
Undergrad: Makerere University
Graduate School: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Dr. Akwii has built a strong scientific foundation through rigorous academic training and industry research, contributing to complex, cross-functional projects and authoring peer-reviewed scientific publications. Her work reflects strong scientific judgment, analytical rigor, and the ability to translate research questions into actionable insights across different stages of development. Her research has been published in numerous journals, including the Journal of Controlled Release, the International Journal of Cancer, and the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics.
In parallel with her professional research career, Dr. Akwii has significant experience mentoring students and early-career researchers. She has served as a research mentor for undergraduate students, PharmD students, and high school seniors interested in research. Dr. Akwii has served as Lead Researcher on projects in pharmaceutical roles, including rare genetic disease and immunology, and has been a Lead Author on multiple manuscripts.
Dr. Akwii is passionate about teaching others how to think independently through the research process, from formulating meaningful questions and designing feasible studies to interpreting results and communicating findings clearly. She has supported students conducting research spanning multiple fields, including biochemistry, biomedical engineering, cancer/tumor biology, genomics, immunology, infectious disease, neuroscience, public health, and more. Students Dr. Akwii has supported throughout the research process have been accepted to Purdue University, Boston University, the University of Massachusetts Boston, and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.
As a mentor, Dr. Akwii focuses on helping students develop confidence, intellectual ownership, and research maturity. Her goal is not just to help students complete a project, but to equip them with the skills and mindset to become independent thinkers and researchers who can make a meaningful impact.