A Researcher, Leader & Mentor
For three decades聽聽has conducted research at the University of North Carolina. Most of those years have been spent as a member of the聽McAllister Heart Institute (MHI), with the last seven dedicated to her role as co-director.
Dr. Bautch is preparing to step down from her leadership position on June 30. Her journey at MHI has been marked by a passion for science, a commitment to mentorship, and a vision for collaborative cardiovascular research.
As a researcher, Dr. Bautch鈥檚 early work delved into the intricate processes of blood vessel formation during fetal development, illuminating the remarkable resilience and functionality of blood vessels even in their nascent stages. Over time, her research evolved to include a focus on the complex mechanisms that regulate blood vessel growth and function in adulthood, shaping our understanding of cardiovascular biology.
Her journey with MHI began as a founding member.
鈥淲hen I first came here as a junior faculty member, there was no cardiovascular institute. There were people like me already here and well, we formed the nucleus,鈥� Dr. Bautch said.
She later transitioned into the role of associate director before assuming the mantle of co-director. During her seven-year tenure as co-director, Dr. Bautch鈥檚 contributions have been instrumental in shaping MHI into a thriving hub of interdisciplinary research.
鈥淲e have placed a strong emphasis on assembling a diverse team of basic scientists and physician scientists using a wide range of approaches to understand cardiovascular biology,鈥� Dr. Bautch said.
鈥淥ur team includes cell biologists, pharmacists, biomedical engineers, physiologists, medical doctors and others, who are all interested in the cardiovascular field. I believe it鈥檚 really important to create pipelines to integrate these professionals and for their work to complement each other.鈥�
This collaborative spirit has not only enriched research endeavors but has also fostered a sense of community and shared purpose among MHI members. Through initiatives such as annual retreats, lunch meetings, research symposia, and other collaborative events, Dr. Bautch has cultivated an environment where knowledge exchange and collective growth thrive.
The Lab Work Continues
As she prepares to pass on the co-directorship role, Dr. Bautch鈥檚 legacy of collaboration, mentorship, and innovation will endure. Her efforts have not only elevated 黑料网鈥檚 cardiovascular research profile but have also laid a strong foundation for future advancements in cardiovascular biology, treatment, and care.
Dr. Rick Stouffer,聽chief of the Division of Cardiology, will continue as co-director of MHI.聽Dr. Li Qian, current associate director of MHI, will step into Dr. Bautch鈥檚 role as co-director.
鈥淒r. Bautch鈥檚 leadership over the years has been a large part of the reason for MHI鈥檚 success,鈥� Dr. Stouffer said. 鈥淪he will be sorely missed but we are lucky to have someone with Dr. Qian鈥檚 talents to take on her role as co-director.鈥�
Dr. Bautch will remain dedicated to her research at the bench where her passion for blood vessels first ignited, ensuring her fervor for discovery and mentorship inspires the next generation of leaders, particularly women, in cardiovascular research and beyond.