Brian Cullum

Brian Cullum is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). He holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of South Carolina (1998) and a B.S. in Chemistry from Frostburg State University (1994). Previously, he conducted post-doctoral research at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (1999).

• Research Focus: Development of advanced optical and spectroscopic tools for biomedical and environmental sensing at both nano- and macro-scales.
• Labs: Cullum Lab specializes in THORS (Thermally-induced Optical Reflection of Sound), SERS (Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering) nano-imaging, intracellular sensors, and defense-oriented chemical detection.

Recent research emphasizes real-time clinical diagnostics for cancer and nanoscale cellular monitoring. His work spans implantable sensors for single-cell analysis to macro-scale spectroscopic techniques. Publications highlight interdisciplinary applications in synthetic bone materials, kidney stone dissolution, and gamma-ray sensing nanocomposites.

Scientific Honors:

• 2017 FACSS Innovation Award
• Fellow of SPIE (2014)
• 2004 Eli Lilly Analytical Academic Award
• 2003 R&D 100 Award
• Promising Analytical Chemist Award (2003–2005)

Teaching: Courses in analytical chemistry, instrumental methods, and advanced spectroscopy (CHEM 300, 461, 662, etc.).