For this Faculty Feature, we highlighted Nicole Tolan, PhD, DABCC, Associate Professor, Pathology & Immunology in the Laboratory and Genomic Medicine Division.
Tell us about your background. Where did you grow up, and when did you first become interested in science and medicine?
I grew up in the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan and spent my summers in high school working as a pool chemist, of all things! Before the routine use of pool water testing strips, we performed testing using traditional titration techniques. I loved it.
I went on to attend Albion College, a small liberal arts college, for undergrad. Despite having to take organic chemistry, I majored in chemistry because I had an amazing professor, the late Dr. David Green, and thoroughly enjoyed analytical chemistry and the use innovative technologies to interrogate biological processes. In fact, our capstone project determined the impact of various juices, sodas, and fluorinated water on the elemental-derived decomposition of extracted teeth determined by ICP-mass spectrometry.
I went on to complete my mid-west tour for graduate school at Michigan State University, developing some of the first examples of organ systems like the circulating vascular system on microfluidic chips integrated with fluorescence microscopy; then my basic science posdoc at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, using silicon photonic microring resonators for the determination of biomarkers in biological fluids such as amyloid-beta and tau proteins in CSF for the detection of Alzheimer’s disease.
Throughout all that time, I had always been interested in analytical chemistry but realized I wanted to apply my training more directly to medicine when my husband, Nick, was diagnosed with lymphoma. It was through this experience that I found the field of clinical chemistry and the vitally important role laboratory medicine plays in patient care. I subsequently completed my clinical chemistry post-doctoral fellowship at Mayo Clinic. I’m happy to report that Nick successfully completed his treatments over 15 years ago and is cancer free!
What is your career path?
I’ve spent the past 12 years in Boston at BIDMC and BWH directing the clinical chemistry, mass spectrometry, reproductive endocrinology, and point-of-care testing programs with a focus on driving system integration and standardization to improve quality. My research interests live at the intersection of innovation and quality improvement, often times starting by simply questioning the status quo and how things are traditionally done. I have a particular interest in improving patient care and physician experience such that we deliver the necessary test results, without delay, creating a streamlined processes for physicians to arrive at an actionable, final diagnosis as simply and rapidly as possible. I’ve approached this work with a focus on health equity and serving marginalized populations.
What are your favorite parts of your current role?
I’m so fortunate to be joining the teams here at Wash U and BJC with the opportunity to continue this work through collaborations and in an environment with an exceptional culture focused on research and innovation.
I’m joining the Clinical Chemistry section at BJH, serving as Medical Laboratory Director for Special Chemistry to include allergy, and immunology. With a focus on laboratory stewardship, I will be directing the BJH and SLCH send out sections. I will also serve as CLIA Medical Laboratory Director for the Memorial Hospital System.
Above all, my most favorite parts of my role are the opportunities to teach, and to learn from, the exceptional trainees here at Wash U.
What is a memorable moment you’ve had while working in the department?
I’ve only just started, but I’m looking forward to making many memorable moments with trainees and colleagues. My family and I have been so warmly welcomed and we are thankful to be a part of this community.
What special skills or talents do you have that people may not know about?
My husband and I have renovated our two prior homes ourselves (top to bottom). I stick to the design, electrical, and finish work like plaster and painting, while my husband leads the rough carpentry, plumbing, and jumps at the chance to operate any heavy machinery.
What are some of your favorite hobbies or activities?
I enjoy anything that combines the outdoors with photography. My favorite vacations so far have been Banff, Glacier, and Acadia national parks.
What is your advice to aspiring people in your field?
Say yes! It’s just as important to take advantage of opportunities early on as it is to learn to say “no” later in your career. Always stay true to your passions and core values!
