During her time at CVIT, Dr. Cindy McCabe developed not only as a researcher, but also as a collaborator, problem-solver, and confident scientific voice. Her PhD journey was shaped by challenging technical projects, meaningful collaborations, and a supportive research community that helped her grow both professionally and personally.
One of the most significant parts of her research focused on modeling photon-counting CT (PCCT) scanners, a project that combined advanced coding with complex imaging physics. “My biggest and favorite challenge was modeling the PCCT scanner,” she said. “It challenged my technical skills in coding and building a computationally efficient methodology, while also pushing me scientifically to determine the best way to approximate the physics of PCCT.” The experience strengthened both her technical abilities and her understanding of the science behind advanced medical imaging systems.
Cindy transitioned directly from undergraduate studies into her PhD, something she now sees as a natural continuation of the skills and mindset she had already developed during her bachelor’s degree. “My technical skills from my bachelor’s degree were well applied to my PhD,” she explained. “I also felt that I was in the right mindset to continue working in an academic setting.”
One lesson that stayed with her from early on was the importance of learning how to independently move projects forward. “The PhD is a series of projects where coming up with your own action items is a vital skill to your progress,” she said. “That gave me a good foundation and, in my opinion, was one of the most important skills to successfully finish my PhD.” Her research contributes to the broader field of medical imaging by investigating variability in lung nodule volumetry and helping improve the interpretation of true nodule growth. Along the way, collaboration became a major part of her development.
She highlighted both the ORNL collaboration and the VNLST project as experiences that strengthened her teamwork and leadership skills. “Both taught me how to work with a group of individuals toward a common goal,” she shared. “They greatly increased my collaboration skills and taught me how to move large-scale projects forward.”
Over the course of her PhD, Cindy also became more confident in sharing her ideas and trusting her own scientific perspective. “My mentors encouraged me to bring my scientific ideas to them,” she reflected. “I used to be shy about sharing what I was really thinking or questioning whether my ideas were good enough, but every idea is worth consideration and can lead to insightful conversations.”
For Cindy, one of the most meaningful aspects of being part of CVIT was the sense of community within the lab. “It was wonderful to have so many people to collaborate with and ask for help,” she said. Some of her favorite memories came from outside the lab as well, especially participating together in the annual Angel Among Us 5K.
As she reflects on her PhD experience, Cindy says the confidence she gained may be one of the most valuable outcomes of the journey. “There are many problems that can come about — technical or otherwise — and I have gained the confidence to tackle anything that comes my way,” she said.
For students considering going directly from a bachelor’s degree into a PhD, her advice is simple: “Go for it. Your PhD project is your own. It really is an opportunity for you to learn and gain confidence in your work.”
While graduating marks the end of her PhD journey, Cindy is not saying goodbye to CVIT. She will continue with the lab in a new role as CVIT’s lab manager, bringing with her the technical expertise, collaborative spirit, and confidence she developed throughout her years as a PhD student.
