By Racheal Olatayo
As the global community continues to prioritize advancements in animal science and agriculture, Dr. Iyabo Wuraola Oluseyifunmi has emerged as a key contributor, renowned for her expertise in poultry science, nutrition, and animal well-being. Dr. Oluseyifunmi, a skilled nutritionist and physiologist, specializes in exploring the intricate connections between diet, physiology, environment, and animal health, making significant strides in advancing the sector.
With a commitment to translating research into practical insights for stakeholders, Dr. Oluseyifunmi’s work is dedicated to enhancing both animal health and the agricultural industry.
With a Ph.D. in Poultry Science from the University of Georgia, Athens, USA, where she researched the nutritional and physiological aspects of resistant starch as a functional fiber in diets for broiler chickens.
“I am passionate about finding sustainable solutions to improve animal health, which in turn benefits the agricultural sector as a whole,” Dr. Oluseyifunmi stated. “My research focuses on optimizing feed formulations to strengthen the immune responses of animals under stress and disease conditions, and I am committed to translating research findings into practical insights for stakeholders. I am eager to contribute to projects that advance animal science, benefiting both animal health and the agricultural sector, she said.
Dr. Oluseyifunmi’s academic journey is rooted in Nigeria, where she obtained both her Master degree in Agricultural Technology, specializing in Animal Reproductive and Environmental Physiology, and her Bachelor’s degree in Animal Production and Health, both from the Federal University of Technology in Akure. Her research on the physiological and reproductive responses of pubertal female rabbits to cerium oxide-supplemented diets, and her thesis on the impact of Haemonchus contortus on sheep health, laid the foundation for her current studies.
In addition to her academic achievements, Dr. Oluseyifunmi has extensive professional experience. She served as a lecturer and researcher at Adekunle Ajasin University in Akungba-Akoko, Nigeria, from 2013 to 2021 before she travelled for her doctoral degree. Her time as a faculty member involved teaching, conducting research, and contributing to the development of the next generation of animal scientists. She also worked as an Assistant Examiner for Agricultural Science with the West African Examinations Council from 2010 to 2015, further solidifying her role in education and research.
“I have always believed that a strong educational foundation is essential for advancing scientific knowledge,” Dr. Oluseyifunmi explained. “As a lecturer, I was fortunate to guide students in exploring the dynamic field of animal science, critically engaging them with both theory and practical applications.”
Her ability to blend research with practical applications in the field is one of the reasons why her work has had such a positive impact on the agricultural sector.
“I’ve always been driven by the need to improve animal nutrition in ways that are both scientifically sound and practically viable,” Dr. Oluseyifunmi remarked. “The data I collect and analyze helps bridge the gap between research and real-world applications, ensuring that what we discover in the lab can benefit farmers and the industry at large.”
Dr. Oluseyifunmi’s research interests extend beyond poultry science, encompassing a variety of topics including nutrient metabolism, gut microbiota, digestion, and immunity. Her studies on dietary interventions to optimize immune responses during disease outbreaks have positioned her as a sought-after expert in the field.
Her innovative contributions to animal science have been recognized at multiple international conferences, where she has presented numerous articles on her findings.
“Having benefitted from awards that sponsored my presentations at conferences, afforded me the opportunity to engage with other experts, share ideas, and build a network of professionals who are equally committed to advancing the field of animal science,” she said.
Dr. Oluseyifunmi’s research has also focused on optimizing feed formulations to improve animal health, particularly in response to stress and disease. “The goal is to ensure that animals receive the right nutrients to thrive in both normal and challenging environments. This can significantly reduce the reliance on antibiotics, promoting more sustainable farming practices,” she added.
Looking forward, Dr. Oluseyifunmi remains committed to advancing animal science, particularly in the areas of nutrition and immunity. “The challenges facing agriculture today require innovative solutions, and I am determined to contribute to this effort,” she concluded.
