Lookin’ at U – Dinesh Chandel, Ph.D.

Each Thursday, we randomly feature a medical center employee.

This week, we learn more about Dinesh Chandel, Ph.D., research assistant professor, environmental, agriculture and occupational health, College of Public Health.

• Name: Dinesh Chandel, Ph.D.
• Hometown: Chhapra BR, India
• Years of service at UNMC: Eight years

Tell us about what you do at UNMC.
I have dedicated more than a decade to researching ways to prevent newborn infections in developing countries. At UNMC, I was part of an international team that found that a probiotic strain could prevent sepsis and lung diseases in Indian newborns. My current research is on human gut-metagenomics and molecular epidemiology and surveillance of drug resistant infections in India and West Africa. Also, I supervise students in their capstone projects, lab research training of medical graduates, postdocs and visiting scientists at UNMC.

Innovation is one of UNMC’s iTEACH values. Tell us of a time you witnessed a person or group work to seek and implement better ideas at UNMC.
I have participated in university-wide “systems science & food for health” interactive forums organized at UNL’s innovation campus. My research horizons have widened as a result of working in collaboration with faculty at UNL and the VA.

Also, the first-of-its-kind African summit recently held on campus showcased a myriad of research opportunities in global public health.

What is your favorite summer activity?
My favorite sports are cricket and baseball, and I have enjoyed the summer College World Series in Omaha. I like going out with family and friends, but last summer was super fun when I sailed around Lake Superior.

List three things people may not know about you.

• I was born at a military hospital in Bareilly (India). My father and I recently visited there to get my original birth certificate, needed for a visa application. Records revealed that I was a preemie with low birth weight complicated by serious lung infections. My parents remain grateful to the NICU doctors who saved my life.
• I have two daughters who will enter Westside middle and high schools. I’m thankful to my wife, a fabulous homemaker with a master’s in biology, for giving the best care to our growing daughters.
• My childhood dream was to be a fighter pilot or a chief medical officer and serve in the military.