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Chidi Akusobi

MD/PhD Candidate @ Harvard Medical School

Chidi Akusobi is an accomplished physician-scientist who completed his MD-PhD program at Harvard University.12 He earned his MD from Harvard Medical School and his PhD in Infectious Disease from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, graduating in 2022.12

Background and Education

Akusobi grew up in the Bronx, New York, as the child of Nigerian immigrant parents who worked as nurses.1 His early interest in science was nurtured through the Prep for Prep program, which led to his admission to the Horace Mann School.16 He went on to study evolutionary biology at Yale University, followed by earning a master of philosophy research degree at the University of Cambridge as a Gates Scholar.1

Research and Achievements

During his PhD, Akusobi worked in Eric Rubin's lab at Harvard Chan School, focusing on Mycobacterium abcessus.1 His research identified essential genes in this bacterium, potentially opening new avenues for antibiotic development.1 Akusobi's work has been supported by prestigious fellowships, including the Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowship and an NIH F31 Fellowship.13

Advocacy and Mentorship

Throughout his academic journey, Akusobi has been committed to mentoring and supporting students of color in science and medicine.1 He has taken leadership roles in organizations like WhiteCoat4BlackLives and the Student National Medical Association to help build a pipeline for underrepresented minority students in these fields.1

Current Position

As of February 2025, Akusobi is likely completing his residency in internal medicine, which he began after graduating from Harvard in 2022.56

Personal Interests

Outside of his medical and scientific pursuits, Akusobi enjoys creative writing and writing reviews.4 He views his career success not only in terms of his own achievements but also in his ability to increase diversity in his field.1

Highlights

Nov 22 · hsph.harvard.edu
Sharing a lifelong interest in science
May 1 · pdsoros.org
Chidiebere Akusobi
Chidiebere Akusobi
May 27 · HSPH News
Sharing a lifelong interest in science | News | Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health - HSPH News

Related Questions

What inspired Chidi Akusobi to pursue an MD-PhD at Harvard?
How did Chidi Akusobi's upbringing in the Bronx influence his career choices?
What are some of the key findings from Chidi Akusobi's research on Mycobacterium abscessus?
How has Chidi Akusobi contributed to the WhiteCoat4BlackLives movement?
What new skills has Chidi Akusobi learned during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Chidi Akusobi
Chidi Akusobi, photo 1
Chidi Akusobi, photo 2
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Location

Boston, Massachusetts