Dr Chinedu Okeke, University of Abuja, Nigeria
Dr. Chinedu Okeke is a dedicated Medical Laboratory Scientist with over two decades of impactful contributions in haematology and medical microbiology 🧪🧫. He has advanced academic training from prestigious institutions in Nigeria and Brazil, including a specialized MSc in Haemoglobinopathies from the University of Campinas 🇧🇷. His career has been centered around laboratory diagnostics, sickle cell disease research, and public health engagement ❤️🔬. From Sure Medical Laboratory to his current role as Assistant Chief Medical Laboratory Scientist at the University of Abuja 🏥, he has combined laboratory excellence with research innovation. Dr. Okeke has presented internationally, received competitive fellowships, and actively participates in professional societies. His scholarly works have shaped understanding in sickle cell pathophysiology, genetic polymorphisms, and diagnostic tools. With a profound sense of service and a passion for discovery, Dr. Okeke stands as a committed advocate for advancing laboratory medicine across Africa 🌍📚.
Publication Profile
Scopus
Education
Dr. Okeke’s academic journey began with an Associate Diploma in Haematology and Blood Group Serology (2000) from the Federal School of Medical Laboratory, Jos 🧫🩸. He pursued further studies at The University of Technology, Akure, earning a Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Microbiology in 2010 🧬. His academic ambition led him to complete a Master’s Degree in Medical Microbiology at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka in 2014 🔬📘. With a focus on advancing knowledge in genetic blood disorders, he earned a second MSc in Haemoglobinopathies from the University of Campinas in Brazil (2018), gaining international exposure to cutting-edge research on sickle cell anaemia 🌎💉. This unique blend of local and international education has equipped him with broad expertise in laboratory science, infectious disease diagnostics, and molecular genetics. His educational foundation is a testament to his commitment to excellence in medical laboratory research and practice 🎓🔍.
Experience
Dr. Okeke began his career as a Medical Laboratory Scientist at Sure Medical Laboratory, Akure (2002–2008), where he honed his skills in diagnostic haematology and clinical microbiology 🧫🧑🔬. He then joined the University of Abuja as a Senior Medical Laboratory Scientist (2008–2012), gaining leadership responsibilities and initiating research collaborations 🏥🔬. Since 2012, he has served as Assistant Chief Medical Laboratory Scientist at the same university, contributing significantly to diagnostic service delivery, mentoring junior scientists, and overseeing specialized testing units 💡👨🏫. Throughout his roles, he has integrated research and clinical service, notably in sickle cell diagnostics and genetic polymorphism studies. Dr. Okeke also actively presents at international symposia and contributes to scientific publications, bridging laboratory practice with academic innovation 🌍📈. His hands-on experience and scientific insight make him a valuable asset to Nigeria’s medical laboratory science landscape and global haematology research.
Awards and Honors
Dr. Chinedu Okeke has been recognized for his academic and scientific excellence across borders 🌟📜. In 2013, he was awarded a prestigious scholarship by the Fiocruz Foundation in Bahia, Brazil—a recognition of his potential in molecular haematology and sickle cell research 🌎🔬. His poster presentations at major scientific conferences such as the Biochemical Symposium at UNIFESP (2017) and the African Society of Laboratory Medicine (ASLM) Conference (2018) further demonstrate his dedication to knowledge dissemination and international collaboration 🎤📊. As an active member of key professional bodies—including the Medical Laboratory Science Association of Nigeria (2000), Entomology Society of Nigeria (2013), Nigerian Red Cross Society (2018), and the Society for Sickle Cell Support Nigeria (2018)—he exemplifies a spirit of scientific service and humanitarian commitment ❤️🏥. His recognitions underscore his relentless pursuit of excellence in research and laboratory practice 🏆🧠.
Research Focus
Dr. Chinedu Okeke’s research centers on haemoglobinopathies, particularly sickle cell disease, exploring its clinical presentation, genetic polymorphisms, and biomarker development for improved diagnosis and patient care 🧬💉. He has conducted studies on foetal hemoglobin levels, acute painful episodes, and renal function markers in sickle cell patients, aiming to better understand disease progression and personalize treatments 💊🧪. His work extends to evaluating point-of-care diagnostic devices, such as SickleSCAN™, facilitating early and efficient screening in resource-limited settings 🧫📲. Dr. Okeke is also investigating GT-repeat polymorphisms in the Heme Oxygenase-1 gene and its impact on oxidative stress responses among patients in Brazil and Nigeria 🌍🧠. His commitment to translational science is evident in his collaborations with institutions like University of Campinas and Fiocruz Foundation. By integrating genetics, haematology, and public health, his research strives to reduce the burden of sickle cell anaemia in sub-Saharan Africa and beyond 💓🌐.
Publication Top Notes
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“Preliminary Evaluation of a point of care Testing Device (SickleSCAN™) in Screening for Sickle Cell Disease” 🧪🩸
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“Evaluation of Acute Painful Episodes with Foetal Hemoglobin Level and Other Haematological Parameters in Sickle Cell Patients in Abuja, Nigeria” 📊🧬
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“A Multi-centre Survey of Acceptability of Newborn Screening for Sickle Cell Disease in Nigeria”
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“Polymorphisms in Heme Oxygenase-1 and Bone Morphogenetic Protein Receptor 1 Genes and Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate in Brazilian Sickle Cell Anaemia Patients” 🔬🧠