Melissa K. Passarelli

Melissa K. Passarelli is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Concordia University, specializing in advanced imaging mass spectrometry techniques. Her work bridges analytical chemistry, biochemistry, and pharmaceutical sciences.

• Ph.D., The Pennsylvania State University
• B.Sc., Union College

Her research focuses on Imaging Mass Spectrometry (IMS), including Spatial 'omics, SIMS, and MALDI, for applications in intracellular drug measurement, subcellular chemical imaging, and neurodegenerative disease studies.

Recent publications highlight her innovations in 3D OrbiSIMS, correlative imaging methodologies, and single-cell analysis. Key trends include molecular mapping in Alzheimer’s pathology, drug delivery systems, and lipidomics.

Her lab collaborates on multi-modal approaches integrating atomic force microscopy (AFM) with single-cell mass spectrometry to evaluate drug uptake and biochemical effects. Funded by a FRQNT grant, this work addresses therapeutic and toxicological challenges.

Melissa teaches courses in Analytical Chemistry for Biologists and Imaging Mass Spectrometry, and maintains an active research group with expertise in mass spectrometry-based intracellular analysis.