Meet UNMC Distinguished Scientist Tammy Kielian, Ph.D.









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Tammy Kielian, Ph.D.

UNMC researcher Tammy Kielian, Ph.D., answers questions about her work, life and interests.

NOTE: This profile is part of a series highlighting the 23 researchers who will be honored at an April 6 ceremony for UNMC’s 2009 Scientist Laureate, Distinguished Scientist and New Investigator award recipients.

  • Name: Tammy Kielian, Ph.D.
  • Title: Ph.D.
  • Joined UNMC: 2008
  • Hometown: Stanton, Neb.

Describe your research in laymen’s terms.

My laboratory studies the immune response to Staphylococcus aureus in hopes of identifying new pathways to enhance bacterial recognition and elimination from the body.

How does your research contribute to science and/or health care?

We hope to discover mechanisms that the immune response uses to fight staph infections and use this information to devise better treatment strategies for patients suffering from Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) infections.

Beyond grant funding, how do you measure success?

By training and mentoring graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and junior faculty to help them become successful independent research scientists.

List three things few people know about you.

  • I am an avid NFL fan
  • I love to play golf (whenever I get the time)
  • I’m mom to two wonderful sons (Nate and Matt)