NOTE: This profile is part of series highlighting the 25 researchers who were named UNMC Distinguished Scientists for 2006. Each ot these researchers will be profiled in UNMC Today leading up to a March 12 ceremony to recognize their achievements.
- Name: Margaret Wheelock, Ph.D.
- Title: Professor, College of Dentistry
- Joined UNMC: 2001
- Hometown: Cresco, Iowa
Q: Describe your research in 25 words or less.
A: We study how cancer cells metastasize. To invade, metastatic cells must break away from neighboring cells. Our goal is to understand which genes regulate invasion.
Q: How did you decide to pursue this area of research?
A: I began this work as a postdoctoral fellow and it seemed important to me, so I pursued it in my own career.
Q: When did you realize you were interested in research?
A: When I was about 20.
Q: What are the greatest challenges in research today?
A: Keeping up with the rapidly advancing technology, especially in these times of decreased federal money for medical research.
Q: Best advice for new researchers?
A: Be persistent and learn how to accept criticism and use it to your advantage.
Q: When an experiment stalls, what drives you to continue on?
A: With experience, you know you can work it out.
Q: Who has been your greatest teacher?
A: My husband, Keith Johnson, who is the smartest scientist I know.
Q: Tell us about your family and hobbies outside the lab.
A: My husband and I like to bike and travel.
Q: Globally, describe the most notable research achievement ever?
A: Breaking the genetic code.
Q: Clarify a common misconception about research.
A: That it is hard to do. It is just like any other job, you learn as you go and it becomes second nature.
Q: What would you tell a student interested in a research career?
A: Go for it! It will be the most exciting thing you can do.
Q: List three things few people know about you.
- I taught undergraduate students for many years before coming to UNMC.
- I grew up on a farm.
- I like to cook.