Previously, Dr. Unsihuay Vila developed MS approaches for imaging biological systems under ambient conditions. She developed methods that significantly improved the coverage, specificity, and sensitivity of lipids and other biomolecules in complex tissues. Dr. Unsihuay Vila developed an innovative method for analyzing isomeric unsaturated lipids using online photochemical derivatization coupled to imaging, thereby providing in-depth chemical characterization and spatial information for the same experiment. She also has expertise in high-resolution MS imaging and its integration with techniques such as ion mobility, further advancing the capabilities of molecular imaging. In the future, she envisions translating these technologies into clinical applications, particularly for the analysis of biopsies, paving the way for more precise diagnostics and personalized patient care.

“I am deeply honored to receive this award,” said Dr. Unsihuay Vila. “My journey to Singapore was truly transformative, allowing me to learn from experts and witness groundbreaking research being conducted. I was fortunate to participate in the MSACL workshop, which proved to be both educational and an invaluable platform for networking with colleagues in the clinical mass spectrometry field. The advice and insights shared during the workshop were incredibly valuable. I am especially impressed by the strong academic collaborations that Agilent has fostered in this area, and I hope to establish similar partnerships in my lab. I will return to the U.S. with new knowledge and connections, and inspired by the initiatives I observed, which will play a crucial role in my development as a clinical mass spectrometry director.”

“Agilent is thrilled to announce that Dr. Daisy Unsihuay Vila, has been awarded the 2025 Darlene Solomon Award,” stated Jennifer Gushue, associate vice president of LCMS Marketing at Agilent. “Dr. Unsihuay Vila’s groundbreaking work in mass spectrometry is revolutionizing clinical chemistry. Her innovative techniques enhance the performance of mass spectrometry platforms analyzing complex systems. We are excited to support her ongoing research as it continues to push the boundaries of mass spectrometry, making it a more powerful tool for clinical and biological applications.”

The Darlene Solomon Award included travel to the 13th International Singapore Lipid Symposium (iSLS13), held February 24-28 at the National University of Singapore, where Dr. Unsihuay Vila received the award. Additionally, Dr. Unsihuay Vila visited the Agilent Global Solutions Development Center in Singapore, where she worked alongside Agilent scientists, experiencing hands-on practical experience of Agilent products and workflows serving the life sciences and applied market space and engaging with Agilent experts and leaders for coaching and career advice.

The Darlene Solomon Award is co-sponsored by FeMS (Females in Mass Spectrometry) and Agilent Technologies. It was created to promote mass spectrometry research and provide financial support to early-career female scientists to attend various mass spectrometry conferences sponsored by Agilent or FeMS. Candidates for the award include high-potential scientists poised to benefit from cutting-edge research in lipidomics, systems biology, and clinical research, who are looking to gain more exposure to industry-leading technologies in this space. Agilent is proud to be a platinum sponsor of the iSLS13 – 13th International Singapore Lipid Symposium.

FeMS is an international community-led initiative to create a network of support for women in the field of mass spectrometry. FeMS aims to bring together, encourage, empower, and facilitate the visibility of women in mass spectrometry. The organization strives to engage the entire community of women in mass spectrometry and their supporters to hear and learn from all perspectives. As a global network, FeMS supports all related events where women working in the MS field gather. Learn more at https://femalesinms.com.