CATALYST

In March 2024, the Museum welcomed Dr. Bridget Chalifour, a genomic scientist whose arrival doubled the size of the Health Sciences Department. She joined forces with Tiffany Nuessle, who manages the Genomics Lab. Together they’ve transformed the space from a traditional genetics lab into a dynamic hub for genomics research.  

The Genomics Lab collaborates with other museum researchers to answer DNA-based questions across a wide range of organisms — including humans, birds and amphibians, among many others. It makes the lab a dynamic space with lots of collaborations going on and frequent visitors.  

To introduce you to their work, we have sat down with Tiffany and Bridget to answer a few questions about their work: 

Q: Why the shift from genetics to genomics?  

While genetics is great for studying one or a few genes at a time, genomics allows scientists to study all of an organism’s DNA. Humans, for example, have around 20,000 genes which make up only around 2% of their DNA. The other 98% is known as “non-coding” DNA and scientists are just learning its importance. In addition, there are tiny organisms like bacteria, viruses and fungi that make a home on and in living things like people. These communities, called microbiomes, play a big role in how we stay healthy, and genomics helps us understand those relationships. 

Q: Who uses the Genomics Lab? 

Our lab supports scientists who study everything from birds and mammals to reptiles and spiders — and their microbiomes, too! Bridget works closely with colleagues to weave genomics into their research, while Tiffany performs the lab procedures with the help of a few highly trained volunteers. We love brainstorming and solving problems together and are as likely to generate laughter as new research studies on any given day. We thrive on cross-disciplinary partnerships and have plenty of exciting projects underway!  

We also enjoy mentoring future scientists. Students and recent graduates join us in the lab to learn hands-on skills. This summer, Bridget and Genna Anderegg, our assistant invertebrate collections manager, are mentoring four high school students through the Teen Science Scholar Program, where their project will merge the fields of both genomics and entomology. 

Q: What challenges do you face in your work?

Museum collections are great for research, but older DNA is tricky. Over time, DNA breaks down — especially if the specimen wasn’t stored well. We use special methods to extract DNA from delicate, decades-old samples. That’s very different from getting fresh, high-quality DNA from living animals, like some of our colleagues can. 

Q: What’s are a few surprising facts about DNA? 

It’s hard to pick just a few! But here it goes: 

Q: Is it true you’re doing human subject research again? 

Yes! Our last human subject study was in 2018, part of the popular Genetics of Taste series. This time, we’re focusing on microbes — not the people themselves! We’re exploring how the bacteria found in a person’s nose — also known as their nasal microbiome — is connected to their time spent in nature and how they feel overall. 

 Q: Can Museum visitors get involved? 

 Absolutely! We’re teaming up with Adult Programs to offer this research at our Science Spotlight event on August 26. Visitors can learn about local microbiome research happening at the Museum and institutions nearby. There will be snacks, drinks, short talks — and a chance to join our study! 

----