Core Strength

It might be May, but Winter has arrived on campus.

That would be Michelle Winter, who joined OVPR last month as the new AVP for research core facilities after three decades at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City. 

She tells us why she came to UT after spending her entire adult life as a Jayhawk, as well as what she likes most about her new job. She also apparently misses Kansas City BBQ already, which, well… she’s still new to Texas — there’s plenty of time to convert her.

Welcome to the OVPR team! Tell us a little about your previous experience and how you ended up here. What appealed to you most about UT Austin, OVPR and this role in particular?

I spent 30 years at the University of Kansas Medical Center, most recently leading a wide range of biomedical research facilities, from basic science to translational cores.

Coming to UT Austin was an opportunity to expand that impact in a meaningful way. What really appealed to me was the diversity of research supported here — from biomedical and life sciences to materials science, microelectronics, advanced imaging, geosciences and energy-related research. Being able to support such a wide range of scientific communities is both exciting and incredibly motivating.

Equally important was the experience I had throughout the recruitment process. The OVPR team was welcoming, thoughtful and clearly committed to both the people and the mission of the institution. That sense of professionalism and warmth made it an easy decision, and it’s something I’ve continued to experience since joining.

I know you just started, but how would you describe your job? 

I see my role as a facilitator of research excellence, providing leadership and oversight for our core facilities to ensure they have the right expertise paired with the right technologies in support of the research mission. 

I also spend a lot of time as a translator. Our core experts often bring forward complex challenges, and part of my role is to translate those into solutions across different functions, whether that’s operations, business processes, IT or another modality. That requires being able to speak enough of each “language” to help move solutions forward.

And importantly, I think of myself as a storyteller. Core facilities provide highly specialized, often behind-the-scenes support, and it’s essential to translate their work into meaningful narratives — highlighting accomplishments, challenges and opportunities for a wide range of audiences, from students and faculty to chairs, deans and institutional leadership.

What is your favorite thing about the job so far?

The people, without question. That’s always been the magic for me, and I haven’t been let down — all of the individuals I’ve met so far have been incredibly thoughtful, committed and welcoming.

A close second has been getting a sense of the scale and structure here. UT is a large and complex ecosystem with so many different colleges, schools and units, and I’m realizing just how many relationships will be important to making things work well here. It’s been a great reminder that supporting research at this level is as much about understanding and connecting people as it is about the work itself.

I’m looking forward to continuing to build those relationships so we can best support the science and ensure the core facilities are well aligned with the broader research mission.

What do you think of Austin so far? Did you have any connection to the area before moving here?

It may be cliché to say, but it’s definitely starting to get hot! I’m also still adjusting to Austin drivers. Let’s just say the “rules of the road” feel more like suggestions at times, which has been… entertaining.

That said, I really enjoy the overall vibe of the city. It’s laid back, welcoming and has a great energy. I didn’t have a connection to Austin before moving here, but I’m enjoying getting to know it and looking forward to exploring more.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Right now, I’m still figuring out what “free time” looks like in a new role! I’ve been focused on getting up to speed, but when I do have time, I enjoy reading, catching up on a good TV series and spending time with my family, especially around meals or games — just being together.

I also love quieter moments outdoors, listening to the birds and watching hummingbirds during migration season. I’m looking forward to finding that rhythm again here.

You moved here from Kansas City, another place famous for its BBQ. Have you had a chance to try Austin BBQ yet? Would you dare make a comparison on the record?

That feels like a bit of a setup! I’m used to debating which Kansas City BBQ is best — Q39, Jack Stack, Gates — not comparing it to anything outside of KC. We take our BBQ very seriously.

For me, great BBQ includes a thick, slightly sweet sauce with just the right amount of tang, plus an amazing side of cheesy corn bake or jalapeño cornbread. That’s hard to beat.

I’ve started trying BBQ here in Austin and am looking forward to exploring more, but I’ll reserve comment until I’ve built a larger sample size. For now, I’ll admit I’m still craving my Kansas City favorites!

And finally, most important: If you had to eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

Without a doubt, homemade oven-baked mac and cheese. It’s my ultimate comfort food — warm, simple, perfect. There’s just something about it that feels like home every time.