The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine would like to welcome one of our newest faculty members, Qiang Zhu, PhD, who was appointed as Research Assistant Professor in February.

Dr.��Zhu��received his Bachelor of Medicine degree from Southwest Medical University, Sichuan, China, his MS in Biochemsitry and Molecular Biology from Sichuan University and completed his PhD in Pathobiology and Translational Science at ������ Chapel Hill.

Dr.��Zhu��first joined the ������ team in 2014 as a Graduate Research Assistant in the department, where he served from 2014-2020 before transitioning to a Postdoctoral Research Associate role. Dr.��Zhu’s research is focused on understanding heart diseases, specifically on unraveling the pathogenesis of those conditions and investigating the mechanism of mitochondria homeostasis in cardiomyocytes. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as proteomics, metabolomics, live cell imaging, super-resolution microscopy, and genetically modified mouse models, Dr. Zhu’s work delves into the molecular intricacies in underlying mitochondrial health in cardiomyocytes.

Welcome Dr. Zhu!

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The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine is pleased to announce that Dr. Siobhan O’Connor has been named the Residency Program Director, effective December 1, 2024. A valued faculty member since 2010, Dr. O’Connor has served as Director of Cytopathology since 2015 and previously led the Cytopathology Fellowship as Program Director from 2018 to 2021. Her extensive leadership experience in medical education and patient care will be instrumental in overseeing the residency program, comprised of 17 residents currently.

Dr. O’Connor earned her medical degree from ������ Chapel Hill. She then completed a residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Louisville, followed by a residency in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology at the University of Pittsburgh, where she also pursued a fellowship in Gynecologic and Breast Pathology. She then completed a Cytopathology fellowship at the University of Virginia before joining the ������ faculty.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. O’Connor on this well-deserved role!

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The WHMC’s mission centers on fostering a trainee-focused, unified community that spans disciplines to advance women’s health research and to foster new training and collaborations. The organization was conceived with the goal of bridging the gap between diverse areas of research, training, and clinical care. With support from the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, as well as the Center for Women’s Health Research at ������, the WHMC has grown significantly over the years, becoming a vital resource for trainees and faculty alike. It offers a platform for developing community partnerships, hosting educational seminars, and creating robust training programs for graduate and medical students.

Current Initiatives and Projects

The WHMC’s initiatives are designed to create awareness of the diverse research occurring at ������ related to women’s health while also facilitating collaboration and training opportunities across disciplines. Some of the primary initiatives currently being undertaken by the WHMC include:

• WHMC Hot Topic Seminar Series: This monthly seminar series brings together a diverse audience, including basic science and clinical faculty, graduate and medical students, postdoctoral fellows, and undergraduates. The seminars are curated by the WHMC Hot Topic Committee and provide opportunities for attendees to engage with cutting-edge research on women’s health.

• Journal Club Trainee Cohort: Aimed at fostering a community of trainees interested in women’s health research, the Journal Club allows participants to network, engage with faculty, and get involved in WHMC leadership while contributing to educational initiatives.

• Women’s Health Scholarly Concentration Program (WH-SCP): Launched in Fall 2024, the WH-SCP offers training for ������ medical students interested in women’s health. The inaugural cohort of 12 students is supported by faculty co-directors Drs. Marcella Willis-Gray and Asha Talati, as well as a dedicated group of student leaders.

• Graduate Certificate Program in Women’s Health and Sex Differences Research (WHSDR): This new program, set to launch in Fall 2025, will offer PhD students a multidisciplinary education focused on women’s health and sex-specific research. Graduates will gain the knowledge and mentorship needed to tackle advanced research questions in this crucial field.

• Community Engagement: The WHMC fosters community engagement through joint events, workshops, and informational sessions. Additionally, the WHMC Community Engagement team curates a monthly Women’s Health Newsletter featuring research updates, job opportunities, and interviews with WHMC members.

The WHMC Leadership and Core Committee

The WHMC’s growth from a small planning committee to a robust, 35-member Core Committee reflects its success in creating a collaborative and dynamic environment. The leadership of the WHMC is currently shared by co-chairs Cherise Glodowski, Sean Connelly, Elizabeth Thomas, and Kylie Hutchison, with faculty advisor Dr. Melinda Yates providing invaluable guidance.

The WHMC Core Committee is organized into six teams that lead key initiatives:

• Hot Topic Seminar Team: Led by Elizabeth Thomas
• Journal Club Team: Co-led by Maggie DeMonia and Sophia I. Malave
• Community Engagement Team: Co-led by Kate Aberman, Sarah Rebbeor, and Kylie Hutchison
• Women’s Health Scholarly Concentration Program Team: Co-led by Chase Binion, Sean Connelly, Cherise Glodowski, and Mia Wiegmann
• Graduate Trainee Program Development Team: Led by Kylie Hutchison
• Fundraising Team: Led by Clare Stull

The WHMC has continued to attract passionate and committed individuals who are dedicated to advancing women’s health. As it evolves, the consortium’s leadership remains focused on fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and supportive environment for all members.

Quotes and Acknowledgments

Dr. Glodowski, co-founder and co-chair of the WHMC, shared her reflections on the consortium’s growth and its impact on the field of women’s health research:

“My dream is to build a thriving community of researchers and clinicians who share a common goal of improving the health of women. Women’s health research at ������ is superb and multi-faceted but is often siloed. I feel strongly about creating a tether-point to connect the research and clinical work in this multidisciplinary field, especially for early-career trainees. We are stronger when we hear fresh perspectives and tackle big problems together. I am floored by how much the consortium has grown in the last 5 years, and am deeply proud of working with such a passionate team who roll up their sleeves and make this whole initiative possible.”

Dr. Glodowski also expressed her deep gratitude for the support and mentorship the WHMC has received since its founding. She acknowledged Dr. Russell Broaddus for his unwavering support and championing of the WHMC, the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine for�� housing the initiative, and the late Dr. Wendy Brewster for her leadership and encouragement to develop the WHMC. She also recognized Dr. Jessica Bowser and Dr. Melinda Yates, the consortium’s faculty advisors, for their guidance, as well as her brilliant co-founder, Dr. Alina Hamilton, for her vision and partnership in bringing the WHMC to life.

The Women’s Health Multidisciplinary Consortium continues to grow and evolve, creating a dynamic and supportive environment for trainees and faculty dedicated to advancing women’s health research and care. The WHMC is paving the way for groundbreaking collaborations and initiatives that will shape the future of women’s health care and research. With a growing community of passionate individuals, the consortium is poised to continue making a significant impact for years to come.

For more information, including access to the WHMC’s monthly newsletter, announcements, and details on upcoming events, visit WHMC at ������.

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Dr.��Lamont��completed her undergraduate studies in Animal Science and earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA. After completing her DVM, she started her journey at ������ as a resident in the Laboratory Animal Medicine Program. Dr.��Lamont��is interested in laboratory animal welfare, surgery, rodent medicine, and animal biocontainment.����

Welcome Dr. Lamont!��

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�������� Science Expo – April 5th, 2025

Are you passionate about science and eager to share that excitement with others? Join PBTS as a volunteer at the ������ Science Expo��on Saturday, April 5th, 2025!

Where:��Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, Chapel Hill, NC
When:��11:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Volunteers can sign up for 1 hour shifts from 10:00am to 5:00pm)

This family-friendly event is part of the North Carolina Science Festival��and offers interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and hands-on activities for all ages. Volunteers play a crucial role in creating an engaging and educational experience for attendees. We will need help running the Pathology booth that includes activities identifying organs.

More information on the event:

PBTS Sign up sheet:

NC DNA Day – April 2025

The 19th annual NC��DNA��Day is coming up in April 2025 and we have opportunities for volunteers to visit high school classrooms throughout the state!

NC DNA Day is an exciting event where scientists and students visit high schools across North Carolina to share their knowledge about genetics, genomics, and scientific careers. Ambassadors play a key role in connecting with students, sharing the latest in DNA research, and sparking interest in STEM fields.

When:��April 25, 2025 (other dates are also possible)
Where:��High schools across North Carolina

The short:

• You’ll be matched with an NC high school science teacher

• You get to visit their science classroom in late April
• Teach a hands-on, exciting lesson about genetics and��DNA (all materials provided!)
• Tell high school kids about why you love science and your research

• All teaching materials and a gas card to reimburse you for travel is included
• A science communication training workshop is included for all scientist volunteers.
• Boost your CV with valuable teaching and broader impact experience!

For more info about NC DNA Day and to sign up, go to:

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Dr. Sara Wobker has been named the Director of Anatomic Pathology, effective January 1^st 2025. Dr. Wobker, who joined the faculty in 2016, has been an integral member of both the ������ Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and the Department of Urology. She brings extensive clinical and research expertise to her new leadership role.

��Dr. Wobker has served as the Division Director of Surgical Pathology since 2023 and as the Director of Genitourinary Pathology since 2018. ��Additionally, she has led as the Associate Director of Surgical Pathology for Research for the past six years. ��She completed a cytopathology fellowship at ������ and urologic surgical pathology fellowship at Johns Hopkins University. ��The Department is delighted to have Dr. Wobker begin this role considering her broad experience as a leader in academic medicine.

��The Department also profoundly thanks Dr. Benjamin Calhoun for his leadership and contributions over the past five years. Dr. Calhoun’s stewardship as Director of Anatomic Pathology has had a lasting and positive impact on both the clinical and research missions of the Department.�� Dr. Calhoun remains in the department as Director of the Breast Pathology group.

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Katie Williams, Administrative Support Specialist��

Paul Cox, Facilities Manager

Ms. Williams and Mr. Cox were nominated based on their outstanding performance, including their dependability, devotion to duty, job knowledge and skills and cooperative attitude.

Associates of Margaret Gulley, former Administrator of the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, established the Margaret O. Gulley Award in 1990.

Associates of Nancy Nye, Associate Chair for Administration, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, established the Nancy H.Nye Award in 2013.

Pictured (left to right): Margaret L. Gulley, MD, Russell Broaddus, MD,PhD, Katie Williams, Nancy H. Nye, Paul Cox.

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She has been an ASM member and volunteer for 20 years–serving on numerous committees and held leadership roles related to clinical and public health. “I never did any of this to receive an award! I just engage in opportunities that have the potential to impact change – from diagnostics to regulations to education. It is quite special though to be recognized for something I would do without hesitation for no acknowledgment,” said Dr. Miller.In 2021, she was also awarded a Governor’s Award for Excellence, the highest honor given to a state employee for dedicated service to North Carolina and its citizens.

When asked about advice she’d give to others, Dr. Miller said “I heard this saying many years ago, ‘There is enough success out there for everyone,’ by Mel Robbins. So, while I have been honored with this award, service is something everyone can excel at!”

More about Dr, Miller:

Melissa Miller, Ph.D., D(ABMM), FAAM, FIDSA, is the James D. Folds Distinguished Professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at ������-Chapel Hill School of Medicine. She is the Director of the Clinical Microbiology and Molecular Microbiology Laboratories at ������ Medical Center. Miller received her Ph.D. in molecular biology from Princeton University and then completed the ASM CPEP Medical and Public Health Microbiology Fellowship at ������ Hospitals.

Miller has been a committed ASM member and volunteer for over 20 years. She has served on numerous committees and held leadership roles related to clinical and public health microbiology, public policy, and advocacy. She has participated in multiple Hill Days with ASM and other professional societies, written guidance documents, and liaised with federal agencies regarding research funding, clinical and public health laboratory needs, scientific education, and community education. As an AAM fellow, she served as a colloquium chair and a member of the AAM Subcommittee on Elections; she now serves as an AAM Governor. She is also an Editor for the��Journal of Clinical Microbiology. Miller received the 2021��ASM Award for Research and Leadership in Clinical Microbiology��and was a co-recipient of the 2021 ASM Special Recognition Award for leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.�� In addition to her clinical services as a clinical microbiologist, she participates in clinical and translational research and has an extensive teaching record.

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Dr. Bartels is originally from the Midwest and graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a B.S. in Molecular and Cellular Biology. She earned her medical degree from Rush Medical College in Chicago, IL. Between medical school and residency, she served as a Clinical Physician and General Medical Officer in the United States Navy with the 2^nd Marine Expeditionary Force, located in Camp Lejeune, NC, and the 1^st Marine Expeditionary Force, located in Camp Pendleton, CA. She completed her Anatomic and Clinical Pathology Residency and Breast & Gynecologic Pathology Fellowship at the University of California, San Diego. During her residency, she served as Chief Resident, participated in the Pathology Residency Program Evaluation Committee, and hosted Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) events for prospective students. Now a recent graduate, Dr. Bartels is excited to join the Tarheel team. Her research focuses on clinicopathologic correlation studies related to women’s health, with a particular emphasis on breast cancer.

Welcome Dr. Bartels!

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Dr. Hur received his BSc in Biochemistry from McGill University (Montreal, Canada) and completed his PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from University of British Columbia (Vancouver, Canada).

Dr. Hur first joined the ������ research team in 2019 ��for his postdoctoral training. Dr. Hur’s research is focused on investigating the bi-directional relationship between metabolic diseases and thrombosis/hemostasis. It has long been established that obesity is a significant risk factor for development of thromboembolic diseases; however, recent studies suggest that coagulation factors and fibrinolytic proteins reciprocally drive the development of obesity. Dr. Hur studies the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which coagulation/fibrinolytic proteins contribute and regulate metabolic processes to regulate the development of metabolic pathologies such as obesity, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, insulin resistance and hypercholesterolemia. Dr. Hur is also interested in identifying the molecular and cellular changes during obesity that promotes thrombosis.

Welcome Dr. Hur!

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