By
Spurred to reality by an unfortunate incident, Adesola Adeyemi, a chemist from the University of North Carolina, Charlotte, has long been driven by a passion for advancing sustainable energy solutions and improving healthcare technology. His journey into battery research and organic electronics was shaped by a blend of scientific curiosity and personal experiences.
A pivotal moment in Adeyemi’s career was the loss of his beloved aunt to diabetes complications in early 2020. Her struggle to effectively monitor her glucose levels deeply affected him, prompting him to explore how technological advancements could improve the lives of diabetics.
“Inspired by my aunt’s memory, I joined Dr. Schemedake’s lab to research organic electronics, particularly OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) glucose monitors,” Adeyemi recalls. These devices, promising clearer and sharper displays, intrigued him due to their potential to make glucose readings easier to interpret, even in varying lighting conditions. He discovered that OLED technology not only enhances visibility but also consumes less power, leading to longer battery life for these vital devices. This aspect is crucial for ensuring continuous monitoring without interruptions.
The journey of exploring OLED glucose monitors became a personal mission for Adeyemi. He envisioned a future where individuals managing diabetes could have access to reliable, user-friendly monitors that could help prevent complications through timely and accurate glucose monitoring. This research connected him with healthcare professionals, engineers, and individuals within the diabetic community, allowing him to share insights and advocate for better technological solutions.
“Ultimately, my exploration into OLED glucose monitors is a tribute to my aunt’s memory—a journey driven by love, loss, and the hope of making a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by diabetes,” Adeyemi reflects.
Adeyemi’s fascination with battery applications however began much earlier when he was in high school, he went on to study Chemistry Science at the Lagos State University (LASU), before relocating in 2018 to the United States to further his education, obtaining a master’s degree in Chemistry from Central Michigan University. His research focused on material science chemistry, specifically Magnesium-reduced Graphitic Carbon Nitride for Sodium-ion Battery Applications, under the guidance of Dr. Fahlman. During his studies, he also worked as a graduate teaching assistant, instructing labs in general, inorganic, and organic chemistry.
Adeyemi revealed that his choice of study was informed by a deep curiosity about the mechanics of science and technology. “Choosing research in battery applications has been my dream since my high school days,” he explains. His motivation is rooted in the potential to revolutionize energy storage, making renewable energy sources more viable and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This field, rich with opportunities for innovation in material science, chemistry, and engineering, promises significant advancements through a multidisciplinary approach.
Adeyemi’s research on silicon pincers for solution-processable organic electronics is driven by the increasing demand for flexible, lightweight, and cost-effective electronic devices. This innovative research aims to improve battery efficiency, lifespan, and safety, addressing critical issues in energy storage. “Silicon pincers offer unique properties that can enhance the performance and scalability of organic electronics, making them more accessible and sustainable,” he explains.
The development of new materials and technologies, such as solid-state batteries and novel electrolytes, holds direct implications for numerous industries, including consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and grid storage. The potential environmental benefits, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and pollution, serve as strong motivators for his work. The dynamic and rapidly evolving nature of the field offers continuous learning and growth opportunities, often in collaboration with international experts and industry leaders.
Adeyemi’s dual focus on sustainable energy and healthcare technology showcases his commitment to contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future through groundbreaking advancements in both fields.
