As the Associate Director of Finance and Research Operations, Muheebat Akinola leads the Financial and Administrative Services Team, managing all facets of finance, grants administration, human resources, and IT services for the institute. She plays a key role in shaping and executing the institute’s long-term financial strategy. As a member of the leadership team, she provides strategic guidance to the Institute Director and other program and core leaders, supporting the execution of the institute’s mission and initiatives across research, clinical, and outreach areas.  Dedicated to maintaining compliance with federal and institutional regulations, Muheebat focuses on enhancing operational efficiency and driving strategic improvements. Her wealth of experience, combined with a commitment to excellence, makes her a valuable asset to any organization. Additionally, she is passionate about fostering professional growth and promoting cross-cultural engagement.  Muheebat holds a Master of Business Administration in Accounting from Southern New Hampshire University and a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition Science from the University of Houston. She is also certified in Lean Six Sigma Green Belt and has completed the Research Administration Certification Program. Her expertise includes business process optimization, financial planning, and project management.