Alison El Ayadi, ScD, MPH

Alison El Ayadi, ScD, MPH, is Professor in the Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences and Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the University of California, San Francisco. A s a social epidemiologist, her scholarship examines how structural inequalities, gender dynamics, and health system performance shape maternal health outcomes globally. Her work is grounded in collaborative partnerships aimed at advancing equitable, high-quality care during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

Dr. El Ayadi leads and collaborates on multi-country research focused on the determinants of maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidities, disparities in access to quality perinatal care, and the health consequences of gender inequality. As Principal Investigator and co-Investigator on NIH- and foundation-funded studies in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, she works closely with interdisciplinary teams of clinicians, epidemiologists, social scientists, ministries of health, and local research institutions to design and implement studies that are responsive to local priorities. Her research on female genital fistula, respectful maternity care, and health system strengthening integrates social epidemiology, implementation science, and mixed-methods approaches to generate policy-relevant evidence that supports sustainable improvements in maternal health systems.

In addition to her research leadership, Dr. El Ayadi co-directs the Bixby Early Career Investigators Group, where she fosters a collaborative community of emerging scholars in reproductive and maternal health research. She mentors undergraduate, graduate, medical, and postdoctoral trainees, as well as junior faculty, supporting their development as independent, equity-focused investigators. An alumna of the WomenLiftHealth Leadership Journey for mid-career global health professionals, she is committed to advancing inclusive leadership and strengthening capacity in global health research.

Across her research, mentorship, and institutional roles, Dr. El Ayadi prioritizes partnership, capacity strengthening, and co-creation of knowledge. She welcomes students and trainees interested in collaborative, equity-focused scholarship in global maternal health, social epidemiology, and mixed-methods research.