In this inspiring episode of Women Professors of Ophthalmology: Journey Into Academia, Dr. Shannon Merbs shares her extraordinary two-decade journey leading international research partnerships to combat trachoma, the world's leading infectious cause of blindness. What began with a simple knock on her office door evolved into groundbreaking surgical innovation, NIH-funded clinical trials in Tanzania, and collaborations spanning ministries of health, NGOs, epidemiologists, and global health organizations.

Dr. Merbs offers a candid look at the realities of conducting surgical trials in resource-limited settings, from language barriers and transportation challenges to developing new surgical techniques and training local surgical technicians. She discusses the importance of adaptability, creativity, and interdisciplinary collaboration while balancing scientific rigor with real-world conditions in some of the world's most underserved regions.

Listeners will gain valuable insight into global ophthalmology research, innovation in patient care, and the power of saying "yes" to unexpected opportunities. This episode is a compelling reminder that impactful careers are often built by embracing uncertainty, following curiosity, and remaining open to where medicine can lead.

Topics Covered:

• Global ophthalmology and trachoma research

• Building international clinical trial partnerships

• Surgical innovation in resource-limited settings

• NIH-funded research in Tanzania

• Challenges of global health collaboration

• Lessons in leadership, adaptability, and mentorship