Researcher Spotlight: Andy Bi, MD, PhD

University of nebraska Medical Center

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an aggressive and often treatment-refractory type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Using advanced sequencing techniques, Dr. Bi’s research aims to identify distinct genetic variants that contribute to treatment resistance and drive tumor progression in MCL. “This research will establish a critical foundation for the development of more personalized and effective therapeutic strategies,” Dr. Bi predicts. “Ultimately, the findings have the potential to identify novel treatment targets, improve outcomes for high-risk patient populations, and advance a more precise, biology-informed approach to MCL management.”

Dr. Bi’s interest in lymphoma research began during his time as a graduate student at Sichuan University (China) and the University of Nebraska Medical Center. “What initially drew me in and still motivates me is the complexity of the disease and the urgent need for better treatment options,” he explains. “This project builds on my long-term efforts to understand the genetic drivers of MCL and represents a critical step toward more precise, personalized therapies for patients facing limited options.”

Dr. Bi hopes to leverage the support he receives through the Lymphoma Scientific Mentoring Program to strengthen his research and expand his translational research program, which he emphasizes is already built upon a strong foundation of mentorships, collaboration, and teamwork. “My goal is to further advance precision medicine in lymphoma by integrating genomic insights with functional validation and clinical application,” he says.