Kevin L. Schey

Kevin L. Schey is a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, where he holds the Stevenson Chair in Biochemistry and directs core facilities at the Mass Spectrometry Research Center (MSRC). His research integrates cutting-edge mass spectrometry technologies with fundamental biochemical inquiry into development and disease.

His research focuses on advancing proteomics methodologies, particularly in top-down proteomics, spatially-resolved analysis, and membrane protein characterization. His lab develops innovative techniques such as MALDI tissue imaging and laser capture microdissection coupled with shotgun proteomics to study region-specific changes in protein expression and modification. These tools are applied to critical areas including ocular lens biochemistry, protein aging, and age-related macular degeneration. Additional applications span heart valve development, invertebrate immunity, and neurobiological changes in addiction.

The technological breadth of his work includes hydrogen-deuterium exchange MS, native mass spectrometry, single-cell proteomics, and advanced data analysis software, enabling deep investigation into post-translational modifications, protein crosslinking, and functional consequences of protein changes.

Dr. Schey leads multiple core facilities within the MSRC, including the Proteomics Laboratory, Imaging Mass Spectrometry Core, and R&D Lab, underscoring his central role in supporting institutional research infrastructure.

• Stevenson Chair in Biochemistry
• Director of Core Facilities, Mass Spectrometry Research Center

His lab has contributed to significant scientific advances, including the first image fusion of mass spectrometry and microscopy, a breakthrough with potential applications in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Through sustained NIH funding and collaborative science, Dr. Schey continues to push the boundaries of proteomic technology and its biomedical applications.

The Schey Lab maintains an active research presence with a strong emphasis on instrumentation development and biological application. The lab is integrated within the Mass Spectrometry Research Center ecosystem, comprising several specialized cores that support university-wide research in proteomics, imaging, and method development.