Dr. Nadia Ikumi (née Chanzu) is the Lecturer: Pathology Research in the Division of Anatomical Pathology at the University of Cape Town. She oversees the division’s research portfolio, supporting undergraduate, postgraduate (including Master of Science, Master of Medicine, and Doctor of Philosophy), as well as postdoctoral research activities. She also serves as the Head of Unit: Pathology Learning Centre, a unique teaching and research resource housing over 4,000 pathology specimens, where she supports the integration of research into teaching.

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Nadia’s research focuses on the immunology of the human placenta and the impact of maternal infection on placenta-mediated diseases and maternal-fetal health. Her work builds on her postdoctoral training in placental immunology at the University of Cape Town and Harvard University. She is committed to training and mentoring students and postdoctoral fellows and plays an active role in transformation and equity at UCT. Nadia currently serves as Chairperson of the Division’s Transformation and Equity Committee.