DR. MARGARET G. FILBERT
Researcher, Role Model, Scientific Advisor

N. H. Johnson
Fairfax VA 22030
Nathan.Johnson@dtra.mil

In the annals of chemical and biological defense, many prominent figures are credited for their invaluable contributions to the field. There may not be an individual, however, who has persistently and positively impacted chemical and biological defense as Dr. Margaret G. Filbert. While many scientists are fortunate enough to participate in important experiments or collaborate with imminent colleagues, it is rare for one to actually be imbedded into six decades of history.

Dr. Filbert was born in Washingtons Crossing in New Jersey. Her father moved frequently with his job as a commercial artist, so Dr. Filbert experienced a transient childhood. Her family settled in the Washington DC area and during this midst of the second World War, she enrolled at the University of Maryland with aspirations of becoming a physician. Dr. Filbert was excited and thoroughly engaged by the rigorous curriculum. She was one of six female students in the zoology department. During this time, she met her future husband while working in the college dining hall. They were married in 1948. During her undergraduate studies, Dr. Filbert developed a love for scientific inquisition. After graduating in 1947, she changed her career ambitions to one of science rather than clinical medicine. Her desire to have both a family and career, along with her love for science, led her to graduate school. While in graduate school, Dr. Filbert was introduced to and associated with many of the veterans returning to college after the war where she learned to appreciate and value the sacrifices of military service. Thus, the foundations of a possible future of scientific support for the warfighter were laid. In 1949, Dr. Filbert graduated with a MS in physiology from the University of Maryland – College Park. In 1950, Dr. Filbert became aware of an employment opportunity at the current USAMRICD. The facility had a need for a histology technician. During this time, there was rapid expansion at USAMRICD as researchers rushed to characterize the new class of chemical warfare agents generically known as nerve agents. USAMRICD was known for attracting the most promising scientists and working at USAMRICD was considered an honor. After an initial interview with a young military officer, Dr. Filbert was considered too valuable for the histology position. She was introduced to Dr. John Clements who was chief of clinical investigations. He told Dr. Filbert to think about the pathophysiology of pulmonary edema and come back in one week and they would talk about it. For a recent graduate and new mother, this was quite a question. The thoughts raced through her mind. What did he mean? What would he ask her when she returned? The following week resulted in a crash course in pulmonary edema for Dr. Filbert. Upon her return a week later, the subject of pulmonary edema never came up! But, she had the job!

There were many memorable scientists that Dr. Filbert worked with in the “early days”. One was Dr. Clements. Another was her Division Chief, Dr. Harold Himwich, the noted neurologist. Her research experiences were varied early on in her career as research associates were encouraged to experience variety and find their own niche. In this environment, Dr. Filbert found great joy in interacting with many of the officers assigned to USAMRICD. Over the next three decades, she contributed greatly to the progress by the team at USAMRICD. During these years at USAMRICD, Dr. Filbert sometimes regretted not having a terminal degree. However, balancing a family with career made such thoughts transient and fanciful. However, during the late 70s, things changed. Dr. Filbert became aware of a program the USA had for developing the workforce by which employees could return to school full time. Dr. Filbert considered Dr. Clarence Broomfield to be her mentor and his encouragement led her to apply for the long term training. To her delight, she was accepted into the program. While she could attend any University in the country, proximity to family and the quality of education led her to the University of Maryland – Baltimore County (UMBC).

Starting a Ph.D. program in your late 50s would be considered unconventional by most. Sitting in a classroom for the first time in almost 30 years was initially eye opening for her, but Dr. Filbert quickly adjusted and thrived in the academic environment. She studied under Dr. Phillip Sokolove and was awarded the Ph.D. in 1984. Dr. Filbert credited her pursuit and completion of her Ph.D. with giving her more credibility with her interactions with peers.

Dr. Filbert continues to remain busy. In addition to her busy work schedule as the Director of the Consultative Services, she still loves traveling, gardening, and combines both loves with trips sponsored by the American Horticulture Society. Although a very humble scientist, Dr. Filbert is most proud of her leadership in the neuroprotectant program in the late 1990s. Dr. Filberts advice for the current and future generations of scientists are to always look to continue growing in these exciting time and to persevere when roadblocks appear. For Dr. Filbert, initiative is the key. She encourages senior scientists to actively pursue mentorship of junior scientists within USAMRICD. Passing on knowledge of the great history of USAMRICD is also important to Dr. Filbert. She has recently instituted a history of chemical defense series at USAMRICD. Dr. Filbert entered the scientific arena at a time where it was difficult for a female to compete on an equal basis. Many times, she was asked why she did not want to “stay at home”. The answer has come from her productive six decades of work. Dr. Filbert credits many for her success. However, she credits her family most of all. Dr. Filbert was truly a pioneer and role model for future generations. Dr. Filbert’s contributions will be felt for many generations to come.