Elizabeth Conover

Elizabeth Conover is the Friedland Family Professor and an Associate Professor in the Department of Genetic Medicine at the University of Nebraska Medical Center's Munroe-Meyer Institute (MMI). She is a dual-certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (APRN) and Certified Genetic Counselor (CGC), providing clinical care at UNMC and affiliated Nebraska Medicine clinics in Omaha and outreach locations across the state.

Education:

• MSN: University of Nebraska Medical Center, 2000
• MS: University of Wisconsin, 1985
• BSN: Case Western Reserve University, 1978
• BS: Michigan State University, 1976

Her primary research and clinical focus is on teratology—particularly the safe use of medications during pregnancy and breastfeeding. She is a national expert in teratogen risk communication and leads the Nebraska Teratogen Information Service (Nebraska Mother to Baby). She has taught teratology at the graduate level for over 15 years, including at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and across multiple UNMC colleges.

Her recent publications highlight a consistent scholarly focus on medication safety in pregnancy, genetic syndromes, and effective risk communication. Her work bridges clinical practice, patient education, and public health policy, particularly in advising regulatory bodies like the FDA and CDC.

Scientific Awards:

• MMI Standout Award, 2018
• UNMC Silver U Award, 2015
• Jane Engelberg Memorial Fellowship Master Genetic Counselor, 2010
• Organization of Teratology Information Specialists Expert of the Month, 2010

Conover actively supervises students rotating through clinical genetics and cystic fibrosis clinics. She has held significant leadership roles in national organizations, including the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists and the National Society of Genetic Counselors. She serves as an expert consultant for the CDC’s "Treating for Two" initiative and as a member of the FDA Drug Safety and Risk Management Advisory Committee, reflecting her influence in shaping national guidelines on medication use in pregnancy.

She is affiliated with the Munroe-Meyer Institute’s Department of Genetic Medicine and contributes to interdisciplinary teaching in the UNMC College of Pharmacy, College of Nursing, College of Medicine, and University of Nebraska-Lincoln special education programs.