 |
Neena Haider, Ph.D. |
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: Neena Haider, Ph.D.
- Title: Assistant professor of genetics, cell biology and anatomy
- Joined UNMC: 2004
- Hometown: Jonesboro, Ark.
Describe your research in laymen’s terms.
We utilize genetic models of human retinal diseases to understand how genetic alterations can cause, protect and modify disease.
How does your research contribute to science and/or health.
We identify, develop and evaluate genes that can potentially treat and prevent blindness due to both rare and common retinal diseases such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinitis pigmentosa.
Beyond grant funding, how do you measure success?
Scientifically, by seeing the growth and success of my students and recognition of our work by the top scientists in the field, having them ask for my input and collaboration. Personally, the greatest measure of success will be when I am able to raise my children to be happy, kind, confident and the best that they can be.
List three things few people know about you.
- The world is my home. I was born in Pakistan and have lived in Africa, Malta and the United States.
- I am a closet artist.
- There is a reason few people know, and we’ll just leave it that way.