Rasha El-Rifai
Dr. Rasha El-Rifai, MD, serves as an Assistant Professor of Medicine with a focus on Nephrology at the University of Minnesota. Her academic journey began at the American University of Beirut, where she earned her medical degree. She further honed her expertise through residency and fellowship programs at prestigious institutions, including University Hospitals of Cleveland and Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Dr. El-Rifai's research interests are deeply rooted in transplant nephrology, with a particular emphasis on recurrent glomerulonephritis post-transplant. Her work extends to critical areas such as immune monitoring in kidney and pancreas transplants, genetic testing in kidney transplantation, and the complexities of BK nephropathy. Her contributions to these fields have been substantial, advancing both academic understanding and clinical practice. In addition to her research, Dr. El-Rifai is dedicated to education, actively teaching topics related to immunosuppression and transplant immunobiology. She also focuses on clinical challenges such as BK nephropathy and the management of pregnancy in kidney transplant patients. Her commitment to education is matched by her dedication to patient care, earning her accolades such as the Ambulatory Excellence Award from University Hospitals of Cleveland. Dr. El-Rifai is an active member of several professional organizations, reflecting her commitment to the field of nephrology. Her affiliations include the American College of Physicians, the American Society of Nephrology, the Renal Physician Association, and the American Society of Transplantation. These memberships underscore her engagement with the broader medical community and her dedication to staying at the forefront of nephrology research and practice. Through her work, Dr. El-Rifai continues to make significant contributions to the field of nephrology, particularly in the realm of transplant medicine. Her research, teaching, and clinical practice are all driven by a passion for improving patient outcomes and advancing medical knowledge.