UNMC researcher Paul Dunman, Ph.D., answers questions about his 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.
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Paul Dunman, Ph.D. |
- Name: Paul Dunman, Ph.D.
- Title: Assistant professor of pathology and microbiology
- Joined UNMC: 2004
- Hometown: Smyrna, Del.
Describe your research in laymen’s terms.
The overarching goal of our research is to develop new antibiotics for the treatment of bacterial infections.
How does your research contribute to science and/or health care?
We use two very different bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii, as model organisms for our research. S. aureus has surpassed HIV as a cause of death in the United States. A. baumannii has emerged as a predominant cause of infections within military personnel injured during Operation Iraqi Freedom and has recently caused deadly outbreaks in the United States and Europe. New antibiotics are urgently needed for treating infections caused by both organisms.
Beyond grant funding, how do you measure success?
This is a unique profession that allows one to apply his or her skill-set toward addressing a scientific question while simultaneously training the next generation of scientists. The accomplishments of the scientists that I mentor are far more important than my own accolades and are the ultimate measure of success.
List three things few people know about you.
- I have twin, 3-year-old daughters, Emma and Morgan. Recently Emma told me that she loves “mommy, Aunt Amy and white cheese.” Morgan loves “pink bicycles, pickles and princess shoes.”
- I once drove a NASCAR race car.
- I married a New Yorker.