Background
Iyiola Oladunjoye is a Microbiologist and Erasmus+ joint master’s student in the Leading International Vaccinology Education program, studying across five European institutions in Spain, Belgium and France on a fully-funded scholarship. As a One Health professional, he has over 4 years of experience in environmental management, animal health, and human health. His passion lies in proffering sustainable solutions for global health challenges including antimicrobial resistance and emerging infectious diseases, using vaccine-based solutions.
Iyiola is the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Young Ambassador to Nigeria, providing professional development training and mentorship for microbiology students. Iyiola is also on the ASM Young Leader Circle advisory board and ASM Microbiology Leaders Evolving and Accountable to Progress (MicroBio-LEAP) task force. Iyiola has won numerous awards and accolades including being a 2022 West Africa Rhodes Scholarship Finalist, and a 2023 Diana Award Recipient recognized for his impact in One Health research and AMR advocacy.
Iyiola has over 30 publications in international peer-reviewed journals, and presented at numerous global conferences. He holds a first-class honors degree in microbiology from the University of Ilorin, Nigeria. Beyond work, Iyiola enjoys cooking, reading, and maintaining certifications.
Winning the Prestigious Princess Diana Award
Iyiola’s recognition with the esteemed Diana Award serves as a resounding validation of his multifaceted contributions to the realm of scientific knowledge. Propelled by a fusion of ground-breaking research, community engagement, and impassioned advocacy, Iyiola has boldly embraced the formidable challenges posed by antimicrobial resistance and zoonotic infectious diseases, positioning himself as a steadfast champion in their confrontation.
Central to his approach is a profound recognition of the intricate interplay between human, animal, and environmental health. By accentuating these interconnected facets, Iyiola has emerged as a fervent advocate in the One Health paradigm—a holistic strategy that stands as an effective bulwark against the complexity of these issues.
Beyond his scientific accomplishments, Iyiola’s radiant optimism and unwavering commitment to personal development serve as a radiant beacon, illuminating a path for his contemporaries and aspiring microbiologists alike. As the American Society for Microbiology’s Young Ambassador to Nigeria, he ardently dedicates himself to fostering the growth of the next scientific generation, assuming the mantle of mentorship and leadership with unfettered enthusiasm.
Ongoing Project
Iyiola is currently dedicated to developing a specialized mentoring platform for microbiology students. This project involves strategic partnerships with renowned organizations like the American Society for Microbiology and the Rouleaux Foundation. Leveraging these associations, Iyiola seeks to enhance scientific literacy, establish impactful mentorship programs, and advocate for crucial policy reforms.
In this pursuit, he envisions forging robust collaborations with fellow researchers, professionals, and policymakers. Collectively, they will be committed to driving positive changes and actively promoting the integration of One Health principles in healthcare systems and policy development. Through linking budding microbiologists with seasoned mentors and providing valuable resources, his mission is to elevate the learning journey and empower the next wave of microbiology experts.
The conferment of the Diana Award underscores Iyiola’s profound dedication to elevating public health standards, a career journey that is enormously cherished by Ducit Blue Foundation. This accolade stands as a living tribute to his unceasing endeavors, a testament to his indefatigable pursuit of advancing the well-being of communities at the regional and global level. In the ever-evolving tapestry of scientific progress, Iyiola’s contributions shine as a vibrant thread, weaving together knowledge, passion, and impact.
