This profile is part of a series to highlight the researchers who will be honored at a ceremony on Nov. 9 for UNMC’s Scientist Laureate, Research Leadership, Distinguished Scientist, New Investigator and Community Service to Research Award recipients.
New Investigator
The New Investigator Award is given to outstanding UNMC scientists who in the past two years have secured their first funding from the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Defense or other national sources. New investigators also had to demonstrate scholarly activity, such as publishing their research and/or presenting their findings at national conventions.
- Name: Jungyoon Kim, PhD
- Title: Assistant professor, Department of Health Services Research and Administration, UNMC College of Public Health
- Joined UNMC: 2011
- Hometown: Daegu, South Korea
Please describe your research focus in three words or less: Cancer prevention for underserved
Why is research important in the world today? Research can make people live a better life. Whether it is biological research at laboratories or translational research in the field, the ultimate purpose of the research is to help humans and make the world they live in a better place.
My research will make a difference because: About this time last year, my research assistant and I were busy following up with our research participants who were screened positive for colon cancer using home tests. We called patients to make sure they talk to their primary doctor about the results and encourage them to schedule a follow up colonoscopy. One day, I got an email from my research assistant, saying: Dr. Kim, I was finally able to talk to Mr. Johns (fictional name). He said he went through a colonoscopy last week, and they found two polyps and removed both. He was forever grateful.
This was a moment I felt that I made a difference through my research.
The best advice I’ve ever received is: Don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.
Three things you may not know about me are:
- I play drums in my church band.
- I do silly dances with my 3-year-old daughter.
- In my free time, I like to swim.
Congratulations Dr. Kim!!!
Thinking of you often my friend! Big congratulations! Abundant blessings, ~Sonja
Congratulations, Dr. Kim! Well deserved!
Congratulations JY!!!
Congrats, Dr. Kim! I didn’t know you played the drums! How cool 🙂
Congratulations JY!! Such an honor to work with you!
Congratulations, Dr. Kim. Your award is well deserved!!!