Matt Henke

Email Address: mhenke3@uic.edu
College: Pharmacy Department: Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy
Title: Assistant Professor
Office: MBRB 3020 Phone: 3129963371
Webpage: https://henke.lab.uic.edu
Participating in the Chancellor’s Undergraduate Research Awards program: Yes

Research Interest:
The Henke lab is interested in discovering functional molecules from the human microbiome. To do this, we employ mass spectrometry, microbial culture, and a variety of bioassays to identify, purify and structurally characterize new molecules. We are particularly interested in how microbes fight each other for dominance in the gut (e.g., antibiotics), and how microbes interact both positively and negatively with our own cells (e.g., immune cell stimulation, epithelial cell behavior).

Minimum time commitment in hours per week: 8

Qualifications of a Student:
Interest in any of the following: microbiology, human disease, natural products isolation and characterization, mass spectrometry. Any biomedical or chemical majors are welcome to apply, regardless of previous experience. No previous lab skills are required, though the following may be helpful: growing bacteria, protein purification, PCR, protein gels, basic organic chemistry lab techniques (liquid-liquid extraction, TLC, rotovap), HPLC. Curiosity and engagement with lab culture are essential.

Brief Summary of what is expected from the student:
A highly successful lab member is one who is consistent, engaged and collegial. Over time, all group members are expected to participate with curiosity in group meeting, asking questions and providing suggestions to other labmates.
What is required/expected:
1) Diligent record keeping of plans, what was done in lab, and subsequent data analysis.
2) Consistent schedule. While great flexibility exists in your hours/when you work in the lab, knowing when to expect you is extremely helpful for planning out collaborative experiments.
3) Receptiveness to constructive feedback on lab skills, communication skills, time-management skills.

Return to Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy list

Return to Departments list