Distinguished scientist: Lynette Smith, PhD

This profile is part of a series to highlight the researchers who will be honored at a ceremony on Nov. 14 for UNMC’s Scientist Laureate, Research Leadership, Distinguished Scientist and New Investigator Award recipients.

• Name: Lynette Smith, PhD
• Title: Associate professor, Department of Biostatistics, UNMC College of Public Health
• Joined UNMC: August 2000
• Hometown: Culbertson, Nebraska

Describe your research focus in three words or less: 

Cancer biomarker discovery and validation

Why is research important in the world today?

Research, when appropriately carried out, is the best way to answer scientific questions due to its unbiased and systematic nature.

My research will make a difference because:

My work as a statistician is to ensure rigorous study design and that the most appropriate analysis methods are applied to address research questions. I also provide interpretations and assistance in results dissemination. Applying the best statistical practices to biomarker research, we hope to identify biomarkers that can detect cancer early when it can be resected, especially for pancreatic and ovarian cancers. We have found that single biomarkers do not have adequate performance for use in surveillance or screening, so as part of my biostatistics methodology development, we are working to determine combinations of biomarkers that have good performance upon validation. This requires robust methods for combining the biomarkers as well as protections against model overfitting.

The best advice I’ve ever received is:

Growing up on a farm, I experienced a way of life that taught me to work hard and keep focused on the goal you wish to achieve.

Three things you may not know about me are:

• I have crocheted two blankets and numerous scarves.
• I have a cute Bichon Frise, even though I am a cat person.
• Our team tied for first place in a “Schitt’s Creek” trivia contest.