Emilie Blair

My name is Emilie Blair, and I’m originally from Westland, MI. I graduated from the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor in 2020 with a degree in Sociology of Health and Medicine. During that time, I began working with the Cognitive Health Research Program at Michigan Medicine, which has helped me to foster an interest in neurology and neurodegenerative disease. This role has evolved to primary leadership of two NIH-funded R01 studies centered on Alzheimer’s disease and related cognitive impairment, and another on patient experiences after ischemic stroke and severe acute brain injury.

My research experience has allowed me a deep dive into patient values, lived experience, and treatment decision-making. I have come to understand the importance of the intersection between scientific expertise and psychosocial factors that impact patients. This has given me immense perspective that has influenced my future career goals and passion for genetic counseling.

In my free time, I enjoy walking my golden retriever, lifting weights in the gym, and traveling to national parks for backcountry hiking. I love to cook and am always looking for an opportunity to host friends and family. I’m looking forward to sharing that hobby with my cohort and embracing all the opportunities I have to learn with them throughout the MSGC program.