Profile

Outside, you’ll usually see me enjoying short walks in nature. I also recently started skipping a lot more this month as part of the Cancer Research UK #skippinghchallenge. I’m no fitness queen but I am thrilled that I have remained consistent throughout. I’m also trying my hand at growing plants and enjoy cooking lovely Nigerian meals like jollof rice! You’ll catch me writing my recipes out like I would have done in science laboratory notebooks. For me, cooking meals is similar to preparing and finally doing my experiments in the lab.

Not too long ago, about 2 years now, my laboratory research focused on discovering new molecules that we could use as drugs in the treatment of cancer. I was responsible for designing the platform to enhance our efficiency. One day I would be in the lab making new molecules, using different types of equipment. The next day, or hours later, I would be in meetings with suppliers presenting our ideas for new equipment, or reporting on my experimental results to my bosses and sharing information with my colleagues. On other days I would be teaching science to students across different levels of education in the UK. My education has given me the tools to apply my knowledge in different aspects from the lab to the online classroom and even teaching in communities in Nigeria

Science can be exciting especially when you see your ideas become real products.

Now, I use most of my time to teach subjects in Biology, infection control and public health to pre-university students, undergraduates and post-graduates. I particularly enjoy sharing my love for science with adults and children. So, you will also see me talking about Superbugs, and organising events, for the Me You and the Superbugs project, which focuses on educating people about the need for the correct use of antibiotics.

In a recent Biology class, we studied the digestive system and now we are looking to start talking about the immune system (made up of organs, cells, and tissues in our body that help us fight infections and stay healthy).

Right now, I am still involved in finishing up some research from our Me You and The Superbugs project. This project is dear to my heart as it has enabled my team and me to reach out to people in Nigeria, and promote knowledge about the correct use of antimicrobials such as antibiotics. Since 2018, I have led the organisation of 6 events (both online and face-to-face). This requires that I apply very good team and leadership skills as well as be good at technology to run our online events. I also have to ensure our funds are managed responsibly.

Antibiotics are drugs which we use when we have bacterial infections, but many times people use them for different infections not caused by bacteria. The wrong use of antibiotics promotes antibiotic resistance which means that antibiotics can no longer be used or have limited use for treating infections. This happens because the bacteria change to become resistant to the antibiotics. So it is important that we continue to raise awareness of the correct use of our antibiotics. Here’s a YouTube video of me doing something I love to do – which is demonstrating antibiotic resistance

At school, I was very good at maths but I found Biology easier to work with every day. I think the human body has always fascinated me, although it can be quite complex. It will be good to hear from you all about which topics in science or health that you currently enjoy.

Depending on the day, I may take a break around 10 am or 11 am. Then I return to my desk and continue my teaching. teaching is usually interactive and students get to share their ideas with one another in small groups.  This is a day when I am teaching.

Afterwards, around 2 pm, I take another break and check on emails. Students may have asked me questions about their homework or I might need to share some information with my colleagues. I also prepare my notes for the other classes in the week. On other days, I will focus on marking assignments and finishing up reports for different projects. I am continually using Maths, Literacy and Communication skills in all aspects of my work.

I have lots of flexibility since I work from home, so I try to be well-organised and use my time in a way that makes me happy.