As Head of Data Analytics at Grassroots, Dr. Iftikhar leads the design and execution of high-impact data strategies. She is an expert in complex statistical methodologies—including advanced econometrics, time series, and multivariate analysis—and is fluent across a wide range of tools such as STATA, R, SAS, SPSS, Eviews, ODK-X, REDCap, Python, ArcGIS, and Power BI.
Her leadership is distinguished by an ability to translate massive, complex datasets—such as provincial immunization registries with over 150 million records—into actionable insights on intervention coverage, timeliness, and equity. She has successfully established and led data analytics units and training hubs within major health institutions, and played a pivotal role in strengthening Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) and research ethics systems.
Dr. Iftikhar is a trusted technical advisor to government agencies, multilateral organizations, and international NGOs, offering strategic support on statistical modeling, data systems, and policy-relevant research. Her consultancy portfolio includes regional work with the Asia Pacific Transgender Network and projects focused on refugee mental health, education outcomes, and service delivery in fragile contexts.
A prolific researcher and educator, she has authored over 50 peer-reviewed publications and has trained hundreds of professionals in biostatistics, data interpretation, and research methods. Her career is driven by a deep commitment to ethical practice, equity, and the belief that high-quality data, when used wisely, can transform health systems and improve lives.