This profile is part of a series to highlight the researchers and leaders who will be honored at a ceremony on Nov. 6 for UNMC’s annual research awards – the prestigious Scientist Laureate Award and the Research Leadership, Distinguished Scientist, New Investigator, Career Achievement and Community Service to Research Awards.
New Investigator
New Investigator Awards go to outstanding UNMC scientists who in the past two years have secured their first funding from the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Defense or other national sources. New investigators also must demonstrate scholarly activity such as publishing their research and/or presenting their findings at national conventions.
- Name: Jingjing Sun, PhD
- Title: Assistant professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UNMC College of Pharmacy
- Joined UNMC: September 2023
- Hometown: Shandong Province, China
Describe your research focus in three words or less:
Targeted drug delivery
Why is research important in the world today?
Today, as we face many challenges such as cancer, climate change and global health threats, research is our compass. It not only deepens understanding but also sparks innovations that save lives and shape a better tomorrow. It is our powerful tool for building a better world.
My research will make a difference because:
My research will make a difference because it addresses one of the greatest challenges in medicine: how to treat diseases more effectively with fewer side effects. By developing smart nanocarriers for selective co-delivery of therapeutic agents, my work seeks to overcome drug resistance, enhance precision and reduce toxicity. This approach has the potential to transform cancer therapy into a more targeted, patient-friendly treatment, offering hope for improved survival and quality of life for patients.
The best advice I’ve ever received is:
To balance grant writing with research and mentoring/teaching, because sustaining a meaningful academic career requires not only securing funding, but also advancing science, supporting students and sharing knowledge.
Three things you may not know about me are:
- Although I’m an introvert, I really enjoy open collaboration.
- I like traveling.
- I’ve started exploring gardening as a new hobby.
Congratulations!
Congratulations, Jingjing!!
Congratulations, Jingjing! Well deserved!
Congratulations Jingjing!