Jennifer Bailey-Lundberg, PhD, is a new faculty member at UNMC.
- Name: Jennifer Bailey-Lundberg, PhD
- Title and department at UNMC: Associate professor and director, Solid Tumor Cancer Immunology Section, UNMC Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology; principal investigator, Bailey-Lundberg Lab; faculty member, Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center
- Hometown: Omaha
Research and professional interests:
My research focuses on the immune microenvironment in pancreatic diseases, particularly pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. Through National Institutes of Health-funded research, we are examining how modulating immune signaling pathways can improve cancer prevention and treatment.
For example, our work on combining radiofrequency ablation with immune checkpoint blockade aims to enhance anti-tumor immunity and reduce tumor growth in solid tumors. Additionally, our adenosine signaling project explores innovative approaches to reduce immune suppression and reshape therapeutic strategies for pancreatic cancer. By bridging basic science and clinical applications, our team works collaboratively to translate these findings into actionable therapies that improve patient care.
How I fell in love with science:
My passion for science began early in my academic career. I was selected for an undergraduate research fellowship (UCARE), where I first explored innate immunity and virology. A pivotal moment came when I was awarded a summer research fellowship at the National Institutes of Health. This transformative experience introduced me to the collaborative environment between scientists and physician-scientists. It was an exciting time to be at the NIH, just after the completion of the Human Genome Project. During my time there, I studied potential viral triggers of epilepsy in children, solidifying my desire to establish an independent lab focused on the “bench to bedside and back” approach.
Although my research focus shifted from neuroscience to cancer biology, my commitment to translating discoveries into tangible therapies has remained constant. I am excited about the opportunity to expand cancer immunology research and contribute to collaborative efforts at UNMC. At the same time, I’m grateful to be back in the Midwest, close to family, which is a rare opportunity in academia.
Education:
- PhD, cancer biology, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, UNMC
- Postdoctoral fellowship, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Memberships:
- American Association for Cancer Research
- American Gastroenterological Association
Three things people may not know about me:
- I love spending time with my beautiful, active family.
- I grew up playing competitive soccer.
- I enjoy distance running.
Lab: BCC 4.12.368 and 4.12.376