Empowering Discoveries: The Essential Role of Core Facilities in University Research | University of Utah Health

Cores in the U’s Research Landscape

The impact of cores at the U has created a cycle where valuable data is generated that leads to important discoveries, fast-advancing changes in technology are kept up with, and collaboration is fostered, validating the cores system and its continued role in research at the U.

Summers illustrates the discovery side of the cycle fueled by cores. “We have so many instances where our cores have enabled paradigm-shifting discoveries. Our metabolomics core has been an amazing catalyst for innovation that has uncovered how changes in fat, protein, and sugar metabolism fuel diabetes, heart failure, and cancer. These remarkable findings have spawned at least six different drug discovery programs, with several of the new compounds entering clinical trials.”

Cox notes that the example of the metabolomics core under the leadership of Summers and Jared Rutter, PhD, is one of many where experts at the U have leveraged cores to generate a wealth of reliable data. Because of that excellence, the U can continue to support the acquisition of new technology.

As cores and researchers combine to generate quality research data, research technology reminds us that the tools used to generate discoveries and data are advancing in tandem. The need to keep up often outpaces the budget of individual labs. Cox suggests that this highlights the continued importance of cores at the U, as the cores system is better positioned to maintain a collection of up-to-date technology.

Beyond modern technology and quality data, cores are a catalyst for collaboration. The U has a uniquely collaborative culture among researchers that creates a wealth of multidisciplinary research opportunities. Cores are a significant part of research collaboration. With embedded directors, they are positioned to offer insights on experimentation design and connect researchers to other colleagues who could add perspective and support research efforts.

How Can Cores Help You?

The equipment, data, and resources available through cores services represent an advance in the U’s capability to empower investigators that didn’t exist a generation ago.

If you are not familiar with the services available or need a refresher, be sure to visit the cores research facilities website to learn more. Services can be accessed by filling out a work authorization form found on the website.

For those looking for added guidance, each core director is available for consultation. They have resources within the university, along with industry connections in the biotechnology community that can add to the expansive insights that can be gained through leveraging cores services.