Megan Balle, Ph.D.

Biography

Originally from West Chicago, Illinois (western suburbs), I pursued my undergraduate education at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where I received my Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences. Marquette was my first introduction to clinical anatomy and the gross anatomy lab, starting me on the path to where I am today. After graduating, I moved to Des Moines, Iowa, to complete my Master of Science in Anatomy at Des Moines University, which was where I fell in love with teaching anatomy. This was also my first experience at an osteopathic medical school, and a large reason why I applied for the position here at Marian. Towards the end of my master’s, I decided to pursue a Ph.D. in Anatomy Education, which led me to Indiana University School of Medicine’s Ph.D. in Anatomy and Cell Biology, Education Track program here in Indianapolis. As a recent graduate, I am excited to continue my academic career as a faculty member at Marian COM.

As a classically trained anatomist, I love the clinical applications of anatomy and integrate them into my lectures whenever possible. Teaching at the professional level was the reason I pursued a Ph.D., so that is where my professional passions lie. The gross anatomy lab is my happy place, and as you will learn, I love encouraging students to integrate information in the lab setting. Beyond teaching medical students, I love outreach to the community. As my undergraduate professor said, “anatomy, its where you live,” so I believe we should all learn about our own bodies. I do also conduct education research, primarily to learn about best practices in the classroom and how I can best help my students find success in medical anatomy.

On a personal note, my husband Eric and I met while we were at Marquette and he is now a PGY3/R2 radiology resident within the IU system, and my official source of imaging knowledge. We have a sheltie named Kaia and spend our free time either outside by the fire pit or at a local restaurant.