This profile is part of a series to highlight the researchers who will be honored Feb. 2 at a ceremony for UNMC’s 2014 Scientist Laureate, Research Leadership, Distinguished Scientist and New Investigator Award recipients.
- Name: Jenny Wang, Ph.D.
- Title: Associate professor, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases
- Joined UNMC: 2007
- Hometown: Wuhan, China
Describe your research briefly in layman’s terms.
Cancer metastasis (cancer cells spreading to distant organs) is the main cause of cancer-related mortality. The research focus of my laboratory is to investigate the mechanisms of colon cancer metastasis and to identify molecular targets for colon cancer treatment.
How does your research contribute to science and/or health care?
Our research will not only provide mechanistic insight of regulation of cancer metastasis but also identify new targets for therapeutic intervention to prevent or treat metastasis and increase cancer patient survival.
What is the best piece of advice anyone ever gave you, professional or personal?
“Tian Wai You Tian” is a Chinese proverb that translates to “There are skies beyond skies.” It implies limitless possibility and opportunity as well as the limits of one’s knowledge.
List three things few people know about you.
- I have lived in the U.S. for 22 years.
- I love traveling and trying different kinds of exotic food.
- My son and I enjoy watching HGTV shows together.
Dear Dr. Wang, I am so excited for you to have received this award. Although I have only had one opportunity to work with you on grant submission, I have found you to be delightful and extremely goal-oriented. I also love traveling and trying exotic foods…but I draw the line at roasted bugs. Congratulations on your achievement.
Warmest congratulations and love to you both
Hugh