Staff
Samuel Stupp provides scientific leadership to promote the Simpson Querrey Institute's (SQI) mission. He facilitates interdisciplinary research and creates opportunities for collaboration within Northwestern and extending to the national and international arenas. He generates resources and guides development of the research environment and infrastructure necessary for the Institute's success.Erin Hsu works on strategic initiatives and new programs designed to foster collaborations between SQI members, Feinberg School of Medicine faculty based in Chicago, and other faculty within the McCormick School of Engineering and the Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences based in Evanston.
Kathy Burgess directs administrative operations and implements strategic initiatives at SQI and its affiliated centers. She serves as liaison to Institute members, University units, oversees regulatory compliance and reporting requirements, and assists in grant seeking. She manages SQI's collaborative partnerships, the Catalyst Award program, and domestic and international research exchange programs. She also directs SQI's communications, marketing and outreach initiatives.Liam Palmer provides technical leadership and serves as the scientific liaison for the team. He directs the implementation of strategic actions to ensure alignment with the Institute's scientific objectives. He also coordinates scientific highlights and technical reporting requirements.Mark Karver manages the SQI Peptide Synthesis Core Facility. He provides peptide synthesis, purification, and mass spectrometry-based services for researchers at Northwestern and external clients in the academic community, and provides training and consultation on related technical matters.Alexandra Kolot manages the Analytical bioNanoTechnology Equipment Core (ANTEC) and maintains all laboratory facilities at SQI. She works with investigators, research personnel, staff, and vendors to solve operating problems and improve technical facilities. She also oversees installation and maintenance of laboratory equipment and provides training for new users of ANTEC and the SQI laboratories.Daniel Allar coordinates a wide variety of writing, editing, and fact-checking assignments at SQI and produces original content for our websites and social media. He also coordinates special events and implements the Institute’s overall communications strategy.Suvendu Biswas provides custom peptide synthesis, HPLC purification, and mass spectrometry-based services for the Peptide Synthesis Core Facility. In addition, he provides user training, technical assistance, consultation, and project planning for peptide-related technical matters.Matt Irwin manages SQI’s administrative operations, finance, reporting, and research administration functions. He is responsible for budgets, pre- and post-award activities, payroll, research personnel appointments, visa applications, and other vital administrative activities. He works with the directors to develop programs and implement strategic initiatives within the centers.Melissa Koelling oversees administrative and operational functions of the Stupp Laboratory on the Evanston campus. She supports academic activities and facilitates Professor Stupp’s communication with students, faculty, and staff. She manages manuscript submissions and group databases, prepares reports, and processes financial transactions. She also assists in coordinating SQI events and meetings that take place in Evanston.Todd Linton provides financial support for the Institute. He processes financial transactions, including recharge billing for the Institute's core facilities, assists with grant proposals, and processes visa applications.Nick Sather serves as liaison for starting new collaborative projects on campus and abroad. He provides technical and logistical guidance to the Institute's researchers aiming to translate their research projects into the clinic. He also assists in coordinating patents and intellectual property.Mark Seniw provides 3D scientific illustration services through the Analytical bioNanoTechnology Equipment Core (ANTEC). He also assists the Institute with research-related design projects and IT support.Maura Walsh manages project plans and provides executive support for SQI’s Director and the entire leadership team. She facilitates communication with high-level internal and external contacts and coordinates meetings and itineraries for the directors and Institute guests. She also serves as the Artistic Director on special projects to enhance and promote the SQI brand.