomarker Discovery
• Abstract: The advances in genomic technologies over the last 20 years have fueled an enormous leap in our understanding of biology and fundamentally has changed medicine through the creation of completely new fields and applications such as genomic medicine, prenatal testing, and cancer diagnosis. As profound as this impact has been, there are still large gaps in our understanding of the functional annotation of genes and the pathways of biological action. This gap persists because proteins are the functional components of biological pathways, and that understanding proteome in a comprehensive way has been hampered by the lack of unbiased proteomic methods capable of providing deep coverage of the proteome at scale. Here we present a fully automated nanoparticle-based sample preparation workflow, ProteographTM ONE Assay, coupled with optimized Orbitrap Exploris 480 MS and Orbitrap Astral MS methods for proteomic analysis of biofluids. The ProteographTM Product Suite in conjunction with mass spectrometry quantifies thousands of proteins from plasma, with high reproducibility, creating a unique opportunity to detect protein biomarkers in an unbiased and robust manner not previously possible. These technological advancements, enable researchers to gain biological insights at a rapid pace and together with integration of other omics technologies such as genomics usher in a new era of biomedical innovations.
• Speaker Bio: Dr. Ryan Hill obtained his PhD in Structural Biology and Biophysics in 2016 from the University of Colorado – Anschutz Medical Campus, where his research focused on pioneering new ways to quantify Extracellular Matrix proteins from tissues and biologics by mass spectrometry. He co-founded and operated Omix Technologies, a CRO focused on targeted proteomics and metabolomics workflows from 2015-2020. Dr. Hill managed the ECM Proteomics Core in the Biological Mass Spectrometry Facility at UC-Anschutz from 2016-2021 before joining Seer Bio.

Ariel Jaimovich
VP Applications
Ultima Genomics

• Talk Title: Unleashing Sequencing at Scale
• Abstract: The promise of omics to revolutionize life sciences and human health has long been constrained by the economics of sequencing. After the milestone of the $1,000 human genome in ~2015, progress plateaued—stifling innovation, limiting scale, and forcing researchers into difficult trade-offs. At Ultima Genomics, we set out to break this barrier by reimagining sequencing technology from the ground up, with a singular focus: dramatically reducing cost while driving efficiency and scalability.
  Our platform introduces several key innovations: an open wafer architecture that enables massive scalability, spin-dispense fluidics for efficient and reliable reagent delivery; best-of-breed chemistry that is fast and highly accurate; and advanced machine learning algorithms that streamline base calling and data analysis. Together, these components form the UG100 sequencing workflow—engineered not only for breakthrough performance at a fraction of the cost, but also for operational efficiency that supports projects of any size, from focused studies to population-scale genomics.
  Already, UG100 has powered multiple large-scale studies, demonstrating its potential to unlock transformative discoveries while reducing the barriers of cost, scale, and operational complexity. Looking ahead, we envision a future where sequencing is both economically and operationally unconstrained—empowering researchers to think bigger, explore deeper, and accelerate breakthroughs in biology and medicine.
• Speaker Bio: Ariel has over 20 years of R&D experience in algorithm development and computational biology, specializing in clinical-grade product development. Prior to Ultima, Ariel held several leadership positions at Guardant Health where he focused on bridging technical innovation with commercialization strategies and collaborating closely with pharma and business development teams. At Guardant Health, Ariel made significant contributions towards the technical development of products for minimal residual disease and early screening. Ariel is a prolific inventor with numerous patents and has authored over 20 scientific articles. Ariel holds a PhD in Computer Science and Computational Biology from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and was a post-doctoral fellow at Stanford University with a scholarship from the Gruss Lipper Foundation.

Sujata Jana
Staff Scientist, Spatial Biology
Fred Hutch Cancer Center

• Talk Title: Synergizing Technologies: A Workshop on Integrating Technologies Across Multiple Shared Resources and Disciplines
• Abstract: As research questions grow more complex, the need to integrate data across multiple platforms—genomics, spatial biology, cytometry, and computational analysis—has become increasingly critical. This interactive workshop brings together representatives from Genomics and Bioinformatics, Experimental Histopathology, and Flow Cytometry Shared Resources to explore collaborative strategies that support multi-modal research.
  The session will begin with brief introductions from each core, highlighting their capabilities, recent innovations, and examples of cross-platform projects. Following these overviews, we will open the floor for a guided discussion focused on best practices for study design, sample coordination, data integration, and communication across cores. Participants will be encouraged to share their experiences, challenges, and ideas for improving workflows that span multiple technologies.
  This workshop aims to foster a collaborative environment where researchers and core staff can co-develop solutions that enhance data interoperability, streamline project planning, and ultimately accelerate discovery. Whether you’re new to multi-omics or looking to refine your cross-core strategies, this session offers practical insights and a platform for community-driven innovation.
• Speaker Bio: Sujata Jana, PhD, is a staff scientist at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center specializing in RNA biology and translational oncology. Her research on mRNA translation regulation and cancer therapeutics has led to 14+ publications, a pending patent, and several grant funding, including a Horizon Award from the Department of Defense. She has led multiple collaborations in biomarker discovery and translational drug development, including partnerships with industry.

Alison Killiliea
Director Stem Cell & Cell Culture Facility
University of California Berkeley

• Talk Title: Experience with the Second Lab platform at the UC Berkeley Cell Culture Facility
• Abstract: Second Lab is a university platform created at UC Berkeley to match services and facilities with a network of external users at both regional and national scale. As one of the first users I will discuss my experience with the platform.
• Speaker Bio: Alison Killilea, Ph.D. is a Specialist at UC Berkeley where she has been the Director of 5 facilities including the Cell Culture Facility, Stem Cell Facility, Fly Food Facility, Media Prep Facility and the On-call Facility for the last 10 years. She has research projects in chelation studies and collaborations using lattice light sheet microscopy.

Aaron Larson
Director of Operations, Shared Research Resources
Seattle Children’s Research Institute

• Talk Title: Philanthropic Investment and Core Facilities
• Abstract: This presentation will cover an alternative to the S10 mechanism through the engagement of philanthropic organizations to provide funding for capital equipment. It will outline the differences and areas of emphasis to highlight that can distinguish the process from an S10 application, and achieve optimal review results.
• Speaker Bio: Aaron Larson is the Director of Operations, Shared Research Resources at Seattle Children’s Research Institute (SCRI). He has worked in the research core facility environment for 9 years, originally at Oregon Health & Science University before joining SCRI. Interests include sustainable core facility growth, resource optimization and integration of AI, as well as statistical approaches to core operations management.

Shu Liang
Field Application Specialist
QIAGEN

• Talk Title: How QIAGEN works with core
• Abstract: pending
• Speaker Bio: Shu Liang earned her Master’s in Laboratory Medicine from the University of Washington, specializing in Molecular Diagnostics. With hands-on experience in NGS and lab management at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology, she now serves as a Field Application Scientist, helping researchers drive discoveries with technology solutions.

Bria Metzger
University of Washington, Lil LabNetwork

• Talk Title: The Lil Lab Network: Linking Local Curiosity to Research Resources
• Abstract: Core facilities extend the reach of research by providing expertise and instrumentation that no single lab could maintain alone. The Lil Lab Network asks: what if we extended that same principle to neighborhoods? Lil Labs are small, community-scale science hubs designed to connect local curiosity and problem-solving with broader research infrastructures.
  Our model is simple: stewards establish Lil Labs with seed support, then link into existing scientific resources. Currently, we are piloting this model with community biology laboratories. In this model, local projects can send samples to core facilities for analysis, or arrange visits to access instrumentation and training. To support stewards, the Network provides microgrants, shared workshops, and a co-designed framework for values, biosafety, and accountability.
  This approach ensures Lil Labs are not isolated but woven into larger networks of knowledge and resources, including academic cores. By broadening who can access science, we not only expand the impact of our facilities but also cultivate new collaborations, perspectives, and use cases that strengthen the research ecosystem as a whole.
• Speaker Bio: Bria is a founding organizer with the Lil Lab Network and PhD student in Cell and Molecular Biology at the University of Washington. As a scientist, she is interested in development and regeneration — how cells specifically and robustly coordinate fate and behavior in shifting contexts. In her art, she likes to use scientific and mixed media techniques to explore these same questions of fate, identity, and connectivity.

Sam Minot, Ph.D.
Fred Hutch Cancer Center

• Talk Title: Stewarding Data Distributed by Core Facilities: Lessons Learned in the Cloud
• Abstract: Modern instrumentation generates data at ever increasing volumes, placing greater stress on the IT infrastructure used for data storage and distribution. The Fred Hutch Shared Resources has adopted Cirro Bio, a platform originally developed in-house to meet the needs of core facilities, to take advantage of cloud computing resources to deliver large and complex datasets. Working at the intersection of legacy on-prem and cloud computing has raised important issues of data stewardship, customer relationship management, and cost controls which are relevant to any core facility seeking to take advantage of this new generation of computing resources.
• Speaker Bio: Dr. Minot received his PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Pennsylvania while studying the composition of viruses in the healthy human gut using newly developed approaches in high-throughput genome sequencing. After working in industry at a startup using cloud computing for microbiome analysis services, he joined the Fred Hutch Cancer Center in 2017 as the Bioinformatics Core for the Microbiome Research Initiative. As part of Shared Resources, he helped develop the bioinformatics analysis capabilities of the Cirro Data Platform, which was subsequently spun out as an independent cloud services provider. As the Associate Director for Data Science Applications in the Bioinformatics Core, Dr. Minot works to apply novel applications delivering interactive data exploration capabilities to customers generating complex datasets at the cutting edge of biomedical research.

Claudius Mundoma
Director – Shared Research Platforms
Stanford

• Talk Title: Communicating the VALUE of Your Core
• Abstract: pending
• Speaker Bio: Dr. Claudius Mundoma is the Director of Shared Research Platforms in the Office of Vice Provost and Dean of Research at Stanford University. He leads the strategic direction and evaluation of Stanford’s shared platforms, fostering a strong community through collaboration, which is exemplified in his work to help shared facility leaders meet strategic challenges, and supporting the development of novel services. He oversees planning of future activities that elevate Stanford’s shared facilities to the next level. His deep experience, including previous leadership roles at the University of Colorado Boulder and Florida State University, informs his approach. A super facilitator and an advocate for effective stakeholder communication and collaboration, Dr. Mundoma has a proven track record of identifying unmet needs within institutions and establishing processes that foster sustainability and longevity in programs. His contributions have been pivotal to the enduring success of the facilities he has worked with, promoting a culture of research excellence. Dr. Mundoma is member of ABRF and past Executive Board Member of the Association of Biomolecular Resource Facilities (ABRF), past Editorial Board member of the Journal of Biomolecular Techniques (JBT). He is currently Board Member of the Research Resource Initiative, (RRID) where he advises on use and implementation of Persistent Identifiers for Instruments and Research Facilities.

Alex Noble
Cores Administrative Manager
Salk Institute for Biological Studies

• Talk Title: Core User Satisfaction Surveys
• Abstract: Satisfaction surveys are instrumental in evaluating both the needs and perspectives of core facility users. Alex will be discussing the necessity of having the right survey tool, building questions based on deliberate outcomes and stakeholders, gathering data in a meaningful way, and initiating change based on your findings.
• Speaker Bio: Alex Noble is the Administrative Manager of all core facilities at the Salk Institute, where she has been for over three years. She oversees all invoicing processes and administrative projects while supporting the Executive Director of Research Operations. Her background is in Finance.

Gordon Roble
AVP, Shared Resources
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

• Talk Title: Continuing the Discussion About Core Centralization vs. Decentralization
• Abstract: A panel discussion regarding advantages and disadvantages of Core Centralization vs. Decentralization
• Speaker Bio: AS AVP, Shared Resources, Gordon Roble, DVM, MBA, DACLAM, oversees 12 centralized shared resources at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center and serves as the Deputy Associate Director, Shared Resources for the Fred Hutch/University of Washington/Seattle Children’s Cancer Consortium

Naledi Saul
Director, Career and Professional Development
UC San Francisco

• Talk Title: How to have a productive disagreement: What to do if you don’t know what to say
• Abstract: When tensions arise in work relationships, it’s easy to freeze or flare up, entering a conversation too hot (leading with anger) or too cold (avoiding it altogether). In this interactive session, you’ll explore and practice practical, evidence-based strategies and language for every stage of a productive disagreement: how to prepare, open, navigate, and close conversations where disagreement is present. Drawing on proven frameworks from Crucial Conversations and Getting Past No, we’ll explore how skillful communicators turn tense moments into opportunities for problem-solving, learning, and strengthening relationships.
• Speaker Bio: Naledi Saul has 20+ years of experience teaching clinicians and scientists how to navigate their careers and professional relationships skillfully. As Director of the UCSF Office of Career and Professional Development, she leads an interdisciplinary team dedicated to designing evidence-based interventions that build the leadership skills of the next generation of biomedical professionals. She has served as PI on multiple National Science Foundation grants that trained academic and industry scientists to inclusively and effectively supervise, mentor, and build productive teams. In recognition of her work, she was selected for the UCSF Chancellor’s Award for Exceptional University Management and the Chancellor’s Award for Diversity – Advancement of Women Leaders.

Spencer Seiler
Postdoc, Founder, CEO
UC Santa Cruz, Open Culture Science, Inc.

• Talk Title: From Bench to Business: How NSF I-Corps Jumpstarts Commercial Thinking for Scientists
• Abstract: What happens when a scientist is given funding not to run experiments, but to talk to 100 people? In this talk, I share my experience as a 2025 NSF I-Corps participant, where I conducted customer discovery interviews across biotechnology, AI startups, biomanufacturing, and pharma R&D teams. These conversations reshaped how I think about reproducibility, automation, and the role of understanding your users in enabling cutting-edge research.

You’ll hear about what researchers told me about their biggest bottlenecks, how those insights led to a more user-friendly platform, and why “talking to people” is the most underrated experiment you can run. Attendees will leave with practical takeaways about entrepreneurship, funding opportunities through NSF I-Corps, and strategies to champion innovation in their own facilities.

• Speaker Bio: Dr. Spencer Seiler is the CEO and Co-Founder of Open Culture Science, Inc. and a Postdoctoral Scholar at UC Santa Cruz, where he leads research on automated microfluidics for neural tissue models. He has developed multiple generations of connected culture platforms that integrate fluidics, imaging, sensors, and high-density electrophysiology for longitudinal studies of brain organoids. Dr. Seiler was a 2025 participant in the NSF I-Corps program, conducting customer discovery to validate market need and guide commercialization strategy. He is passionate about making advanced cell culture technologies more reproducible, scalable, and accessible to researchers worldwide.

Kelly Sheff
Genomics Specialist
Agilent Technologies

• Talk Title: Genomics and Multi-Omics Solutions from Agilent – Fit for a Diversity of Applications
• Abstract: As cost pressures continue to mount for core labs across the US, it’s more important than ever to carefully pick the right combination of tools and workflows to get the job done. From target enrichment and next generation sequencing to microarrays, and from high-complexity pooled oligos at scale to sample QC and automation, Agilent’s highly diverse Omics portfolio has what you need. Regardless of research application, Agilent can provide you with molecular biology tools to help your customers advance their research programs. Agilent is the source for the answers you trust!
• Speaker Bio: Kelly Sheff is a Genomics Specialist with Agilent Technologies and has been with the company for over five years. Prior to joining Agilent, Kelly spent nearly 20 years working in molecular biology labs across academia, government and industry settings. Most recently, Kelly served as the Director of Laboratory Operations for the North Texas Genome Center at the University of Texas at Arlington.

Sean Taylor
Research Computing & AI Strategy Leader
Independent

• Talk Title: From GPUs to IOUs: Tales of Computing and Cost Recovery in the Core
• Abstract: Core facilities are increasingly confronted with the challenge of supporting researchers who generate and analyze massive, complex datasets. High-performance computing (HPC) provides the scale, speed, and flexibility required for these workloads, but maximizing its impact requires more than just technology—it also demands thoughtful strategies for access, provisioning, and sustainability.

This presentation will highlight how HPC systems such as Sasquatch are enabling breakthroughs in genomics, imaging, and AI-driven discovery, emphasizing what makes HPC uniquely suited for large-scale scientific problems and how future research platforms are likely to evolve. In addition, it will introduce the Project Association Model, a lightweight yet powerful framework for streamlining provisioning and billing in shared computing environments. By abstracting essential metadata into a simple tagging process, the model not only automates cost recovery but also generates an emergent network graph of users, labs, and grants. This graph reveals patterns of collaboration and influence across an institution, offering new opportunities for business intelligence, resource planning, and strategic growth.

• Speaker Bio: Sean David Taylor, Ph.D., is an independent scientist specializing in bioinformatics, research computing, and AI/ML in biomedical research. He previously served as Director of Bioinformatics & Scientific Computing at Seattle Children’s Research Institute, where he founded and scaled the institute’s first Bioinformatics and HPC Core. Earlier in his career, he was a Computational Biologist at Amgen and a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, following his Ph.D. in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology at Yale University. His expertise spans genomics, multi-omics, spatial biology, cloud/HPC infrastructure, and responsible AI adoption in science.

Doug Turnbull
Director, Genomics and Cell Characterization Core Facility (GC3F)
University of Oregon

• Talk Title: Strategies for Funding Large Instrument Upgrades in a Relatively Small Research Core Facility
• Abstract: The University of Oregon Genomics and Cell Characterization Core Facility (GC3F) has been a provider of Illumina sequencing services since 2008 and a PacBio service provider since 2016. Staying up to date with the latest instrumentation from these companies has been a constant challenge over the years. I will discuss my recent efforts as the core director to obtain new flagship sequencers from Illumina and PacBio when shared instrumentation grant funds were not available.

• Speaker Bio: After earning my Bachelor’s degree from the University of Puget Sound in 2001 and spending a year teaching English in rural Japan, I completed a Ph.D. in Biology at the University of Oregon in 2008. Shortly after defending my dissertation, I took what was meant to be a temporary, part-time role operating a newly acquired Illumina Genome Analyzer—just while I considered options for a postdoctoral fellowship. That “temporary” position quickly evolved into a full-time career as demand for next-generation sequencing grew and the core facility expanded.

  Over the years, our facility has steadily broadened its services, adding flow cytometry in 2014 and advanced light microscopy in 2019. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we pivoted to become a CLIA-certified qPCR testing lab, supporting the UO campus and surrounding community. We’ve since returned to our usual operations, supporting life science research for both internal and external investigators.

  Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, cycling around Eugene, and woodworking in my garage.

Rajesh Uthamanthil
AVP, Research & Innovation
Seattle Children’s Research Institute

• Talk Title: Centralized vs decentralized core facilities
• Abstract: The panel will be discussing the structure – centralized vs decentralized – of core facility programs and best structure or options to meet the goals of core facilities.
• Speaker Bio: Dr. Rajesh K. Uthamanthil currently serves as the AVP of Research & Innovation at Seattle Children’s. He also leads Shared Research Resources/Centralized core facility programs at Seattle Children’s.

Dr. Uthamanthil’s distinguished career includes a Ph.D. in Comparative Biomedical Sciences from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, an M.V.Sc. in Veterinary Surgery & Radiology, and a D.V.M. in Veterinary Medicine. He is a Diplomate of the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (ACLAM) and a licensed veterinarian. He has held leadership roles in different institutions, including M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and Fred Hutch. Prior to Joining Seattle Children’s, he was AVP of Shared Resources at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, and has contributed to numerous research projects through grants from organizations like the NIH and NCI. His work spans a wide range of topics, from developing preclinical models for cancer research and regenerative medicine to advancing imaging techniques for drug delivery. He is also a respected author and editor of books and journal articles. His diverse background and expertise in managing complex research and core facility programs make him a leading voice in the field of translational research and Shared Research Resources.

Kateryna Voitiuk
Postdoctoral Scholar, CTO
UC Santa Cruz, Open Culture Science

• Talk Title: From Bench to Business: Lessons from NSF I-Corps on Scaling Cell Culture Innovation
• Abstract: Automation is transforming the way we culture and analyze cells — but for many labs, adoption remains out of reach due to cost, complexity, and staffing barriers. In this 30-minute session, I will share insights from my NSF I-Corps customer discovery journey, where I interviewed more than 100 researchers across academia, core facilities, and industry to understand their unmet needs in cell culture, imaging, and screening workflows. I will discuss how these insights guided the development of an accessible, IoT-connected microfluidic platform for automated, reproducible cell culture and drug screening. Attendees will take away practical lessons on how core facilities can integrate scalable automation, improve reproducibility, and lower barriers for their users.
• Speaker Bio: Dr. Kateryna Voitiuk is the CTO and Co-Founder of Open Culture Science, Inc. and a Postdoctoral Scholar at UC Santa Cruz. With a background spanning computer hardware, software, and digital technology, she develops integrated platforms for laboratory automation that bring together IoT, microfluidics, imaging, and electrophysiology to study 3D brain organoid models. During her Ph.D. in Bioinformatics at UC Santa Cruz, she contributed to pending patents and multiple publications on neural interfaces, optogenetics, and fluidic devices. Dr. Voitiuk was a Koret Scholar and NIH NHGRI T32 Trainee, and a 2025 participant in the NSF I-Corps program, conducting extensive customer discovery to bridge academic innovation with commercial impact. She is passionate about building reproducible, scalable technologies that connect biological discovery with digital systems to accelerate neuroscience research worldwide.

Alexander Zevin
Director, Genomics
Fred Hutch Cancer Center

• Talk Title: Cross-Core Collaborations
• Abstract: This session will focus on the development and launch of service lines that span multiple core laboratories.
• Speaker Bio: Alexander Zevin earned his B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Colorado State University where he studied nucleosome assembly dynamics. He then earned his Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from Arizona State University where he studied microbial community composition and function in engineered microbial systems. He then completed postdoctoral training in the Department of Pharmaceutics at the University of Washington where his research focused on host-microbe interactions in the context of HIV infection and antibiotic therapeutics. He then went on to work as a Scientist at InBios International, Inc. where he led the development of a rapid point-of-care assay for detection of anthrax infection for use in bioterrorism settings. Following this, he worked at ArcherDx where he developed NGS-based companion diagnostics for targeted cancer therapeutics. He joined Fred Hutch Cancer Center as the Director of the Genomics Shared Resource in 2022.