History
The establishment of the Notre Dame Genomics and Bioinformatics Core Facility (GBCF) in 2008 marked a significant milestone in Notre Dame's research landscape. Initiated as part of the Notre Dame Strategic Research Initiative (SRI), the GBCF was designed to be at the forefront of genomics research, particularly in the areas of disease ecology and global health.
In its initial phase from 2008 to 2010, the GBCF operated under the umbrella of the Eck Institute for Global Health (EIGH). During this time, it consisted of separate genomics and bioinformatics cores, each directed by Professor Michael Ferdig and Professor Scott Emrich.
However, in 2010, the GBCF underwent a significant transition, moving under the direct governance of Notre Dame Research. This restructuring saw the merging of the two cores into a cohesive and integrated facility, led by Professor Michael Pfrender. Initially, the GBCF offered a range of DNA sequencing options: Sanger with an ABI 3730xl capillary sequencer, long-read with a Roche 454 FLX sequencer, and short-read with an Illumina MiSeq System. Affymetrix and NimbleGen DNA microchips provided SNP and gene expression analysis, rounding out the GBCF's available genomics solutions.
As the years progressed, the GBCF continued to advance its capabilities and offerings. In 2017, a notable addition was made with the acquisition of an Illumina NextSeq 500 sequencing platform, representing a significant enhancement in short-read sequencing capabilities.
From 2019 to 2023, the GBCF further expanded its repertoire by incorporating cutting-edge single-cell technologies into its services. This included the acquisition of state-of-the-art equipment such as the 10X Genomics Chromium Controller, Visium CytAssist, and Xenium in-situ instrument, positioning the facility as a leader in single-cell genomics research.
To further bolster single-cell and spatial transcriptomics support, Dr. Bharat Mishra joined the GBCF in 2025 as Principal Bioinformatician and Assistant Professor of the Practice in the Department of Biological Sciences. Dr. Mishra brings deep expertise in RNA-Seq, single-cell (scRNA-Seq), and spatial transcriptomics (ST), as well as a commitment to FAIR data practices using version control, containerization, and high-performance computing. His contributions include collaborative project support, consultation, and training in biological data science, further expanding the GBCF’s analytical capabilities and reinforcing its role as a hub for high-resolution, data-intensive genomics research.
In 2025, the GBCF relocated to McCourtney Hall East, Notre Dame’s newest and premier research building. This move marks a new chapter for the facility, positioning it at the heart of a vibrant scientific community and providing expanded space and infrastructure to support the growing needs of genomic and bioinformatics research.
Guangyuan (Frank) Li joined the GBCF in 2026 as Assistant Professor of the Practice in the Department of Biological Sciences. Frank’s expertise in computational biology and translational cancer immunology, and his focus on developing algorithms and analytical pipelines has resulted in many widely-adopted software tools in the field. By merging computational innovations with a commitment to cancer biology, he hopes to accelerate therapeutic discovery and advance precision medicine.
Today, the GBCF stands as a champion of excellence in genomics and bioinformatics research, not only supporting groundbreaking research endeavors at Notre Dame but also contributing to advancements in the broader scientific community. With its continued evolution and dedication to cutting-edge research, the GBCF remains poised to shape the future of genomics and bioinformatics research for years to come.