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Overall Best Graduating PhD Student in Industrial Chemistry from the University of Lagos, Dr Adetoun Akintoye, shares with TEMITOPE ADETUNJI her challenges and sacrifices in the journey towards earning her doctorate
Can you tell us about yourself and your background?
Many people know me as Heiress or Mademoiselle. I have always been a multi-passionate person, which explains the different names. ‘Mademoiselle’ came from my work as the Founder of the Mademoiselle Foundation, where I empower young girls to become leaders. I also ran Heiress Creatives, a customised gift business, and later transitioned into Heiress Foods, which focuses on cassava-based products through the ‘Cassinnovation’ project.
Beyond these, I have always been a writer. I authored books such as ‘The Journal of a Young School Girl’, ‘How Students Can Fly in Colours’, and ‘The Poetic Psalms’. I also founded Heiress Nation, a faith-based platform that simplifies the gospel through poetry and stories.
Even before my PhD, I had a strong interest in food security and indigenous crops, often researching how local snacks and drinks like kokoro, abacha, kunu, zobo, and fura were made. With my mum’s backyard recipe, I created Ping Drinks and started selling in school. My research eventually focused on mitigating post-harvest losses in cassava, a staple crop for millions.
What was your field of study, and what inspired you to choose this particular area of research?
I studied Industrial Chemistry because I was fascinated by creating and transforming local raw materials into value-added products. Graduating as one of the top students, I was retained as a Graduate Assistant, which set me on the path to a PhD.
My first supervisor, Prof. Wesley Okiei, encouraged me to explore my passion for cassava. So, my research focused on cassava’s deterioration mechanisms and developing electrochemical sensors and biomaterials to slow down spoilage.
My goal was not just academic but to create practical solutions for farmers and improve food security. I am also very grateful to my second supervisor, Dr Isaac Adebayo Akinbulu, for his guidance.
What university did you graduate from?
I graduated this year January 2025 from the University of Lagos; it was the 2023/2024 session.
Did you also earn your first degree there?
Yes, I did.
At what point in your academic journey did you decide to pursue a PhD, and what motivated that decision?
Being retained as a Graduate Assistant naturally led me to consider a PhD. I vividly recall an event at the main auditorium where the current Vice-Chancellor (she was the Deputy Vice Chancellor at the time), Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, was speaking. Seeing her made academia look prestigious, and at that moment, I decided to take the job.
As I progressed, I also realised that a PhD would equip me with the tools to contribute meaningfully to society. The motivation to solve real-world challenges in agriculture and food security also strengthened my resolve.
What experiences, mentors, or events played a significant role in shaping your academic path?
Receiving my first scholarship from former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, motivated me to excel academically as an undergraduate student. My days of studying hard paid off, as it culminated in me becoming a Graduate Assistant. This earned me several academic mentors such as senior colleagues and professors in the Department, including the first female Dean of the Faculty of Science, Professor Olayinka Taiwo Asekun, Prof. Oluwole Familoni, Prof. Kehinde Olayinka, Prof. Luqman Adams and my Head of Department, Professor Olusegun Ayejuyo (to mention just a few), who gave me valuable guidance. My PhD supervisors, Professor Wesley Okiei and Dr. Isaac Adebayo Akinbulu also equipped me with intellectual freedom that allowed me to think innovatively.
Thankfully, the School of Post-Graduate Studies, Unilag is doing an amazing job in fostering a progressive environment to thrive, under the leadership of the Dean, Prof. Abraham A. Osinubi and the Sub-Dean, Dr. Adegboyega B. Ehinmowo.
All these, I believe contributed to my academic success.
What was the focus of your PhD research, and what problem were you trying to solve?
My PhD research focused on extending cassava’s shelf life to enhance its value addition and effective utilisation. Specifically, I aimed to determine and eliminate the causative agents responsible for cassava deterioration and develop strategies to mitigate spoilage which leads to significant food losses and economic setbacks for local farmers.
How long did it take to complete your PhD, and what were the most challenging aspects of the journey?
I officially started my research in 2020, but then COVID happened. I completed my bench work in late 2023, and from there, I focused on paperwork, thesis writing, and completion seminars, which took me into 2024. So, technically, it took about four years, and every year came with its own set of challenges.
The biggest hurdles included securing funding (initially), dealing with research setbacks, and navigating the demands of my supervisors and work. Balancing multiple responsibilities, including mentoring young scientists, running my foundation, and pursuing my research was another challenge. However, perseverance, faith, and passion for my work kept me going.
The journey was tough, but the reward was worth it eventually, especially being recognised with the Best Overall PhD Thesis Award at the January 2025 convocation ceremonies.
Every PhD student faces moments of doubt. Was there ever a time you considered quitting?
Of course, I considered quitting many times. I didn’t even think a PhD was “for me.” I sometimes felt like I wasn’t good enough. But that feeling pushed me to do more; I wanted to make something “global” out of my research.
My way of not quitting was to be innovative; I constantly sought ways to pull through. I became more interested in results and effective procedures rather than unfeasible ones. I broke things down into small bits and tackled problems in bite-sized portions.
One particularly difficult phase was when my experiments kept failing despite months of effort. The thought of quitting crossed my mind, but I reminded myself why I started. My passion for food security, the young girls looking up to me, and the support from my mentors and family kept me going.
What study methods helped you achieve this feat?
I did what worked for me at every point because each day had its own unique challenges. I planned my days effectively every night before the next, and this helped me a lot. I also adopted a structured and efficient approach to studying.
Additionally, I leveraged technology and collaboration, discussing ideas with peers, including junior and senior colleagues with previous research experience. Attending conferences and taking courses also helped refine my thinking.
Can you share a major breakthrough or defining moment in your research?
I had many defining moments, but I’ll start with the one that first gave me butterflies. During the preliminary phase of my research, I realised that some of the formulations I had prepared could extend the shelf life of cassava. I was so happy.
Another defining moment was in Brazil during my bench work when I successfully developed non-enzymatic sensors that could detect early spoilage markers in cassava. Another memorable moment came when my work gained international recognition by, winning the Best Paper Award in the Agropreneurship Track at the ARUA-COE for USD Conference in Nairobi, Kenya. This led to my being featured as an African Amazon, in a widely-aired interview.
What sacrifices did you have to make to achieve this feat?
One major sacrifice was completely staying off social media. When I needed to make important posts for my foundation, I engaged social media managers. I also distanced myself from unproductive friendships and significantly reduced my chat time.
To further minimise distractions, I worked mostly from the university library. Waking up early to go there and staying till late night when the porters were about to lock up, only to resume laboratory work at midnight. My social life was nearly nonexistent.
Financially, despite receiving scholarships, I sometimes had to personally fund aspects of my research, which meant cutting back on personal luxuries. Emotionally, the PhD journey could be isolating, but thank God I found companionship along the way.
How did you balance your academic work with personal commitments?
I set clear goals, prioritised effectively, created structured schedules, practised strict time management, and delegated tasks. My soul mate also really helped me maintain balance, stabilising me during frustrating moments and giving me “pro-tips” for completing a PhD successfully. He encouraged me to aim high and helped with tasks to ensure I wasn’t overwhelmed. With these and divine support, I navigated the journey rather smoothly.
Did you have any hobbies or activities that helped you relax and stay focused during the PhD?
Praying, studying and writing; prayer was my safe haven whenever I needed to unwind or felt overwhelmed. Writing also served as an avenue for relaxing, and letting out my thoughts and frustrations. Additionally, I mentored young girls through various initiatives, which reminded me of the bigger picture beyond my research.
What role did family and friends play in supporting you through this journey?
Family is everything. My dad, Prince Adesegun Akitoye, and my mum, Olori Gbemisola Akitoye, along with my elder brothers, gave me the necessary support, especially through their prayers when I needed to make tough decisions.
My spiritual family also played a huge role. Church was a great solace for me, and I truly appreciate my spiritual fathers and teachers. My family, friends, mentors, and mentees were my anchor as well.
How did you feel when you received the news that you were the best graduating PhD student?
I was overjoyed and deeply grateful to God. Receiving the news on the first day of the year made it even more special. Though my soul mate and I had prayed for it, part of me still doubted it would happen. Seeing my pictures on flyers finally made it real. God truly answers prayers!
Was this something you consciously worked towards, or did it come as a surprise?
It was a deliberate effort. Every seminar, research project, and conference I attended was driven by my goal to make a meaningful impact. Listening to past awardees inspired me, but I wasn’t sure how it would happen for me. Thankfully, my best friend’s unwavering support and encouragement helped me stay focused. He even transported samples to the US for further analysis to improve my research publications. Ultimately, ‘Paul planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase’.
What is your CGPA?
I finished with 5.0 out of 5.0 for my Ph.D coursework, and I thank God for that.
In your opinion, what sets an excellent PhD student apart from an average one?
Beyond intelligence, an excellent PhD student is passionate, resilient, intellectually curious, and determined to push through challenges. They don’t just aim to complete a thesis; instead, they seek to contribute meaningful knowledge to their field. Key qualities such as goal-setting, efficient work habits, collaboration, continuous learning, 100% focus, and the God factor also set them apart.
What real-world impact do you hope your research will have?
Cassava is a highly valuable yet underutilised crop in Nigeria. However, its deterioration has major implications for food security. By developing innovative preservation techniques, I aimed to extend cassava’s shelf life, reduce wastage, and enhance productivity for farmers and industries. Ultimately, with my research, I hope to position cassava a profitable, GDP-boosting crop while contributing to global food security through scientific innovation.
Do you plan to continue in academia, go into industry, or pursue something entirely different?
I see myself at the intersection of academia, industry, and social impact. Academia allows me to conduct research and mentor future scientists, while industry enables practical implementation of innovations. In addition, my passion for STEM education, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment will continue to drive me. In addition to research, I will keep mentoring young girls through my foundation, publishing books, developing apps, and ultimately “writing for God.” With His help, I believe I can achieve these goals and create a lasting impact.
What are your next steps? Do you have any postdoctoral research, projects, or career aspirations?
For now, I plan to focus on family while continuing to work hard and embrace opportunities that come my way. I remain open to exploring further academic and industry collaborations as they arise. At the moment, I am specifically open to opportunities for a postdoctoral position at an Ivy League institution.
What advice would you give to students currently considering or pursuing a PhD?
I hope you’re pursuing something you’re truly passionate about, but even if you’re not, always remind yourself that you can do it. Work deliberately toward the finish line. Don’t be intimidated by the big picture, break it down into smaller, manageable tasks. All the small steps add up over time. If you find yourself working on something you’re not passionate about, find your passion points and integrate them into the work.
For example, when I felt bored with the chemistry of my work, I attended training on Cassava Processing at IITA, which gave me a fresh perspective and led to a published research article. Seek mentors, network widely, and ask for guidance whenever needed. Develop strong research and writing skills early, stay disciplined, and view setbacks as stepping-stones.
What legacy do you hope to leave in your field of study?
My dream is to simplify chemistry so much that it ignites the curiosity of young minds. I want to create a world where chemistry is seen not just as a subject but as a powerful tool for solving real-world problems. My aspiration is to be known as a scientist who bridges research and real-world solutions, contributing significantly to food security, sustainable agriculture, and science-driven innovation in Africa and beyond.
Source: PUNCH
