Simpson Lab Welcomes Research Scientist Afua Tiwaa

The Division of Dermatology is excited to welcome Afua Tiwaa (she, her) to our division as a Research Scientist in the Simpson Lab, led by Principal Investigator and Assistant Professor Dr. Cory Simpson. Afua officially joined the Simpson Lab on April 1, 2022. The Simpson Lab is one of three research labs in the Division of Dermatology and part of the Institute for Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine at the University of Washington, a cohort of collaborative research labs located at UW Medicine’s research complex in Seattle’s South Lake Union (SLU) medical/tech hub.

Afua graduated from the University of Washington Bothell in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, and a minor in Neuroscience. Prior to joining the Simpson Lab, Afua spent a year and a half working night shifts as a Lab Assistant and later a Technician at Labcorp on the Swedish Cherry Hill campus.

Working on the heels of the pandemic, Afua gained significant experience in the healthcare field by doing PCR testing for COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. Most recently, she worked in biotech as an Associate Scientist for Nexelis doing immunology tests to analyze drug efficacy. Her research interest is fueled by a passion for science and its clinical significance. Afua was on the pre-med path at UW-Bothell, and she hopes to continue pursuing that journey to achieve her MD and PhD.

“In my free time, I like to explore the scenic views that the Pacific Northwest has to offer,” says Afua. “I enjoy being surrounded by trees and mountains, so I often hike during the warmer weather. The rest of the rainy and cloudy days are spent being surrounded by family and friends, traveling, and going on road trips. I am excited to continue my journey here at the Division of Dermatology, and I look forward to meeting you all!”

Welcome to UW Dermatology Afua!