Dr. Timothy Oladiran Ajiboye: Researcher at University of the Free State, South Africa
Dr. Timothy Oladiran Ajiboye is a passionate and prolific researcher in the field of environmental chemistry, with strong expertise in nanotechnology, water remediation, and material science. He obtained his PhD in Chemistry from North-West University, South Africa, focusing on the development of advanced photocatalysts for removing heavy metal ions and organic pollutants from water. His academic and research journey spans over 15 years and includes teaching, supervision, project evaluation, and scholarly publishing. Dr. Ajiboye has authored and co-authored over 40 peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters in internationally recognized journals and publishers. His professional career has included roles in Nigeria and South Africa, where he contributed to sustainable solutions in environmental pollution, public health, and advanced functional materials.
Online Profiles
Education
Dr. Ajiboye’s educational background spans top institutions in Nigeria and South Africa. He earned a PhD in Chemistry from North-West University (2022), where he specialized in nanomaterials for water purification. His MSc in Environmental Chemistry and Pollution Control was obtained from the University of Ibadan in 2014, with a thesis on e-waste and heavy metal contamination. He holds a B.Tech in Pure and Applied Chemistry (Second Class Upper) from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (2010), where he began foundational research in adsorption science. His early education was completed in Ogbomoso, Nigeria, where he distinguished himself academically through secondary and primary levels, earning several local scholarships and academic leadership roles.
Research Focus
Dr. Ajiboye’s research is deeply interdisciplinary, focusing on environmental nanotechnology, water treatment, green chemistry, and materials science. He designs and synthesizes photocatalytic materials such as functionalized g-C₃N₄, metal sulfides, ceramic-polymer composites, and carbon-based adsorbents for the removal of pharmaceuticals, dyes, and heavy metals from aqueous environments. His recent work expands into the biomedical application of nanoparticles and eco-friendly synthesis routes. A major part of his research integrates advanced characterization tools (TGA, NMR, SEM, UV-Vis, etc.), and his goal is to create cost-effective, scalable technologies for real-world environmental problems. He is especially passionate about sustainable development and bridging science with community impact.
Experience
With over a decade of experience in academic, research, and teaching environments, Dr. Ajiboye has served in multiple capacities across institutions. He is currently a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of the Free State and formerly at Nelson Mandela University, South Africa. He also holds the title of Extraordinary Senior Lecturer at NWU. Between 2015 and 2019, he lectured Cambridge Advanced Level Chemistry in Nigeria and served as Head of Science Department at multiple institutions. He has facilitated writing workshops, served as a Teaching Assistant, and contributed to curriculum development. His professional trajectory includes project supervision, thesis examination, academic mentorship, and participation in national science fairs and symposia.
Research Timeline & Activities
Dr. Ajiboye’s research journey began in 2009 with industrial training in quality control, followed by an NYSC community project in 2011, and an MSc research on e-waste in 2014. From 2020 onwards, his research output surged, especially during his PhD and subsequent postdoctoral tenures. Between 2021 and 2025, he has participated in major international conferences, hosted academic writing retreats, presented posters at global chemistry forums, and published more than 30 articles in just four years. He has supervised Honours and Master’s students, examined dissertations, served on project committees, and participated in scientific judging panels. He also plays active roles in capacity-building workshops across South Africa and beyond.
Awards & Honors
Dr. Ajiboye has received several awards and recognitions throughout his academic and leadership journey. These include bursaries from NWU and the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (FNAS), a scholarship from the Oyo State Government, and a Pivotal Club Scholarship. He is a Fellow of the Young African Leadership Initiative (YALI), a program sponsored by former U.S. President Barack Obama. He earned commendation from the Benue State NYSC for outstanding personal development projects. Notably, he was second runner-up in the Faculty of Science’s 3-Minute Thesis competition in 2021 and in the 2022 Science Slam Competition organized by BALEWARE and NWU. These honors reflect his dedication to research excellence, community impact, and academic leadership.
Top Noted Publication
Among Dr. Ajiboye’s many high-impact publications, a standout work is his 2024 article in Chemical Papers titled “Indium (III) complexes: application as organic catalyst, precursor for chalcogenides nanoparticles and starting materials in the industry” (DOI: 10.1007/s11696-024-03411-8). This paper comprehensively explores the industrial utility of indium complexes in catalysis and nanotechnology. It has attracted significant attention for its novel synthesis approach and multidisciplinary relevance across materials chemistry, green synthesis, and industrial applications. The publication not only demonstrates Dr. Ajiboye’s expertise in inorganic-organometallic chemistry but also exemplifies the global impact and citation visibility of his work.
Development of a semiconducting supramolecular copper(II)–metallogel for antimicrobial and microelectronic device applications
RSC Advances, 2025
DOI: 10.1039/D5RA01535A
→ Highlights: Dual-functional material with potential in electronics and biomedicine.Exploring the efficient antimicrobial applications of a novel supramolecular Hg(II)-metallogel derived from succinic acid acting as a low molecular weight gelator
RSC Advances, 2025
DOI: 10.1039/D4RA08575B
→ Highlights: Focus on low molecular weight gelators with antimicrobial activity.Investigating the potent antimicrobial properties of a supramolecular Zn(II)-metallogel formed from an isophthalic acid-based low molecular weight gelator
RSC Advances, 2025
DOI: 10.1039/D5RA03663A
→ Highlights: Antibacterial performance and soft material engineering.Investigating the potential of a self-healing semiconducting supramolecular Mg(II)-metallohydrogel in non-volatile memory design and its therapeutic properties towards bacteria-infected wound healing
Materials Advances, 2025
DOI: 10.1039/D4MA01238K
→ Highlights: Combines electronics, soft matter, and medical applications.Recent strategies for controlling the white mould fungal pathogen (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) using gene silencing, botanical fungicides and nanomaterials
Sustainable Food Technology, 2025
DOI: 10.1039/D4FB00348A
→ Highlights: Interdisciplinary approach to sustainable crop protection.
Strengths for the Best Innovator Award
Innovative Development of Dual-Functional Metallogels
Dr. Ajiboye has pioneered the design and synthesis of supramolecular metallogels that uniquely combine antimicrobial properties with semiconducting behavior. These materials have transformative potential for both healthcare—through infection control—and advanced electronics, such as microelectronic devices and non-volatile memory. His work pushes the boundaries of soft material science by integrating multifunctionality and self-healing properties, marking a significant step forward in nanotechnology and material innovation.Advancement of Green Nanotechnologies for Water Remediation
Through his research on eco-friendly photocatalysts and functionalized nanomaterials, Dr. Ajiboye has developed effective, scalable, and low-cost solutions for removing heavy metals, dyes, and pharmaceutical contaminants from polluted water. His work emphasizes green synthesis methods and sustainability, directly addressing critical global challenges in water security, environmental pollution, and public health. These innovations contribute to the realization of sustainable development goals by providing practical technologies for clean water access.Industrial Application of Organometallic Complexes
Dr. Ajiboye’s work on Indium(III) complexes demonstrates innovative use of organometallic chemistry to create versatile catalysts and nanoparticle precursors. This research bridges fundamental inorganic chemistry with practical industrial applications, facilitating environmentally friendly catalytic processes and novel material production. His contributions have broad relevance to chemical manufacturing, green synthesis, and nanotechnology industries, making significant strides in linking academic research to real-world industrial challenges.Interdisciplinary Innovation in Sustainable Agriculture
By integrating nanotechnology, gene silencing techniques, and botanical fungicides, Dr. Ajiboye has developed novel, eco-conscious approaches to managing crop diseases such as white mould caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. His interdisciplinary strategy reduces reliance on harmful synthetic chemicals, promoting sustainable crop protection methods. This work enhances food security and supports environmental health, representing forward-thinking innovation at the intersection of agriculture, biotechnology, and nanoscience.Leadership in Research Capacity Building and Community Impact
Dr. Ajiboye’s innovation extends beyond laboratory research into leadership roles in education and community development. He has actively mentored numerous postgraduate students, facilitated academic writing workshops, and contributed to curriculum development. Through these efforts, he fosters scientific capacity building and encourages the translation of cutting-edge research into locally relevant solutions. His dedication to community engagement and knowledge transfer exemplifies innovation in scientific leadership and sustainable development.