UNMC Distinguished Scientist Steven Hinrichs, M.D., talks about his work, life and interests.
NOTE: This profile is part of a series highlighting the researchers who were named UNMC Distinguished Scientists for 2006. Each of these researchers will be profiled in UNMC Today leading up to a ceremony today to recognize their achievements.
- Name: Steven Hinrichs, M.D.
- Title: Senior associate dean for research development in UNMC’s College of Medicine, professor in UNMC’s Department of Pathology and Microbiology and director of the Nebraska Center for Biosecurity
- Joined UNMC: 1991
- Hometown: Raised in Dickinson, N.D.
Describe your research in 25 words or less.
I have dual interests, primarily focusing on infectious diseases and the identification of new strategies to develop antibiotics, as well as new approaches to diagnosis or laboratory tests.
How did you decide to pursue this area of research?
For many years I’ve been involved in viral pathogenesis and since 9/11 the national need has changed to focus on other highly infectious organisms.
When did you realize you were interested in research?
During medical school I was involved in a research project funded by Smith Kline to evaluate parent’s perceptions of how well their children were being cared for in a clinic setting. After that, I was infected with the research bug.
What are the greatest challenges in research today?
One of the biggest challenges is maintaining the cutting-edge technology and knowledge. The other area of challenge is maintaining funding and access to cutting-edge technologies and facilities.
Best advice for new researchers?
Get a broad education and pursue things you enjoy doing.
When an experiment stalls, what drives you to continue on?
The challenge of a problem, the challlenge of finding an innovative alternative.
Who has been your greatest teacher?
I’ve been fortunate to have many different teachers including my original teachers from college all the way through my residency and fellowship. But I’ve also learned a lot from patients and the problems that they present me with.
Tell us about your family and hobbies outside the lab.
I’ve been married for 26 years and have two boys and have an interest in the outdoors as well as in music.
Globally, describe the most notable research achievement ever?
The most significant discovery was the finding of viruses and the recognition that viruses could be manipulated in bacteria, which gave birth to the entire field of molecular biology.
Clarify a common misconception about research?
The biggest misconception of research is that regarding breakthroughs, where the media describe a finding as a breakthrough as if it happened overnight. Most breakthroughs actually take 10 to 15 years to develop.
What would you tell a student interested in a research career?
It’s a wonderful and fulfilling life.
List things few people know about you.
- I’m from North Dakota … As far as I know I don’t have many secrets.