Assoc. Prof. Ifeyinwa Maryann Okafor

Dr. Ifeyinwa Maryann Okafor is an Associate Professor of Haematology at the Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, School of Health Science, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali. She was formerly with the Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion Science, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Calabar, Nigeria before joining University of Rwanda in 2025. . She holds BMLS, MSc. and a Ph.D. in Haematology from the University of Calabar, and a Certifificate in Leadership and Management in Health from University of Washington. She has done extensive research on nutritional anaemia, haemoglobinopathies, and haematological malignancies. Her research focuses on iron metabolism, anaemia, sickle cell disease, and molecular markers in haematological malignancies, with a growing interest in AI applications in medical diagnostics. With a career spanning both academic and clinical practice, she has worked as a Senior Medical Laboratory Scientist at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital before transitioning fully into academia. She has successfully supervised numerous undergraduates, 8 PGD, 9 master's, and co-supervised 7 Ph.D students while also contributing significantly to curriculum development and Medical Laboratory Science education in Nigeria. In University of Calabar, she served as Examination Officer 2015 -2019; Co-Ordinator of Haematology unit, pioneer HOD Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion Science and Faculty Post Graduate Chairman. Currently at the University of Rwanda, She member Departmental Examination Modulation Committee, Member Health Research and Innovation Action Committee (HIRTAC) and also heads the team that is working for the commencement of post graduate studies in Hamatology and Blood Transfusion in the Depatment of Biomedical Laboratory Science, School of Health Sciences, Colloege of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali. Dr. Okafor is a recipient of prestigious awards and grants, including the Princess of Wales International Bursary Award from the British Blood Transfusion Society, multiple British Society for Haematology Travel Grants, International Society for thrombosis and Hemostasis Travel grants, Society for Christian Scholar’s Research grant and TETFUND research and conference grants. She has published over 60 scientific articles in both local and in international peer-reviewed journals and is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria, HBTSSN, BBTS, British Society for Haematology, European Haematology Association and Ass. for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies, USA. Beyond academia, Dr. Okafor is deeply involved in community service and leadership, serving as Secretary of the Anglican Diocese of Calabar Education Board, a mentor for young scientists, participating in election collation and a volunteer in medical outreach programs. She is passionate about using research and education to drive innovation in healthcare. She also maintains an educational YouTube channel on haematology(https://youtube.com/@ifyokafor) and a blog (ScholarlyWoman) aimed at empowering women in academia. With her strong commitment to research, teaching, and mentorship, she continues to make significant contributions to haematology and blood transfusion science in Nigeria and beyond. She is married with Children.