Lookin’ at U: Steve Curran

Each Thursday, we randomly feature a medical center employee. This week, we learn more about:

• Name: Steve Curran
• Hometown: Silver Spring, Md.
• Number of years at UNMC: Nine-plus

Tell us a bit about what you do here at UNMC:
I work in Dr. Joe Vetro’s lab in pharmaceutical sciences. The lab’s goal is to improve drug efficacy using nanotechnologies as a delivery vehicle. Actives lines of research include cancer therapies using siRNA as well as vaccine development using a novel molecular adjuvant developed by the late Dr. Sam Sanderson. I like the environment because we not only pursue academic research, but also are moving toward clinical trial.

“Excellence” is one of UNMC’s brand values. Tell us of a time you witnessed a person or group at UNMC exhibit excellence.
I know Dr. Vetro would encourage me to say “the Vetro lab!” This, of course, goes without saying (wink, wink wink).

In December I underwent vascular surgery to remove a significant blockage in my left carotid artery. Dr. Matt Longo’s surgical team and the staff of Neuro ICU provided absolutely outstanding care. Look up the word “excellence” in the dictionary and you’ll see a picture of these fine folks.

What is your favorite winter activity?
My family likes attending Omaha Lancers hockey games. Go Lancers!

List three things people may not know about you.

• I have six grandchildren and three grand-dogs.
• I am a retired Air Force aviator.
• During an annual review, Dr. Vetro once wrote: “no pay is too good for him.” No fooling, he really did. A proud moment indeed.