Student Spotlight - Jessica Rice

Jessica Rice

Student, PhD

1. The “Spark”

What initially sparked your interest in this research area, and what problem are you most passionate about solving?
My interest in this research area has been profoundly inspired by my mentor, Dr. Matthew Smeltzer, who is an active thoracic oncology epidemiologist. His work with the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) has exposed me to the clinical and public health challenges surrounding lung cancer surgical resection quality and staging. My family’s personal connection to lung cancer also drives my enthusiasm for this work, as my husband lost his father tragically to lung cancer. Currently, I am passionate about producing actionable evidence that improves lung cancer staging and surgical outcomes.

2. The “Journey”

Can you share a key moment or challenge in your research—an “aha!” discovery or a hurdle you overcame—and how you navigated it?
A key moment during my research journey at the University of Memphis so far has been attending the 2025 World Conference on Lung Cancer (WCLC) in Barcelona, Spain. I had the opportunity to present our group’s nodal staging research and to engage with leading thoracic oncology researchers from around the world. This opportunity refined the direction of my research and has been instrumental in my professional development. Experiencing the forefront of groundbreaking lung cancer research firsthand was inspiring, and it will continue to fuel my passion for this field.

3. The “Big Picture”

How do you see your research impacting the real world or contributing to your field in the next few years?
The nodal staging research I am currently working on will help to inform current and future international lung cancer staging guidelines. A key part of this work is confirming the clinical utility of current recommendations as well as making inferences to provide evidence for future iterations of the guidelines. Dr. Smeltzer’s research group, in collaboration with the Baptist Cancer Center Thoracic Oncology Research Group, is highly regarded by the global lung cancer community, positioning this research well to make an impact.

4. The “Inspiration”

Who has influenced your research path (a teacher, scientist, mentor, or even a fictional character), and what is one thing you learned from them?
My grandfather, a geophysicist, has been instrumental in my research path. He initially sparked my interest in science and has continued to be my #1 supporter on this academic journey. I live by his mantra “luck is when preparation meets opportunity”. 

5. The “Personal Touch”

What is one unique skill or non-academic hobby that supports your research or keeps you motivated?
I am thankful for the Memphis volleyball community for keeping me active and motivated on and off the court. Additionally, my husband (Adam) and our 2 black labs (Boomer & Bogey) provide lots of support.