Nigerian microbiologist, Iyiola Oladunjoye, wins inaugural ASM Young Ambassador Excellence Award

It was a moment of joy as  Iyiola Oladunjoye, a distinguished Nigerian microbiologist was honored with the inaugural American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Young Ambassador Excellence Award on June 14, 2024 at Atlanta.

This prestigious accolade recognizes Oladunjoye’s significant contributions to microbial sciences and microbiology education in Nigeria, as well as his efforts to promote inclusivity within the scientific community. The award was presented by ASM President Professor Virginia Miller and CEO Dr. Stefano Bertuzzi at the ASMicrobe conference held at the Georgia World Congress Centre.

Oladunjoye, a first-class graduate of microbiology from the University of Ilorin, Nigeria, has made remarkable strides in the field. He has served as the general secretary of the Nigerian Association of Microbiology Students (NAMS), pioneering both regional and national bodies of the association.

As ASM’s Young Ambassador to Nigeria from 2021 to 2023, he has actively engaged with students and early-career scientists, providing mentorship and organizing professional development workshops. These initiatives have been instrumental in clarifying career paths for microbiology graduates in Nigeria.

Oladunjoye’s impact extends beyond education. He led the first-ever Outbreak Exhibition in Lagos, educating the public on infectious disease outbreaks in collaboration with the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History and the Rouleaux Foundation. As a One Health Fellow, he implemented clean-up and zoonoses awareness programs at the Ijora Fish Market, significantly contributing to pandemic prevention efforts. His advocacy for young women living with HIV through the Youths Against HIV Discrimination Initiative earned him the Princess Diana Award in 2023.

Oladunjoye’s research has focused on isolating and characterizing pathogenic bacteria from abattoir wastewater, highlighting the public health risks associated with untreated slaughterhouse waste. His

work underscores the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, advocating for the One Health approach to tackle issues like antimicrobial resistance and zoonotic diseases.

Through an Erasmus Mundus scholarship, Oladunjoye completed a joint master’s degree in vaccinology, gaining exposure at leading biopharmaceutical companies in Europe.

He is currently a visiting researcher at the Oxford Vaccine Group, University of Oxford, working on vaccines for outbreak pathogens, furthering his commitment to advancing microbiology and vaccine development.

At the ASMicrobe conference, Oladunjoye participated in various activities, including the ASM Young Ambassadors’ Retreat, where he shared his journey and efforts in advancing microbial sciences. He also presented research posters and delivered talks on antimicrobial drug discovery and sustainability in microbiology, emphasizing the importance of science communication.

Oladunjoye’s selection for the ASM Young Ambassador Excellence Award from among 118 Young Ambassadors globally is a testament to his exceptional contributions. His work not only advances microbiology education and research in Nigeria but also inspires a new generation of microbiologists to tackle global health challenges.

Professor Virginia Miller lauded Oladunjoye’s impact, stating, “This year, the ASM Young Leaders Circle instituted this award for a young ambassador and two ASM student chapters that have significantly impacted their communities by advancing microbial sciences, inclusivity, and promoting ASM’s mission.”

Oladunjoye’s accomplishments and dedication to the field of microbiology exemplify the spirit of the ASM Young Ambassador Excellence Award, setting a benchmark for future recipients.

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