Meghan Starolis MS, PhD, HCLD (ABB) is the National Science Director of Infectious Diseases at the Quest Diagnostics’ Nichols Institute. She also oversees the Molecular Infectious Diseases laboratory. Dr Starolis plays a critical role in the strategic planning of diagnostic solutions for infectious diseases at Quest Diagnostics. She serves as a subject matter expert in key initiatives across the Clinical, Medical Affairs, and Research & Development (R&D) departments. Dr Starolis also contributes to the development of new assays, as well as the improvement of existing assays for chronic viral, respiratory, tick-borne, sexually transmitted, and gastrointestinal diseases.
Dr Starolis completed a Bachelor of Science in biological sciences with a concentration in microbiology at the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. She then earned a master’s degree from George Mason University in biodefense, where she focused on naturally emerging infectious diseases and bioweapons. Dr Starolis also pursued a PhD in microbiology and infectious diseases from George Mason University. While there, her research interests revolved around biothreat pathogens, and biofilm formation and quorum sensing in Francisella tularensis.
Dr Starolis’ current research interests are centered around emerging infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and improvement of diagnostic algorithms. Her recent work has been published in Journal of Clinical Virology and Pediatrics.
Dr Starolis currently serves on the Editorial Board of the Microbiology Spectrum Journal, and reviews for Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology Journal, and the Journal of Clinical Virology. She has been the recipient of various awards in her field. For 2 consecutive years in 2020 and 2021, Dr Starolis received the Empowering Better Health Award at Quest Diagnostics for her efforts in several Covid-19 initiatives and launches.
Dr Starolis is board-certified by the American Board of Bioanalysis (ABB). She is a member of several societies, including the Pan American Society for Clinical Virology (PASCV), American Society for Microbiology (ASM), Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP), and American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB). She is an elected Council Member for the PASCV and committee chair for the Clinical Practice and Public Policy committee.
