Megan Bliss

Don't be intimidated by MIT or think that you don't belong here because you don't have a technical background.

When did you join the Laboratory, and what made you decide to pursue a career here?

I joined the Lab in September 2022 and was drawn to the scope of work and the possibility that I could contribute in some way. Having previously worked on the Tufts Medical Center campus, I loved the idea of being in an educational environment that fosters growth and innovation.

What was your career path leading up to the Laboratory?

I was the senior operations associate at a Tufts University biotech incubator in Boston. Similar to my current role at the Lab, I was supporting the day-to-day operations of a group of talented minds exploring exciting science. Prior to biotech, I worked in veterinary medicine for many years as an administrative supervisor and pet loss counselor. Learning to interact with a multitude of people with different communication styles in high-stakes situations has been one of my greatest lessons.

What advice would you offer to someone looking to enter your field?

Take the leap! Don’t be intimidated by MIT or think that you don't belong here because you don't have a technical background. Work history and life experience can bring far more to the table than you might expect. Every position at the Lab is important and necessary, and your talent could be the missing piece that makes a significant contribution.

Where have you traveled and/or would like to travel?

I have been lucky enough to travel to the United Kingdom and Ireland, Japan, Greece, Mexico, Jamaica, and most recently to Aruba for my honeymoon. I hope to eventually travel to New Zealand to visit the Shire and to see Hobbits in their natural habitat…

What are you passionate about?

I am a graduate of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program through the University of Massachusetts Memorial Medical Center and have been involved in mindful meditation practices for more than 15 years. During the 2020 quarantine, I led a weekly virtual meditation group and was a guest speaker in Boston for a work-life balance webinar.

What are some of your hobbies?

Singing, playing guitar, and writing and performing music have been essential in my life. I enjoy being outside in the sun, spending time by the water, seeing live music, and being surrounded by animals; if all these things can happen at once, then it's a very good day!