An academic leader in neuroscience and other fields, Maeghan Murie-Mazariegos, PhD, is the math and science division head at Nebraska Indian Community College, where she supports programs, advises pre-nursing students, oversees budgets and supplies, and ensures compliance with government regulations. She also teaches courses in microbiology, anatomy and physiology, introduction to health care, and medical terminology. Moreover, Dr. Maeghan Murie-Mazariegos is responsible for developing resources and has successfully secured National Science Foundation grants to renovate the college’s laboratories.
Prior to accepting her current position in 2024, Dr. Murie-Mazariegos was a health science faculty member at Nebraska Indian Community College for nearly two years. Her dedication to education was further exemplified during her stint as an adjunct professor at Pawnee Nation College, connecting with students remotely, which she considers one of her best assignments as an educator. Part of Dr. Murie-Mazariegos’ own path in academia included being a graduate research assistant for six years at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she conducted significant research on neurodegeneration, progeria, and Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, she was a teaching assistant at Oklahoma State University.
Securing an extensive educational foundation, Dr. Murie-Mazariegos earned a Doctor of Philosophy in neuroscience from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She completed her undergraduate studies at Oklahoma State University, receiving a dual Bachelor of Science in biochemistry and molecular biology and chemistry. Her academic achievements have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Pre-Doctoral Training Program T32 Fellowship for Biology of Aging and Related Disorders and an honorable mention for the Ford Fellowship.
Dr. Murie-Mazariegos is devoted to increasing the representation of Indigenous students in academia as evidenced by her involvement with the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS). As a member of the Native American and Indigenous People Committee and of the membership committee within SACNAS, Dr. Murie-Mazariegos fosters greater involvement of Indigenous students in community engagement, higher education, and research endeavors. She is also facilitating the formation of a native neuro group to promote collaboration among diverse Indigenous scientific disciplines.
Looking ahead, Dr. Murie-Mazariegos is focused on establishing a reputable research institution dedicated to enabling Indigenous people to engage in scientific study and pursue careers in the medical field. She also is developing a program for Indigenous environmental health to offer a bachelor’s degree in science at the institution. Additionally, Dr. Murie-Mazariegos has been accepted into a law program to further explore her interest in Indigenous law and will soon begin her legal education. Adjacent to these pursuits, she is participating in the Indigenous Health Certificate Program at the University of North Dakota to enhance understanding among faculty members about public health administration and Indigenous health issues.
For Dr. Murie-Mazariegos, there have been multiple motivations and reasons for her success. She believes in taking one step at a time and never taking “no” for an answer. When faced with challenges, she takes a moment to consider alternative strategies and then fearlessly resumes pursuing her goals. Yet, her upbringing and initially considering a career in health care were critical driving forces. Growing up near her tribe, she recalls that her family relied on Indian Health Service clinics for their medical needs. She remembers the visits as often arduous with long wait times that turned even the simplest of health issues into day-long affairs. Having this firsthand experience, Dr. Murie-Mazariegos recognized glaring disparities in the health care system. Her grandmother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis and other health issues amplified her frustration as she observed major concerns being disregarded.
Today, still close to and proud of her family, Dr. Murie-Mazariegos is married to Edgar Mazariegos Quiche, and they have two children. In her leisure time, she enjoys gardening and creative endeavors such as painting and drawing to complement scientific pursuits.