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Meet Dr Temitope Odedeyi, Royal Academy of Engineering Research Fellow at University College London
Please would you provide a short list of the highlights of your career to date?
In 2012, I received the Presidential Special Scholarship for Innovation and Development (PRESSID) from the Nigerian government, which generously funded both my MSc and PhD at the University College London (UCL). In the second year of my PhD (2017), I led a graduate team to victory in the Hack-Agtech competition, jointly organised by UCL and Rothamsted Research as an incubator for innovative technologies to address agricultural challenges in the Global South. Our winning project secured grant funding for the development of a radio frequency (RF) based crop quality tester. During my PhD and initial postdoctoral research, I worked mostly on new electronic circuit designs to address the bandwidth limitation in wireless and optical communication, achieving world-record results with one of my circuits in 2019.
In 2021, I played a key role in the formation of a consortium comprising 14 research organisations and businesses across Europe and Africa. This consortium received an EU grant to develop a cloud-based platform for monitoring the health of plants and animals in food production systems, a substantial step towards promoting healthier and eco-friendly food systems. Then in 2023, I received the Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng), Engineering for Development Research Fellowship.
I have authored or co-authored 17 publications, featuring in leading journals and conferences in my field.
Please would you tell us about your research and the area it focuses on? Plus, how you became interested in this?
I am working on the application of advanced electronic and communication systems to address challenges in food security and agricultural sustainability. Growing up in a farming region in Nigeria, I witnessed, first-hand, the dire effects of inefficient food systems on livelihood. Over the past seven years, I have committed to understanding the underlying problems and seeking viable tech-based, cross-disciplinary solutions. My goal is to deploy an accessible technology platform that bridges the knowledge and information gaps limiting food production and exploitation in sub-Saharan Africa, to boost agricultural output and improve the economic prospects of farmers.
Currently, my work is focused on developing AI-driven models that predict crop yields in different environmental conditions, and handheld electronic devices for in-field crop quality tracking. These technologies form the core of an ecosystem, that provides tailored support to farmers on resource usage, and timely implementation of agronomical interventions to optimise their yield. This is particularly crucial considering the challenges posed by climate change. Additionally, the ecosystem facilitates essential access to industrial and international markets, thereby streamlining logistical processes and mitigating post-harvest losses.
You recently received a Research Fellowship award from the Royal Academy of Engineering, please tell us more about that experience?
Receiving the Research Fellowship award from the Royal Academy of Engineering has been incredibly rewarding. The process, spanning nearly 12 months, involved internal selection stages and a rigorous evaluation by the RAEng. I went through three rounds of proposal writing; three sift panels; three interview stages and countless practice sessions.
Given the high standards and the exceptional quality of the pool of early career researchers in the UK, securing the RAEng fellowship feels a bit surreal. I am deeply thankful to God and grateful to collaborators, colleagues and friends for the support, guidance, and, most importantly, for the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research with the backing of such a prestigious institution.
What has it been like working at University College London?
Working at University College London (UCL) has been wonderful. London, as a city, offers a unique and dynamic environment, making everyday life an adventure in itself. However, what truly sets UCL apart is its exceptional academic and research environment. Being part of UCL has granted me access to world-leading research facilities that are at the forefront of technological advancements. The diversity and depth of research expertise at UCL is mind-boggling, providing an enriching and collaborative atmosphere. The state-of-the-art electrical engineering laboratory and workshop facilities have been instrumental in bringing my ideas to life, allowing me to explore and develop proof-of-concept solutions, all within the university's comprehensive infrastructure.
One of the most valuable aspects of my time at UCL has been the exceptional mentorship I received from my PhD supervisor, Professor Izzat Darwazeh. His guidance has played a pivotal role in shaping my academic and research journey. Additionally, the support from my colleagues has been both encouraging and collaborative, fostering an environment where ideas can thrive.
How have you had success securing funding for your work?
I have had some success in securing research grants. I have led and contributed to seven proposals focused on engineering for food security, securing close to £6 million in grant funding. While my core research expertise has played a pivotal role, the strength of the network I have been privileged to be a part of has been equally crucial. Collaborating with diverse experts and institutions has enriched the proposals and enhanced their competitiveness. Furthermore, the theme of my research - sustainability in agriculture – is highly relevant and resonates well with funding bodies that prioritise impact.
Could you tell us a little about your background, where you are from in Nigeria, where you have studied and how this led to you researching in the UK?
I am from the city of Abeokuta in Southwest Nigeria, a predominant farming region, which as I mentioned earlier provided me with the motivation for my research. I earned my BSc degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) in Nigeria, finishing with first class honours, after which I received the PRESSID funding from the Nigerian government to study at UCL. The transition from Nigeria to the UK provided me with a valuable platform to hone and apply my technical expertise to address some of the pressing challenges in agriculture, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, leveraging the advanced research facilities and collaborative opportunities available in the UK.
As an international researcher in the UK, what advice would you give to others considering working or studying outside their home country?
Firstly, I will recommend that they immerse themselves in the culture of the host country, understanding its nuances to facilitate a smoother adaptation. Building a robust network is crucial – connect with colleagues, mentors, and fellow international researchers for academic and social support. Embrace the diversity around you, fostering interactions with people from various backgrounds to broaden your perspectives. Stay open-minded and adaptable, welcoming new ways of thinking and doing things. Also, I recommend that they take the time to understand the academic culture of the host institution, to recognise its unique expectations and practices.
You can find out more about Temitope and his work using the links below:
YouTube video: YouTube
UCL News Items:
Photograph credit: James Tye Photography (jamestye.com)
