Azeez Butali, Gilbert Lilly Endowed Professor of Diagnostic Sciences at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, was recently recognized by the Nigerian Medical Association for his pioneering work in cleft lip and palate research.

Dr. Azeez Butali has been awarded an NIH grant to identify rare genetic variants that contribute to orofacial clefts, the most common craniofacial birth defect. His work focuses on African populations and aims to improve early diagnosis, prevention, and care. The findings could lead to more personalized treatment strategies for children and families affected by clefts worldwide.

Dr. Azeez Butali, professor of oral pathology, radiology, and medicine in the UI College of Dentistry, has been awarded a Fulbright to further his groundbreaking work in human genetics.

Dr. Azeez Butali was awarded the Honoris Causa Award from the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria. This prestigious award recognizes medical specialists who have demonstrated exceptional excellence clinical care and training.

The award recognizes Butali's pioneering research in the genetics of cleft lip and palate, particularly within African populations, where he is the world's foremost expert.

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Azeez Butali, the Gilbert E. Lilly Professor of Diagnostic Sciences, was recognized at the American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association’s annual meeting with the Emerging Leader Award.

Azeez Butali is a global leader in cleft lip and palate research and the world’s foremost expert in the genetics of these conditions in African populations. As part of his research mission, he has also spearheaded the formation of a diverse, international network of researchers in Africa and the US to develop, refine, and apply their findings for the benefit of African populations and their genetic descendants. 

Azeez Butali is extending his research on the genetics of orofacial clefts in African populations so that his team improve the reception and acceptance of genetic information found in their studies.

The National Institutes of Health via the University of Kentucky awarded Azeez Butali and Erliang Zeng a grant to identify genome-wide genetic susceptibility variants around the world.