Kazeem Adekunle Alayande
Multimedia Subcommittee
North-West University

What is your research interest? What organism do you work with, and what do you want to do in the future? 

My research interests lie in the antimicrobial resistance profiling of pathogens and the development of biopharmaceuticals to combat infectious diseases. In the past, I have investigated bioactive compounds of plant origin, probiotics, and bioactive peptides derived from lactic acid bacteria and endophytes. Currently, I work with early-divergent fungi, particularly members of Mucoromycota (i.e., Glomeromycotina, Mucoromycotina, and Mortierellomycotina). The project explores their biodiversity, focusing on how ancient, coevolved, and endosymbiotic bacteria influence the ecological and evolutionary diversifications of these fungi across spatial scales. This aims to clarify the role of the symbioses in fungal evolution and community assemblage, given the central importance of Mucoromycota subphyla in global carbon and nutrient cycling, and their commercial utility.

Looking ahead, I plan to continue exploring bioactive metabolites from endophytes and other environmental isolates (both bacteria and fungi) as part of a broader effort to address the global burden of infectious diseases. I am also interested in the application of endophytes in sustainable environmental practices, particularly wastewater treatment, bioremediation, and biocleaning of polluted sites. For example, their use in disinfecting irrigation water and removing heavy metal could reduce crop contamination and improve food safety in an environmentally friendly way.

As a PhD-trained scientist, you have many career options. What interests you the most? 

I find fulfillment in the dual role of science discovery and mentorship that a faculty position offers. Thus, I am drawn to a career in academia or research institutes where I can integrate my passion for both teaching and research. Nonetheless, my options are open to a wide spectrum of career paths in industries, government, or science communication. 

My research interests are rooted in addressing pressing global challenges, such as antimicrobial resistance, the search for novel bioactive compounds, and the ecological roles of fungi and their symbionts in sustaining ecosystems. I am fascinated by how microbial diversity and microbial interactions contribute to both human health and environmental sustainability. This line of research not only has immediate biomedical applications, but also carries long-term ecological and agricultural significance. As a faculty member, I aspire to build an interdisciplinary research program that advances knowledge in these areas while training students to think critically and pursue innovative solutions.

Equally important to me is the teaching dimension of academia. Teaching is an opportunity to inspire curiosity and empower students with necessary analytical skills. Engaging students with real-world problems and exposing them to research early in their academic journey can transform classrooms into hubs of creativity and collaboration. Teaching and mentorship are central to this vision because guiding students through both successes and challenges cultivates resilience and lifelong learning. Ultimately, a faculty career offers a balance between advancing scientific discovery and shaping future generations of scientists. Thus, an opportunity to contribute to the world of knowledge while fostering growth in others resonates with my long-term professional and personal goals.

In addition to your research, how do you want to advance the scientific enterprise? 

Beyond research, advancing science is a collective effort that requires effective outreach and collaboration. I plan to contribute by promoting open science practices, engaging in community-based research, and building partnerships that translate scientific findings into societal benefit. For instance, my work on microbial biodiversity and bioactive metabolites has direct relevance to human health, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. By disseminating knowledge through publications, conferences, and community outreach programs, I aim to strengthen the bridge between research and practice, ensuring that science serves not only as a driver of discovery but also as a means to address real-world challenges.

Additionally, preparing the next generation of scientists is central to advancing the scientific enterprise. I intend to be actively involved in organizing workshops and training programs for graduate students within and beyond my community. Such initiatives will provide students with technical expertise, career development opportunities, and a broader scientific perspective—ultimately helping them build successful careers while contributing to collective scientific progress.

As a leader within the Genetics Society of America, what do you hope to accomplish? 

I hope to further commit to continuously advocating for the importance of genetics research and its role in addressing global challenges related to health, sustainable agriculture, and environmental wellbeing. I aim to foster an inclusive and supportive collaborative research network that connects researchers with shared interests. Additionally, I will help to raise awareness of the various mentorship opportunities offered by GSA to graduate students and early career scientists which is crucial to supporting their career development.

I will dedicate myself to actively contributing to the Society’s mission of communicating genetics research to the public, educators, and policymakers. I will also seek to strengthen international collaborations to broaden GSA’s global impact. Finally, I aspire to contribute meaningfully towards ensuring the Society remains forward-looking and continues to provide resources necessary to prepare the next generation of geneticists.

Previous leadership experience

During my mandatory one year of the National Youth Service Corps after my first degree, I served as the president of the Muslim corps members in my state of deployment, while also holding the position of general secretary for the zone, which comprised five different states. Later, during my PhD program at the North-West University, I joined a lab with a large research group. From my second year onward, I served as the lab manager, responsible for coordinating and overseeing all research activities within the group.

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