Bing Ma, a health physics professor, has applied her electrical engineering degrees to medical technology. She is using her expertise to help develop imaging biomarkers that will be used to evaluate therapeutic efficacy in cancer patients. If successful, ineffective treatment will be identified much earlier than current methods, allowing physicians to prescribe alternative treatment regimens.

Why UNLV?

I have always been interested in teaching. I am very fortunate to have met quite a few excellent professors and mentors and they led by example and instilled in me an awe and respect for the profession. I have always wanted to share my knowledge and experience with students and researchers. Until now, I have focused mostly in research. I am excited to further my career combining research and teaching at UNLV.

What's the biggest challenge in your field?

The biggest challenge is that you must constantly read and learn to keep up with new ideas and technologies in this dynamic and rapidly growing field.

What inspired you to get into your field?

I always loved and excelled in math and science, which led me to the fascinating and rewarding field of electrical engineering. In my field, math and science are creatively used to solve a broad range of practical problems, including my current research focus in image-guided cancer interventions.

What is the proudest moment in your life?

My proudest moment so far is earning my Ph.D.

If you could fix one thing in the world, what would it be?

I would fix closed-mindedness. "Minds are like parachutes: they only function when open," says Lord Thomas Dewar.

Who was your favorite professor?

My favorite professor is Dr. Charles Meyer, my previous mentor at the University of Michigan Medical School. He is a brilliant scientist who is always there for his students and mentees. Dr. Meyer went the extra mile to nurture my research. I wouldn't be where I am today without his insightful guidance. I learned so much from him.

What are your hobbies?

I am a voracious reader. I enjoy a variety of topics including nonfiction and fiction, and am currently reading about how science and technology have evolved during the past 100 years. I also love traveling and hiking.

--compiled by Kevin Dunegan, communications specialist for the schools of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences