Irene Ayako Uchida is a Canadian genetics researcher and pioneer of cytogenetics. Her significant studies shined the light on the anomalies that might occur in chromosomes. She is the first researcher to use fluorescence microscopy to detect these anomalies.

One of her discoveries is related the Down Syndrome. She proved that the supplementary chromosome that causes Down Syndrome can derive from both parents, not just the mom.

She also contributed significantly in establishing the evidence of the harm that X-rays can cause when pregnant women are exposed to these radiations.

In 1960, she conceived the first blood test to establish the chromosomic karyotype of new-borns.