The University of Iowa is thrilled to announce that Dr. Azeez Butali, professor of oral pathology, radiology, and medicine in the UI College of Dentistry, has been awarded a Fulbright to further his groundbreaking work in human genetics. As part of this prestigious international exchange, Dr. Butali will travel to Nigeria to help develop an interdisciplinary graduate program in human genetics and conduct research on incidental actionable variants.
“I am so excited to have the opportunity to do this work at the University of Lagos in Nigeria,” said Dr. Butali. “In addition to building research infrastructure around genetics and capacity over the last 20 years in Africa and the U.S., this opportunity allows me to help develop the first interdisciplinary human genetics graduate program in Nigeria.”
Dr. Butali’s lab focuses on the genetics and genomics of cleft lip and palate in African populations. This Fulbright experience will not only strengthen existing collaborations but also provide access to new data that could accelerate discoveries in personalized medicine.
He encourages his fellow UI faculty to explore what Fulbright has to offer: “It’s a chance to share your expertise with colleagues from around the world and build new relationships that can have immense positive impacts on your work.”
The traditional Fulbright Scholar Program sends more than 800 U.S. faculty and professionals abroad each year. Awardees lecture and conduct research in a wide variety of academic and professional fields.
University faculty members at all stages of their careers can apply to become Fulbright Scholars or Fulbright Specialists. Grant recipients can teach, do research abroad, or a combination of both for flexible time periods ranging from two to six weeks to a semester or an entire academic year.
Learn more about faculty Fulbright opportunities at the University of Iowa
International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement. IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.