The International Day of Women and Girls in Science highlights the importance of encouraging curiosity, education and opportunity for girls interested in STEM. By celebrating women scientists and their work, the day aims to inspire future generations to pursue careers in science and research.
Today, we are highlighting Heather Jensen Smith, PhD, director of UNMC’s Advanced Microscopy and Image Analysis Core Facility, a principal investigator on research and instrument grants, and an assistant professor in the UNMC Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy.
What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM?
“I’ve always been driven by curiosity, wanting to understand how things work and what’s happening beneath the surface. Over time, I’ve seen how easily that curiosity can be pushed aside by busy lives, social expectations, financial constraints or limited access to science-curious peers. What inspired me to stay in STEM was realizing that curiosity, drive and passion are not temporary, they’re personal assets you get to own.”
How does your work impact patients, students or the community?
“My work focuses on turning advanced technology into shared opportunities for discovery, innovation and impact. By building and leading imaging and analysis resources at UNMC, I help researchers translate complex biological questions into high-quality data, forging scientific discoveries capable of improving therapies and patient outcomes.
“Equally important to me is helping people recognize their own potential. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with learners ranging from elementary and high school students to undergraduates, graduate trainees and professionals, including helping educate over one million international middle school students through science education initiatives. When people are given access to science, tools and mentorship, they gain confidence in their ability to ask questions, solve problems and shape their own futures.”
What’s one problem in your field you’re excited to help solve?
“One challenge I’m deeply invested in solving is the common misconception that having advanced instrumentation automatically means advanced science. Discovery depends on the scientific knowledge to design rigorous experiments, interpret complex data and ask meaningful questions. Without that foundation, even the most sophisticated tools can be underutilized. In other words, advanced instruments don’t guarantee advanced science. Driven, curious people with access to advanced technologies do.
“By investing in access, education and shared infrastructure, we maximize return on research investment and ensure discoveries translate into real benefits for science, medicine and our communities.”
What advice would you give to young women considering a STEM career?
“Protect your curiosity. Curiosity, drive and passion are powerful assets that belong to you. Life circumstances will change, but curiosity, drive and passion can carry you through uncertainty, opening doors you didn’t even know existed.
“If you’re considering a STEM career, know that staying in science is possible and rewarding when you find environments that value collaboration, mentorship and growth. Scientific careers often aren’t linear, and that’s a strength, not a weakness. Whether you remain in research, move into technology, education, leadership or something entirely new, thinking like a scientist will serve you for life. Furthermore, science is better when diverse voices choose to stay engaged.”