Dr. Bartholomew Adeleke, an alumnus of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), has been recognized as one of the top 2% of scientists globally.
This ranking, released in a report by Elsevier and Stanford University on September 16, 2024, highlights Dr. Adeleke’s significant contributions to the field of Plant Biology and Botany.
Dr. Adeleke ranked 192,742 worldwide in his field, boasting an impressive 32 Scopus-indexed publications. Furthermore, he placed 3,452 out of 174,582 scholars in this specialized discipline, a testament to his impactful research and dedication.
His academic journey began at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Nigeria, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology in 2011. Dr. Adeleke then pursued a Master’s degree in Food Microbiology at FUTA, graduating in 2017.
His fascination with the intricate relationships between plants, soil, and microbes, especially their agricultural applications, propelled him to North-West University in South Africa, where he completed his Ph.D. in 2022, focusing on soil-plant-microbe interactions.
Currently, Dr. Adeleke serves as a Lecturer II in the Microbiology program within the Department of Biological Sciences at Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH) in Okitipupa, Nigeria.
He is also an esteemed member of the Nigerian Young Academy (NYA). In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Dr. Adeleke actively mentors students and conducts research on soil and plant microbes, investigating their potential as bioinoculants to improve crop yields and enhance soil fertility.
His groundbreaking work has not only advanced agricultural practices but has also addressed global challenges related to food security.
Dr. Adeleke’s inclusion in the elite group of the world’s top 2% scientists underscores the significance and global impact of his research. He reflects the high-quality education and training provided by FUTA, an institution celebrated for its commitment to “Technology for Self-Reliance.”
Adeleke’s remarkable achievements inspire current students and recent graduates from both FUTA and OAUSTECH, demonstrating the heights attainable through persistent research and hard work. Notably, his research on soil and endophytic microbiomes has garnered widespread citations across agriculture, environmental science, and public health, underscoring its broad relevance.
FUTA proudly celebrates Adeleke as part of its esteemed alumni network, viewing his success as a reflection of the institution’s dedication to academic excellence. His recognition not only honors his alma mater but also elevates the Nigerian academic community, inspiring future generations of researchers.
In response to this prestigious acknowledgment, Dr. Adeleke expressed profound gratitude, stating, “I am deeply thankful to God, my lecturers, supervisors, mentors, collaborators, family members, and benefactors, whose unwavering support and invaluable contributions have been instrumental in my journey.”