Thomas O. Metz

Dr. Thomas O. Metz is a Laboratory Fellow and Chief Science Officer in the Biological Sciences Division at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). He leads research in metabolomics, lipidomics, and proteomics, with a focus on developing advanced mass spectrometry methods and computational approaches for metabolite identification. His work spans chronic diseases (e.g., type 1 diabetes), infectious diseases, and environmental exposures, contributing to over 200 publications.

Education:

• BS in Biology, Frostburg State University
• BS in Chemistry, San Jose State University
• PhD in Chemistry, University of South Carolina
• Postdoctoral fellowship in mass spectrometry, PNNL

His research integrates multi-omics technologies to uncover disease mechanisms, emphasizing lipid signaling, biomarker discovery, and host-pathogen interactions. Recent work explores mass spectrometry innovations for exposomics and viral infection responses, with consistent themes of data standardization and computational tool development.

Scientific Awards:

• Pathways to Excellence Award, PNNL (2024, 2023, 2022)
• Paper of the Year Award, PNNL (2021, 2019, 2017)
• Major Proposal Award, PNNL (2018, 2017)
• Keynote Speaker, Metabolomics Society (2017)
• Patent/Software Awards, PNNL (2016, 2014, 2014)
• Outstanding Performance Awards, PNNL (2012, 2008, 2007, 2006)

He directs major initiatives like the PNNL m/q Initiative and co-leads the NEXUS ChemBio Analytical Sciences Hub. Grants include NIH programs (Undiagnosed Diseases Network, Metabolomics Program). His team develops cutting-edge analytical platforms at PNNL’s Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory.