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Runqing Lu, Ph.D. |
NOTE: This profile is part of a series highlighting the 26 researchers who were named UNMC Distinguished Scientists or New Investigators for 2007. Each of these researchers will be profiled in UNMC Today leading up to a March 20 ceremony to recognize their achievements.
- Name: Runqing Lu, Ph.D.
- Title: Assistant professor
- Joined UNMC: 2004
- Hometown: Zibo, China
Briefly describe your research in laymen terms, please.
I am interested in understanding how antibody producing cells (called B cell) are generated in the body. The defective generation of B cells is associated with diseases such as autoimmunity, leukemia and lymphoma.
What led you to pursue this area of research?
Initially, I was interested in how transcription factors control gene expression. It turned out the transcription factors I was studying play an important role in the development of B cells.
How do you see your research contributing to science?
Understanding the mechanisms that control normal B cell development could shed light on diseases that are often associated with abnormal B cell development, such as autoimmunity, leukemia and lymphoma.
Why did you become a scientist?
Back in school, I always enjoyed biology and chemistry classes, particularly the lab sections where you could do some experiments. Being a scientist you have the privilege to post questions and design experiments to find answers for those questions. That is very appealing to me.
What is your hope for the next generation of scientists?
I might have an answer for this question 20 years from now.
Beyond grant funding, how do you measure success?
Your success can also be measured by the impact of your research, which can be reflected by how often your works are cited by your peers and by the success of the students and postdoctoral fellows you trained.
What would you tell a student interested in a research career?
It is a tough, but rewarding career. To be successful, you must have a passion for the work and be a self-motivator.
Do you have a hero/role model? If so, what do you admire most about them?
Several people have had profound impacts on my career development. My graduate adviser, Dr. Ginette Serrero, taught me to be critical and rigorous. My postdoctoral mentors, Dr. Paula Pitha-Rowe, helped me realize the importance of getting your work published quickly and Dr. Harinder Singh taught me to always ask important questions and to publish your work in high-impact journals.
Tell us about your family and hobbies outside of the lab.
My wife and I met in college and we have two daughters. Isabelle is a first-grader and Jessica is only 10-months old. I like sports and I also enjoy fishing and cooking.
List three things few people know about you.
- I am a big pro football fan.
- My team is the Baltimore Ravens.
- I love spicy food.