Pooja Doshi

Tell us about yourself.

I’m Pooja Doshi, a DrPH candidate at Drexel University with a focus on advancing gender-responsive monitoring and evaluation in school-based vision screenings. I’m also the Senior Managing Director at the SIR Foundation, where I help drive research initiatives that bridge clinical innovation and public health impact. Outside of work, I enjoy exploring Philadelphia with my dog, playing trivia with friends, and traveling.

Why did you pursue a DrPH?

I pursued a DrPH because I am deeply passionate about being an advocate for equitable access to eye care services, especially for children. Too often, vision health is overlooked in public health, despite its profound impact on learning and quality of life. My doctoral training allows me to elevate this issue, using research and leadership to drive systemic change. Ultimately, I aspire to bring this work to the global stage, with the goal of one day contributing to the World Health Organization’s efforts to ensure that eye care is recognized as a fundamental right for all.

What are you currently excited about in your job?

I’m excited about building partnerships that bring together researchers, clinicians, and communities. These collaborations push forward equity-centered innovations in public health and create real opportunities to improve access to care.

If you could write a book about your life, what would the title be and why?

“Through a Different Lens” — because my life and career have been about seeing health equity challenges from new perspectives, and reframing how systems can respond more inclusively.

What is something interesting about you that we should know?

I’ve traveled to more than 20 countries, and I make it a point to explore local health systems wherever I go. It fuels my curiosity about global health and keeps me inspired about the different ways communities approach care and wellness.