Kofi Adasi

About me

I was born/grew up in: Kumasi, Ashanti, Ghana

I now live in: Edmonton, AB, Canada

I completed my training/education at: Faculty of Medicine, University of Liverpool, United Kingdom

What I do at work

During the week I teach Molecular Cell Biology and Human Anatomy & Physiology and conduct laboratory sessions. I use microscopes, and kit for extracting DNA from different living things. My problem-solving activities focus primarily on studying the consequences of changes in the DNA structure. I make many important decisions each day, for example, "How can instructions be presented in a way to motivate students to enjoy learning something that may seem difficult to understand?" I have rich background in Molecular Biology, Genetics and Biochemistry training.

I spent part of my student years at the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) in Atlanta, GA as well as the South African Institute of Medical Research in Johannesburg, South Africa. I enjoy sharing current knowledge in science, other than my field of expertise, in weekly journal club meetings. I review literature to find gaps in knowledge, then write a memo for review and discussion. If good ideas are generated, I try to form a team to write a research proposal and seek grants to research new perspectives and fill the gaps in scientific knowledge. I also use specialized tools and techniques to extract and manipulate DNA and related molecules. I am a Molecular Biologist, but also use biotechnology tools to analyze research data.

My career path is

I obtained a PhD from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom.

I am motivated by

What makes me excited at work is when I discover something new and interesting The most interesting aspect of my career is meeting with colleagues from around the world in conferences and sharing research findings. Although this may be very daunting, especially when one's research is questioned. However, meetings and conferences contribute immensely to improving research. These are also moments to get out of the laboratory and classroom to enjoy the natural environment in different countries, towns and cities.

How I affect peoples’ lives

My job seeks to find novel tools for solving some of life's most challenging issues, from health to the environment, using molecular biology tools and techniques. Teaching and doing research really matters. I do not just contribute to knowledge that could improve life, but also training others to come to appreciation of the vast field of discovery is indeed fulfilling and rewarding. The immediate impact of the things I do is the dramatic change in behavior of my students just a few weeks after being in my class. In the long term, my research focus will alleviate suffering, create awareness and contribute to knowledge.

Outside of work I

I like fishing and walking in the parks.

My advice to others

Becoming a Molecular Biologist requires commitment and zeal. However, the revelations are rewarding.