Megan A MacGregor

Doctoral Candidate in the Faculty of Health Sciences

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

My name is Megan MacGregor, and I'm a PhD Candidate in the Faculty of Health Sciences. I love learning, and I love contributing to a healthier future for all people. In my graduate research, I get the opportunity to stand on the shoulders of giants, and produce novel research that, like a puzzle, comes together with the work of many others in pursuit of a similar goal.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

I was born and raised in the lower mainland, and I attended SFU summer camps as a kid. Specifically, I did a Science and Technology "Mini University" summer camp that made me fall in love with the campus and science all at once! I completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with a minor in Indigenous Studies at SFU. After I graduated, I made the choice to return to SFU to start graduate school in the Faculty of Health Sciences with the amazing faculty, staff, and community I found in the Maternal and Child Health Lab.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

My research focuses on energy and stress related biomarkers that influence health during postpartum. I study how internal biological, and external factors affect reproductive health outcomes.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Women's Health, Stress, and Reproductive Health

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

The opportunity to TA undergraduate and graduate courses in the Faculty of Health Sciences has been one of the most enjoyable parts of my graduate education. As a TA for courses with tutorials, I have the opportunity to shape and enhance the learning of students in my classrooms which, in turn, helps me learn about teaching and learning in a hands-on way. Watching my students grow their knowledge throughout the semester is a truly fulfilling and joyful experience for me.

Have you been the recipient of any major or donor-funded awards? If so, please tell us which ones and a little about how the awards have impacted your studies and/or research

I am very grateful to have been awarded a CIHR CGS-D in 2025 which funds my graduate education. On top of this, I have received a Mowafaghian Child Health Research and Practice Award, and several SFU and scientific association funded travel awards (Human Biology Association, International Joint Conference on Artificial Intelligence, SFU Travel and Research Award), which have supported my research and conference travel.

What are some tips for balancing your academic and personal life?

My best tip for having a good work/life balance is to have pre-set activities in your week. For me, this looks like being on a small club soccer team with scheduled practices and games every week. Having this "forced" balance means that there are people who are relying on me to be at the field, twice a week, for just a few hours. It's an important reminder that most things I'm working on can pause for a little while so I can get fresh air, exercise, and time with my friends. I've found that when I have unscheduled non-work time, my graduate work tends to spill into that time, unless I have the social commitment pushing back, and for me, soccer provides this pushback!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

To current and future graduate students, graduate school is a marathon. Be kind to yourself and satisfied in the knowledge that you deserve your place here. And always remember to make time for the things that feed your heart and soul!

Contact Megan :megan_macgregor@sfu.ca

Additional Links

• LinkedIn