Merrick Schaefer

Merrick Schaefer is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in digital health, international development, and technology innovation.

Currently serving as the Senior Digital Health Advisor at USAID's Center for Innovation and Impact, Merrick plays a crucial role in operationalizing the Agency's Digital Health Vision and overseeing the Digital Square mechanism.

Prior to his current role, Merrick led the Development Informatics team at USAID, contributing significantly to utilizing technology for disaster response and recovery, as well as driving institutional change initiatives focused on enhancing technology utilization within programs.

His extensive experience includes serving as a Senior Innovation Specialist at the World Bank and an mHealth Specialist at UNICEF, where he was part of the founding UNICEF Innovation Team.

Merrick's work encompasses strategic program design, software development management, program implementation in the field, and the monitoring & evaluation of ICT4D projects, highlighting his expertise in the intersection of technology and international development.

Notable projects in Merrick's career include managing the development of the RapidSMS software framework, leading the nationally scaled mHealth program Programme Mwana in Zambia, and co-drafting the Principles of Digital Development.

With a background that dates back to working as a web developer in 1995, Merrick has witnessed the evolution of the World Wide Web and has experience in developing enterprise-level systems, consulting with Accenture, and creating websites for various clients through his consultancy.

Merrick holds a B.A. in Medical Ethics from the University of Chicago, reflecting his academic foundation in ethical considerations within the field.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Merrick is an accomplished rock climber with 26 years of experience, exploring cliffs in different parts of the world.