In the world of science and research, excellence is not built overnight. It is forged through years of dedication, resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to solving real-world problems. Few scholars embody this journey as remarkably as Folasade Mayowa Olajuyigbe — an internationally recognized biochemist, researcher, mentor, and academic leader whose work continues to shape the future of biotechnology, environmental sustainability, and women’s participation in STEM across Nigeria and beyond.
Currently serving as the Director of the Central Research Laboratory at Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), Prof. Olajuyigbe stands as a symbol of academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and transformational leadership.
A Remarkable Academic Journey
Born and raised in Southwest Nigeria, Prof. Olajuyigbe’s academic journey reflects a lifelong pursuit of excellence and knowledge.
She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from University of Lagos in 1991 before advancing to obtain a Master’s degree in Applied Biochemistry from Federal University of Technology Akure in 2002.
Her passion for molecular science and structural biology later led her to pursue a split-site PhD in Biochemistry between FUTA and Università degli Studi di Trieste, Italy, under the prestigious Centre of Excellence in Biocrystallography. She completed her doctorate in 2009, specializing in Structural Biology and Biocrystallography.
Her pursuit of global scientific exposure also took her to the University of Florida, USA, where she undertook postdoctoral research in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology between 2011 and 2012.
In 2017, she was awarded the highly prestigious Fulbright Program Senior Research Scholarship and became a Visiting Scholar at Rutgers University–New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA.
Rising Through the Academic Ranks
Prof. Olajuyigbe’s academic career at FUTA is a powerful testament to perseverance and excellence.
Interestingly, before fully transitioning into academia, she spent five years in administrative service at the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). In 2003, she made a bold transition into university teaching and research as an Assistant Lecturer at FUTA.
From there, she steadily rose through the academic ladder:
- University Lecturer (2003–2014)
- Senior Lecturer (2014–2017)
- Associate Professor (2017–2020)
- Full Professor of Biochemistry (2020–Present)
Today, she also serves as the Director of the University Central Research Laboratory at FUTA, where she leads cutting-edge scientific research and innovation initiatives.
Her journey from administrative service to becoming a globally respected professor is a story of discipline, determination, and vision.
A Globally Recognized Scientist
Prof. Olajuyigbe is widely respected for her expertise in:
- Structural Biology
- Enzyme Biotechnology
- Environmental Bioremediation
- Bioenergy and Biofuel Research
- Structure-Based Drug Design
Her research has contributed significantly to scientific advancement in areas such as:
- HIV protease inhibitor development
- Microbial enzyme biotechnology
- Lignocellulosic biomass conversion
- Sustainable biofuel production
- Environmental pollution remediation
With over 50 peer-reviewed international publications and more than 1,000 citations, her work continues to influence scientific research globally.
Some of her notable research contributions include groundbreaking studies on:
- Thermostable enzymes
- Biodegradation of crude oil pollutants
- Bioconversion of agricultural waste
- Enzyme engineering for sustainable bioenergy
- Structural analysis of HIV protease inhibitors
Her research group, the Enzyme and Environmental Biotechnology Laboratory (E-Biotech Lab), is recognized for developing innovative solutions using microbial and enzymatic technologies to address environmental and energy challenges.
International Awards, Fellowships, and Research Grants
Prof. Olajuyigbe’s excellence has earned her numerous prestigious awards and international recognitions.
She is:
- A two-time winner of the prestigious International Foundation for Science (IFS), Sweden Research Grant
- A two-time recipient of the Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowship
- A former Associate of the International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), Italy
- A Fulbright Senior Research Scholar
- Principal Investigator of the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) Collaborative Research Project
In 2020, she secured the highly competitive International Research Grant from the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Italy, for a groundbreaking project focused on developing bifunctional chimeric enzymes for efficient lignocellulosic biomass conversion and sustainable biofuel production.
Her project competed successfully among applications from over 50 member countries and was recognized for its potential impact on environmental sustainability and renewable energy development.
Championing Research and Innovation
As Director of the Central Research Laboratory at FUTA, Prof. Olajuyigbe has continued to drive scientific innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Under her leadership:
- The laboratory won the Seeding Labs Instrumental Access Award in 2024
- The maiden Annual Research Seminar of the Central Research Laboratory was successfully organized
- Young researchers and postgraduate students continue to receive mentorship and advanced scientific training
She has also supervised and mentored numerous undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students who are contributing meaningfully to science and technology globally.
Her laboratory is equipped with modern research facilities and supports innovative research in enzyme technology, molecular biology, biotechnology, and environmental science.
Inspiring Women and Girls in STEM
Beyond the laboratory, Prof. Olajuyigbe is deeply committed to empowering women and girls in science.
She is the Founder and President of the Women’s Dignity Initiative Inc. (WDII), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting girls from disadvantaged backgrounds through scholarships, mentorship, and STEM empowerment initiatives.
She also serves as:
- National Chairperson of the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Nigeria Chapter
- A leader within Network of Nigerian Women in STEM (NWiSTEM)
- Mentor to numerous young female scientists and researchers
Her advocacy for gender inclusion in science has earned her international recognition.
She was celebrated by the International Foundation for Science (IFS), Sweden, as a global role model for women in science and was recognized among prominent Nigerian women excelling in scientific research.
A Legacy of Excellence and Impact
Prof. Folasade Mayowa Olajuyigbe’s story is one of purpose, resilience, and impact.
From conducting world-class research in structural biology and biotechnology to mentoring future scientists and advocating for women in STEM, she has become a shining example of what is possible through dedication and excellence.
Her career reminds young academics, researchers, and students that greatness is built through consistent hard work, continuous learning, and a commitment to making meaningful contributions to humanity.
As she continues to break barriers in science and leadership, Prof. Olajuyigbe remains one of Nigeria’s finest scientific minds and a source of inspiration to the next generation of researchers across Africa and the world.
