Uzezi Okinedo
About Uzezi Okinedo
Uzezi Okinedo is a Teaching Assistant and Research Assistant at the University of Massachusetts Boston, specializing in plant genomics and evolutionary biology. She holds a Ph.D. in Molecular, Cellular, and Organismal Biology and has a strong background in genetics and cell biology from her studies at the University of Lagos.
Work at UMass Boston
Uzezi Okinedo has been employed at the University of Massachusetts Boston since 2021, serving as a Teaching Assistant and Research Assistant. In her role, she has contributed to various biology courses and laboratory sessions, focusing on genetics, molecular biology, and cell biology. Her research involves investigating the genetic architecture and local adaptation of silverleaf sunflowers and cultivated Asian rice, utilizing computational genomics and quantitative phenotyping tools. This position has allowed her to mentor undergraduate students and enhance their understanding of complex biological concepts.
Education and Expertise
Uzezi Okinedo holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Cell Biology and Genetics from the University of Lagos, which she completed from 2011 to 2015. She furthered her education with a Master of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology from the same institution, graduating in 2019. Currently, she is pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular, Cellular, and Organismal Biology at UMass Boston, expected to complete in 2025. Her academic background has equipped her with strong expertise in plant genomics and evolutionary biology.
Background
Uzezi Okinedo began her educational journey at Radiance High School in Festac Town, Lagos, where she completed her WASSCE from 2004 to 2010. Following her secondary education, she attended the University of Lagos, where she earned her undergraduate and master's degrees. Her early career included a position as a Student Intern at APIN Public Health Initiatives, where she gained practical experience in the field of health and biology. She later served as a Graduate Assistant at the University of Lagos from 2018 to 2020 before transitioning to her current roles in the United States.
Research Focus
Uzezi Okinedo's research primarily focuses on understanding genetic and environmental factors that influence seed traits, reproductive performance, and phenotypic plasticity in crops. Her dissertation work aims to reveal insights into how genetic variation affects complex traits and how natural selection drives adaptation in diverse plant species. This research is complemented by her investigations into the genetic architecture of silverleaf sunflowers and cultivated Asian rice, showcasing her commitment to advancing knowledge in plant biology.
Teaching and Mentoring
Uzezi Okinedo is passionate about teaching and mentoring undergraduate students in various biology courses and labs. Her experience as a Teaching Assistant has allowed her to guide students through complex topics in genetics, molecular biology, and cell biology. She emphasizes the importance of understanding genetic variation and its implications for adaptation in plant species, fostering a supportive learning environment that encourages student engagement and curiosity in the biological sciences.