About Us
Merrill Epigenetics and Psychosocial Intervention (EPI) Lab
Hello, I am Dr. Sarah Merrill!
My research has broadly focused on the biological embedding of early social environments and experiences through epigenetic mechanisms – specifically, DNA methylation. I have placed a visual representation of my career timeline for you below. My work is guided by biopsychosocial perspective and interdisciplinary approaches to contribute to our foundational understanding of how social experiences may affect our biology and health in the short- and long-term, as well as how psychosocial interventions may enhance or mitigate these biological associations. To work towards this goal, my work specifically focuses on:
1. Social Epigenetics and Social Determinants of Health
2. Early Life Adversity and Psychosocial Intervention
3. Biomarker Characterization and Development
4. Methodological Robustness in Pediatric DNA Methylation Research
We are Recruiting!
Are you passionate about understanding how early adversity, biology, and the environment interact to shape behavior and health? Explore the intersection of genes and environment with us.
The EPI lab is recruiting graduate students for the next academic year. Please reach out if you are interested in joining the team!
Media Appearances
Check out Dr. Merrill’s interview on Global News below!
She has also appeared on BBC One, CTV News, and other podcasts:
BBC One’s The Why Factor
The Luminous Brain Podcast
CTV News
Scientific American, Science Quickly Podcast
Knowledge Snapshots
The infographics below summarize Dr. Merrill’s most recent publications. Click on the image to read more!
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
In the realm of epigenetics research, I am acutely aware of the historical injustices and biases that have shaped the scientific landscape. As in all genetics work, there is a great need for more diverse populations from across the globe to be represented in the data. While there are many un-ignorable barriers, it is also integral to the future of this research that a wider swath of the human experience is represented in epigenetics research. With cultural humility as my compass, I attempt to navigate the nuanced landscape of epigenetics research with anti-racist thinking, while actively challenging neocolonial structures embedded within discussions of the contributions of genetic ancestry and race to epigenetic patterns – a unique challenge given their dual sensitivity to both genes and the environment.
I ardently believe in dismantling neocolonial structures that perpetuate inequalities and working towards a just, inclusive, and compassionate academic landscape. The intersections of my identities further inspire me to be an advocate for marginalized communities, reaffirming my commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). I am deeply excited about the potential to contribute to this academic community, to champion DEI, and to foster environments that empower individuals who have experienced displacement and marginalization. I look forward to collaborating with like-minded colleagues to build a brighter, more equitable future through the power of words, adaptation, and re-adaptation.
Land Acknowledgement
Our lab acknowledges that the land we live, work, learn, and commune on is the original homelands of the Pennacook communities with the Pawtucket Village and Wamesit Village. We acknowledge the painful history of genocide and forced removal from this territory, and we honor and respect the many diverse Indigenous peoples still connected to this land on which we gather.
