Competitive research programs
From priority setting to funded work.
These were SHIC programs conducted with its board, staff, reviewers, funding partners, and investigators during Megan's leadership. The figures describe SHIC's organizational results.
Expert review and board approval focused investment on priority needs, scientific merit, efficient use of funds, and value to pork producers.
SHIC · 2024 – 2026
H5N1 Risk to Swine
A $4 million research program developed with the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research and Pork Checkoff. Its initial RFP drew 51 proposals from 35 institutions in six countries. Following competitive review by influenza and swine-industry experts, 10 projects received $2.2 million in 2025 to address vaccine development, clinical signs, mammary transmission, surveillance, introduction risks, and biosecurity practices. Funding recommendations prioritized timely research to address emerging disease threat.
Role: rapid emerging disease program creation, multispecies priority input, executive program leadership, research funding oversight
SHIC · 2024 – 2025
Annual Plan of Work Research RFP
Stakeholder surveys, listening sessions, working group prioritization, budget planning, and board approval shaped the research agenda. The RFP received 57 proposals from 19 institutions, alongside seven additional proposals submitted through the general rolling call during the year. Across the Plan of Work program, 21 projects received $2.1 million in 2025, including six with a 1:1 funding match from FFAR. Competitive review aligned funding with stakeholder priorities and potential impact.
Role: annual strategic planning process, topic prioritization, proposal solicitation, executive program leadership, research funding oversight
SHIC · 2022 – 2025
Wean-to-Harvest Biosecurity Research Program
SHIC, FFAR, and Pork Checkoff combined resources for on-farm and transportation biosecurity research. The first RFP received 41 proposals; 10 projects were selected for approximately $1 million in initial funding. Across subsequent RFP rounds and the rolling call, the program ultimately awarded $2.5 million to 24 projects. Industry task forces evaluated scientific design, feasibility, cost, and producer value to identify practical biosecurity solutions.
Role: co-funding partnership development, collaborative priority identification, executive program leadership, research funding oversight