Fode Tounkara

Focused on real-world applications of statistical genetics and machine learning, Dr. Fode Tounkara is an Assistant Professor in Biomedical Informatics at the Ohio State University College of Medicine. With a robust background in statistical methods for clustered and correlated data, Dr. Tounkara is dedicated to advancing the field through innovative research and teaching. His work primarily involves developing statistical model frameworks for analyzing clustered binary data and creating flexible models for secondary phenotypes. Dr. Tounkara earned his PhD in Applied Mathematics from Université Laval, where he honed his skills in complex data analysis and statistical modeling. His academic journey has been marked by significant contributions to the field, particularly in the areas of copula modeling and statistical genetics. Prior to his current role, he held research positions at the University of Toronto and McGill University, where he focused on copula modeling in Hereditary Breast Cancer Syndrome families and machine learning for high-dimensional data analysis. At Ohio State University, Dr. Tounkara continues to explore the intersections of statistical genetics and machine learning, aiming to develop methodologies that can be applied to real-world biomedical challenges. His research interests are deeply rooted in copula modeling, secondary phenotypes, and the application of machine learning techniques to complex genetic data. Dr. Tounkara is committed to fostering a collaborative research environment and actively engages with students and colleagues to push the boundaries of biomedical informatics. His work not only contributes to the academic community but also has the potential to impact clinical practices and improve patient outcomes through more precise and personalized medical approaches. In addition to his research, Dr. Tounkara is passionate about teaching and mentoring the next generation of scientists. He believes in the power of education to drive innovation and is dedicated to equipping his students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving field of biomedical informatics.