Education

Abraham Badu-Tawiah’s educational journey reflects his dedication to chemistry and scientific excellence. He earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Chemistry from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana, where he was mentored by esteemed professors. Badu-Tawiah further pursued a Master’s degree in Chemistry at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, culminating in a PhD from Purdue University under the guidance of Professor R. Graham Cooks. His rigorous training continued with a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard University, where he worked with Professor George M. Whitesides. This impressive educational background has equipped him with a strong foundation in analytical chemistry, allowing him to make significant contributions to the field through innovative research and development.

Professional Experience

Abraham Badu-Tawiah’s professional trajectory is marked by a series of significant academic appointments at The Ohio State University. He began his career as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and has since progressed through the ranks to his current role as a Fox Professor. His interdisciplinary collaboration spans various departments, including Microbial Infection and Immunity and Internal Medicine, reflecting his commitment to bridging chemistry with healthcare. Badu-Tawiah has also served as an adjunct faculty member in multiple capacities, enhancing educational opportunities across disciplines. His involvement in initiatives at the Comprehensive Cancer Center exemplifies his dedication to integrating research with real-world health challenges. Through his extensive professional experience, Badu-Tawiah has established himself as a leader in analytical chemistry and mass spectrometry.

Research Interests

Abraham Badu-Tawiah’s research interests lie at the intersection of analytical chemistry and healthcare, focusing on innovative methods to improve disease diagnosis, particularly in underserved populations. His current projects explore diverse areas, including panoptic mass spectrometry, accelerated droplet chemistry, and mass spectrometry-based immunoassays. Badu-Tawiah is particularly interested in developing portable, paper-based microfluidic devices that allow for sensitive and affordable disease detection. His work on dry-state microsampling platforms aims to revolutionize blood sampling methods, making them more accessible and practical for use in remote areas. Additionally, Badu-Tawiah is passionate about outreach initiatives that support minorities in STEM, fostering inclusivity and encouraging future generations to pursue careers in science. Overall, his research is driven by a commitment to societal impact and advancing scientific knowledge.

Research Skills

Abraham Badu-Tawiah possesses a diverse range of research skills that underpin his contributions to analytical chemistry. His expertise in mass spectrometry enables him to develop innovative analytical techniques for complex biological samples. Badu-Tawiah is proficient in microfluidics, which he applies to create novel platforms for disease diagnosis and analysis. His work involves designing and executing experiments, interpreting complex data, and optimizing methodologies for real-world applications. Furthermore, he excels in interdisciplinary collaboration, working alongside experts from various fields to enhance the impact of his research. His experience in securing significant funding from organizations such as the NIH and NSF showcases his ability to articulate and promote research ideas effectively. Badu-Tawiah’s skills in education and mentorship also play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of scientists.

Awards and Honors

Abraham Badu-Tawiah’s exceptional contributions to the field of analytical chemistry have earned him numerous prestigious awards and recognitions. In 2021, he was honored as the Early Career Innovator of the Year at The Ohio State University, highlighting his impactful research. His achievements include receiving the Sloan Fellowship and the NIH R35 MIRA Award for New Investigators, demonstrating his promise in advancing scientific knowledge. Badu-Tawiah has also been recognized with the ACS Arthur F. Findeis Award for Achievements by a Young Analytical Scientist and the Eli Lilly Young Investigator Award. His selection as an Emerging Investigator by esteemed journals underscores his influence in the scientific community. Collectively, these accolades reflect Badu-Tawiah’s dedication to research excellence and his commitment to addressing pressing health challenges through innovative scientific approaches.