Megan Foeller, MD
2017 Queenan Global Health Award
Currently at Washington University in
St. Louis
What was the most memorable part of your Foundation-funded project or experience as a Foundation awardee?
In 2018, I received the Queenan award that enabled me to work at the WHO for 6 months. This led for an outstanding opportunity to participate in research and guideline development with WHO in Geneva. The most impactful part of this experience is that it has allowed me ongoing work and mentoring from the WHO. Since the completion of the Queenan, I have continued to work with WHO regarding Ebola virus disease in pregnancy (now ongoing for over a year). I have subsequently been able to return to Geneva for meetings, collaborate with experts worldwide, and continue to work on related projects.
If you received funding for a research project, are you still involved in that area of research?
Yes.
Tell us more about what you're currently working on.
I am now involved in global health research regarding infectious disease in pregnancy. I continue to work with WHO as well as at my current institution. I am in the initial stages of launching implementation research projects in low-resource settings in Africa. Further, we are hopeful to expand MFM training at collaborating sites globally.
How did the award influence your career?
The award strengthened my interest in global health research, implementation research and policy work through involvement with WHO. Working on infectious disease (Ebola virus) has sparked my interest in other ID-projects globally, including malaria and HIV.
What lessons (e.g., personal, professional, life, etc.) did you learn that you would like to pass on to future awardees?
The importance of networking with experts and seeking mentors who are invested in furthering your career and interest areas. My mentors at WHO have provided me with continued support and outstanding opportunities to continue work in the global arena.
Did you submit an abstract for #SMFM20?
No.
Where did you do your MFM fellowship?
Stanford University.
What do you like best about being an MFM?
Patient care to connect with patients on an individual level, and research to work on large-scale implementation projects.
What do you hope to be doing in 10 years?
Similar to what I am doing now - patient care and global health research.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I grew up in Colorado and my favorite activity is hiking. The best hiking I have ever experienced was in the Swiss alps, and I miss being a short train ride away from them.
