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Dmitry Oleynikov, M.D. |
NOTE: This profile is part of a series highlighting the 23 researchers who were named UNMC Distinguished Scientists or New Investigators for 2008. Each of these researchers will be profiled in UNMC Today leading up to a March 16 ceremony to recognize their achievements.
- Name: Dmitry Oleynikov, M.D.
- Title: Associate professor of surgery and director of minimally invasive and robotic surgery
- Joined UNMC: 2001
- Hometown: New York
Describe your research in laymen terms, please.
We develop new laparoscopic and robotic instruments to perform minimally invasive surgery.
What led you to pursue this area of research?
I’ve always wanted to perform surgeries with less-invasive techniques. I’ve always wanted to make sure that my patient did not suffer from pain and discomfort and have to stay in the hospital for lengthy periods of time as they do now from conventional open surgery.
How do you see your research contributing to science?
I hope this research helps other engineers and doctors to think of new ways to perform surgical procedures. Such that patients are not harmed in any way and the procedures are easier and more reliable to perform.
Why did you become a scientist?
I always enjoyed teaching and researching. I’ve always had a lot of questions about everything around me. I guess I just like to find out why things are the way they are.
What is your hope for the next generation of scientists?
I hope the next generation remains inquisitive. I hope they challenge current ideas and come up with new ideas.
Beyond grant funding, how do you measure success?
Success in science is answering questions that others have asked but no clear answer exists. If a scientist can answer questions that are interesting to other scientists, and non scientists, they have then achieved success in my opinion.
What would you tell a student interested in a research career?
It’s a very rewarding career that is stimulating and always changing and one that one would never be bored with.
Do you have a hero/role model? If so, what do you admire most about this person?
My role model is my chairman, Bud Shaw, M.D. I admire most that he was able to develop a world-class clinical and research program in the area of transplantation when most said it could not be done. I admire his vision, persistence and the ability to succeed with adversity.
Tell us about your family and hobbies outside of the lab.
I’m married with two children and I enjoy bicycling, running and exercising. My entire family and I completed a Sprint Triathlon last year with the kids participating in a shorter version.
Click here to see the UNMC Honors Web site, which features photos of profiles of the medical center’s Distinguished Scientists and New Investigators.