Ph.D. student recognized for his contributions to the field of nutritional sciences
Thursday, November 6, 2025
Media Contact: Kirsi McDowell | Communications Coordinator | 405-744-8320 | kirsi@okstate.edu
No matter the field Dr. Femi Olawale is studying, his goal is for his research to have a meaningful impact on the world around him.
Olawale, an Oklahoma State University student pursuing his second Ph.D., received multiple awards for his outstanding work during the 2024-25 academic year.
A doctoral student in the nutritional sciences program, Olawale received the 2025 College of Education and Human Sciences’ Outstanding Research by a Graduate Student award — a prestigious honor highlighting exemplary research from a graduate student.
Olawale completed his bachelor’s degree in biochemistry in 2013 at Ekiti State University
in Nigeria, and his master’s degree in nutritional biochemistry in 2017 with the University
of Ibadan in Oyo State, Nigeria. Olawale obtained his first Ph.D. in biochemistry
from the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban, South Africa. He is on track to complete
his current Ph.D. program in 2026.
While at OSU, Olawale has connected with others outside the classroom, giving back to the community he said has given him so much.
“I currently serve as a graduate research assistant and teaching assistant in the Department of Nutritional Sciences,” Olawale said. “Beyond that, I’m actively involved in student life — I’m the liaison officer for the International Student Organization, treasurer for the Graduate Nutritional Sciences Club, and one of the graduate student ambassadors for the College of Education and Human Sciences.”
Olawale said being selected for the Outstanding Research by a Graduate Student award was humbling and affirming.
“It made me feel seen and appreciated for the hard work I’ve poured into my research,” he said. “It also reminded me of how important it is to keep asking meaningful questions and pushing boundaries in our field.”
This wasn’t his only honor during the spring 2025 semester.
Olawale was also selected as a finalist to compete in the Diversity in Nutrition Oral Competition by the American Society of Nutrition and was given the opportunity to present his abstract, “Resistant Starch Supplementation Promotes Brain Health in Estrogen Deficient Mice by Modulating Gut-Derived Enzyme and Metabolites.”
“Being honored by ASN was another proud moment for me,” Olawale said. “Presenting my work on a national stage and connecting with other early career investigators across the country was inspiring. It motivated me to keep going and continue improving.”
Olawale’s research focuses on menopausal women and the connection between metabolic disorders and obesity.
“My research focuses on how pinto bean supplementation affects gut health and microbial diversity in a model of estrogen deficiency — basically looking at how certain foods can help improve health outcomes in postmenopausal conditions,” Olawale said.
“I’m passionate about how diet, gut health and chronic disease intersect, and my goal is to contribute meaningful findings that can support aging populations.”
Olawale’s research expertise has spanned various subject areas related to human biology.
“Past research areas have included cancer biology, diabetes and nanotechnology, with a focus on natural products and drug delivery systems,” Olawale said.
“That background helped lay a strong foundation and has given me a broader view of how science can be used to solve real-world problems.”
Olawale said what keeps him going is the belief that his research can make a difference.
“Whether it’s improving quality of life, guiding policy or simply advancing our understanding of nutrition and health, knowing that my work might help someone someday is what fuels me,” he said.
Olawale thanked his professors, friends and OSU faculty for supporting his academic journey. Through mentorship and guidance, Olawale has accomplished many achievements during his time at OSU.
“I’ve been especially fortunate to be mentored by Dr. Edralin Lucas, who has played a key role in my growth,” Olawale said. “Her support, patience and belief in my potential have made a lasting impact on me, and I’m incredibly grateful.”
Olawale believes that having a strong support system, as well as mentors who can guide you through academic research is an essential part of being successful in academic fields similar to his.
“Stay curious, stay open and find mentors who believe in you,” he said. “Research can be challenging, but when you’re driven by purpose, it becomes a rewarding journey.”
Photos By: Kelly Kerr
Story By: Annie Ross | ASPIRE Magazine