Prof. Rita Orji is a Canada Research Chair in Persuasive Technology and Computer Science Professor at Dalhousie University, Canada, where she directs the Persuasive Computing Lab.
Consistently ranked among the world’s top 2% of scientists by Stanford University (2019-2024), Prof. Orji is a globally recognized leader in designing interactive technologies for social good. Her groundbreaking research at the intersection of technology and human behavior focuses on developing persuasive technologies that empower people, improve lives, and address critical societal challenges. She applies her work to tackle real-life problems in multiple domains including health, wellness, mental health, and sustainability, with particular emphasis on designing culturally appropriate and gender-inclusive technologies.
As Founder of Education for Women and the Less Privileged NGO, Prof. Orji has demonstrated unwavering commitment to advancing opportunities for underrepresented groups. She has consulted in high-profile organizations championing gender equity, bringing her technical expertise and lived experience to bear on initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in STEM fields globally. Prof. Orji’s contributions have earned her over 80 prestigious awards and recognitions internationally, including the NSERC Arthur B. McDonald Fellowship – Canada’s highest early career researcher prize in Science and Engineering. She has been named among the Top 150 Canadian Women in STEM, Top 60 African Women in STEM, Top 100 Canada’s Most Powerful Women, and Top 100 Nigeria’s Leading Women.
With over 350 peer-reviewed papers, she has won multi-millions of dollars in competitive grant funding from agencies and governments worldwide. Prof. Orji’s influence extends beyond her research through her extensive speaking engagements, having delivered 30 keynotes and over 100 invited talks internationally.
A trailblazer who has broken numerous barriers, Prof. Orji graduated with First-class honors in all her studies and has been recognized by governments and organizations across the world for her outstanding academic achievements. Her admission into both the Royal Society of Canada and the Global Young Academy further attests to her scientific eminence and leadership.
Prof. Orji’s journey from a disadvantaged background to becoming an influential voice in global scientific discourse exemplifies her resilience and determination. As a passionate STEM diversity ambassador, she continues to inspire the next generation of youth and female tech leaders while advocating for research excellence, equity, diversity, and inclusion in scientific organizations worldwide.
