From a teaching hospital in Nigeria to the academic corridors of the United Kingdom, Canada, and then the United States, Kayode Balogun, PhD, DABCC, FIBMS, FADLM, has built a career defined by curiosity, compassion, and a drive to improve patient care—especially for the most vulnerable.

A Journey Across Continents and Disciplines

Balogun’s interest in pathology began with a clinical lab internship at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital in Nigeria. This early experience working in a resource-limited environment left a lasting impression. “The interaction between clinical laboratorians and providers was mind blowing,” he said. “Even with limited resources, their passion for patient care was remarkable.”

After earning his bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, he went on to complete a master’s degree in biomedical science in London, where he undertook advanced academic and practical training in laboratory medicine. Balogun said he has been “glued to the field ever since.”

Next came a doctorate in biochemistry in Newfoundland, Canada, which led to postdoctoral research at the University Health Network in Toronto, where Balogun investigated the effects of HIV treatment in pregnancy. This work identified novel biomarkers for adverse pregnancy outcomes and contributed to changes in clinical guidelines—an early sign of the impact Balogun would have on the field.

ARUP: A Transformative Fellowship

Drawn to ARUP Laboratories for its reputation and advanced technology, Balogun earned a spot as a clinical chemistry fellow. He found the fellowship experience both rigorous and inspiring. “ARUP is unique,” he said. “The exposure to faculty with both generalist and focused expertise, the diversity of cases, and the camaraderie among fellows and mentors—it’s an experience that stays with you throughout your career.”

Collaborations and friendships formed at ARUP continue to shape Balogun’s career, with ongoing research partnerships and mentorship ties that have endured well beyond the fellowship years.

Championing Pediatric Reference Intervals

During his time at ARUP, Balogun worked with Tatiana Yuzyuk, PhD, ABMGG, ARUP medical director of Newborn Screening and Biochemical Genetics, to establish distinct reference intervals for children and adults for red blood cell fatty acid profiles.

A central theme in Balogun’s work is infant health. “Children are not small adults,” he emphasized.

Establishing accurate reference ranges for test results for children is challenging but essential, especially for special populations. “Understanding the chemistry and needs of these children allows us to provide the right care and interventions.”

Impact and Recognition

Now serving as director of Clinical Chemistry and Immunology Laboratories at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, New York, Balogun oversees the reporting of millions of tests annually and strives to mentor the next generation of laboratorians. His current research on HIV-exposed, uninfected children in the Bronx has revealed important public health insights, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance and support for this growing population.

Balogun’s contributions have been recognized with honors such as the “40 Under Forty” award from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and inclusion on The Pathologist magazine’s 2025 Power List, a testament to a career marked by excellence.

Advice for Future Fellows

Having made his home in New York, Balogun finds balance in a vibrant city that offers both professional fulfillment and opportunities for relaxation. “There’s always something for you in New York—great work, great community, and time to recharge. That’s what you need for success.”

For those considering a fellowship, he offers this advice: “Enjoy the experience and learn as much as you can. Build relationships with mentors. They become lifelong connections. And while the training is broad, find a specific area of focus that you’re passionate about. That’s how you make your mark.”