Prof Dr Solomon Ofori-Acquah
Dr. Solomon F. Ofori-Acquah is a hematology scientist and molecular geneticist, serving as the Calvin Smyre Endowed Chair, Georgia Research Alliance Eminent Scholar, and Director of the Georgia Solve Sickle Cell Initiative. His research focuses on the molecular pathogenesis of sickle cell disease, particularly acute chest syndrome. Dr. Ofori-Acquah has made significant contributions to understanding extracellular heme as a danger-associated molecular pattern in sickle cell disease and pioneered the development of the first transgenic mouse model of acute chest syndrome.
As the Founding Director of the West African Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC) and Principal Investigator of the Sickle Cell Disease Genomics Network of Africa (SickleGenAfrica), he has led the creation of the world’s largest research cohort of individuals with sickle cell disease. His functional genomics research has been key to understanding the role of a polymorphic cyclic AMP response element in the gamma globin gene for therapeutic HbF induction.
He holds joint appointments at the Emory University and Morehouse School of Medicine. He is also part of the H3Africa consortium. Since 2004, the NIH has funded his research through various grants, where he serves as Principal Investigator or Project Leader. With a strong track record in research, mentoring, and service, he is well-suited to lead genomic medicine research.