In the quest for sustainable solutions to global challenges, researchers like Tawakalt Ayodele are leading the charge. As a doctoral researcher at North Dakota State University, U.S.A., Tawakalt is pushing the boundaries of bioproducts research, focusing on microbial protein production using lignocellulosic biomass feedstock.
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With a strong academic background in microbiology and biotechnology, Tawakalt’s research journey has taken her from Nigeria to Poland and now the United States. Her work has been driven by a passion for sustainable bioprocessing and a commitment to developing innovative solutions for a more environmentally friendly future.

In this interview, Tawakalt shares her insights on the significance of her research, the challenges she has faced, and her vision for the future of sustainable bioproducts. She also offers advice for early-career researchers and students interested in pursuing a career in this exciting field.

Can you tell us a little about your background and how you became interested in bio products research?

I am a doctoral researcher at North Dakota State University, United States. I hold a master’s degree in biotechnology from Warsaw University of Technology, Poland, through the Polish Agency for Academic Exchange Award, and a bachelor’s degree in microbiology from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso. My interest in bioproduct research began during my time at the Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences. While analysing bacterial genomes using bioinformatics tools, I identified genes coding for various bioactive compounds with potential applications in medicine, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. This discovery sparked my curiosity about microbial metabolites and how to harness them for innovative bioproducts. Currently, at NDSU, my research focuses on microbial protein production using Klebsiella oxytoca M5A1, a nitrogen-fixing bacterium. I work on optimising fermentation processes to enhance protein and metabolite yields from agricultural residues and waste biomass. My goal is to develop sustainable bioprocessing techniques that can convert organic waste into valuable bioproducts, reducing environmental impact and promoting a circular bioeconomy.

What motivated you to pursue a Ph.D. in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at North Dakota State University?

I am pursuing a Ph.D. in Environmental Science while working as a researcher in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at North Dakota State University. My motivation stems from my deep interest in sustainable bioproduct production and the need to develop efficient bioprocesses that convert agricultural residues and waste biomass into valuable products. My background in microbiology and biotechnology exposed me to the potential of microbial systems in producing bioactive compounds. However, I realized that scaling up these processes for industrial applications requires an interdisciplinary approach—integrating microbiology, bioprocess engineering, and environmental sustainability. NDSU provides the perfect environment for this research due to its strong focus on applied biosystems engineering, access to advanced fermentation facilities, and collaborative opportunities with experts in bioprocessing and bioengineering. My goal is to contribute to the development of innovative, cost-effective, and eco-friendly methods for bioproduct production, ultimately reducing environmental impact.
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Your research focuses on producing microbial protein using lignocellulosic biomass feedstock as a carbon source. Can you explain the significance of this research and its potential applications?

Microbial protein production using lignocellulosic biomass as a carbon source is a promising approach to addressing global challenges related to food security, sustainable bioprocessing, and waste management. Lignocellulosic biomass, which includes agricultural residues and waste plant materials, is an abundant and renewable resource that can serve as a low-cost alternative to conventional feedstock for microbial cultivation. This research is significant because it enables the production of high-quality protein without relying on traditional agricultural inputs, reducing competition with food crops. Microbial protein can be used as an alternative protein source for animal feed, aquaculture, and even human nutrition. This offers a sustainable solution to meet the rising demand for protein. Additionally, the process generates valuable co-products such as organic acids and bioactive metabolites, which have applications in pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and industrial biotechnology. By optimizing fermentation conditions and microbial metabolism, my research aims to enhance protein yields, improve process efficiency, and make microbial protein production a viable and scalable alternative to conventional protein sources.

How does your research contribute to the development of sustainable and eco-friendly solutions?

My research contributes to sustainability by utilising agricultural residues and waste biomass, which would otherwise contribute to environmental pollution, as a resource for microbial protein production. This approach promotes waste valorization and supports a circular bioeconomy by transforming underutilised biomass into valuable bioproducts.

Furthermore, microbial protein production has a significantly lower environmental footprint compared to conventional protein sources such as livestock farming, which requires large amounts of land, water, and feed while contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. By developing an efficient fermentation process that maximises resource utilisation and minimises waste generation, my work helps create an eco-friendly alternative to traditional protein production. Additionally, my research explores process optimisation strategies, such as integrating nitrogen-fixing bacteria and advanced bioprocessing techniques, to reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers and enhance overall sustainability. These efforts align with global goals for reducing carbon emissions, promoting renewable resources, and advancing environmentally responsible biomanufacturing practices.

Can you walk us through some of your notable publications in bio products research? What were the key findings and takeaways from these studies?

I have published three articles as the first author and co-authored four others, contributing to advancements in bioproducts research. I also have unpublished research which has been patented with Polish patent office and under review for international patent. Some of my notable publications include: ‘Microbial Protein Production Using Lignocellulosic Biomass (Switchgrass) and Klebsiella oxytoca M5A1—A Nitrogen Fixer’ This study explored a sustainable method for producing microbial protein (MP) using switchgrass, an agricultural residue, as a carbon source and Klebsiella oxytoca M5A1 as a nitrogen source. Instead of relying on costly synthetic nitrogen sources, the bacterium was able to fix atmospheric nitrogen and utilise sugars from the processed biomass for protein production. The process also generated beneficial organic acids, which played a role in sustaining microbial growth and enhancing protein yield. This study demonstrates an eco- friendly and cost-effective approach to microbial protein and organic acids production, reducing reliance on conventional protein and organic acids sources and supporting a circular economy. ‘Microbial Protein and Metabolite Profiles of Klebsiella oxytoca M5A1 in a Bubble Column Bioreactor’

This study investigated the metabolic profile of K. oxytoca M5A1 in a bubble column bioreactor, a scalable fermentation system. The study demonstrated how aeration and bioreactor design significantly influence protein yield and metabolite production, with oxygen availability and mixing dynamics playing critical roles. The key findings showed that oxygen availability and mixing dynamics significantly impact protein yield and metabolite production. The takeaway was that optimising bioreactor conditions, such as aeration and mixing, can enhance microbial protein production efficiency, making it a viable and sustainable solution for large-scale industrial use. ‘Biomass-Based Microbial Protein Production: A Review of Processing and Properties’ This review article provided a comprehensive analysis of microbial protein production using biomass feedstocks. It discussed processing techniques, microbial strains, and the nutritional and functional properties of microbial proteins. The review emphasised the potential of microbial protein as a sustainable alternative to conventional protein sources. The key finding is that biomass-derived microbial protein has the potential to address global protein demand sustainably while reducing environmental impact.

Evaluation and Characterisation of a bacteria Strain for Its Probiotic Properties in a”Probiogenomics” Context

This study found a bacteria strain that could be a good probiotic. It can survive the harshconditions of the stomach, stick well to the gut lining, and produce helpful substances like vitamins and natural antibiotics. Genetic analysis confirmed that it is safe and does not carry harmful genes. These findings suggest that these bacteria could be useful in probiotic supplements, food products and for the treatment of intestinal cancer. The strain has been patented with the Polish Patent Office (P.443929) and submitted to the International Patent Office.
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What have been some of the most significant challenges you’ve faced during your research journey, and how have you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges I have faced in my research journey is optimising microbial growth and protein production using unconventional feedstocks like lignocellulosic biomass. Working with raw biomass requires extensive pre treatment to break it down into a usable form, and finding the right conditions to maximise microbial efficiency was a major hurdle. Additionally, ensuring reproducibility in large-scale experiments was challenging due to variations in biomass composition. To overcome these challenges, I conducted extensive preliminary experiments to fine-tune pretreatment methods and fermentation conditions. I also leveraged analytical tools like HPLC to track glucose utilisation and organic acid production, helping me understand microbial metabolism better. Collaborating with experts in bioprocessing and seeking feedback from peers also played a crucial role in troubleshooting experimental setbacks and improving my approach.

Can you share any notable collaborations or mentors that have helped shape your research career?

I have had the privilege of working with outstanding mentors and collaborators who have significantly shaped my research journey. My work has benefited from collaborations with experts in lactic acid biotechnology, biomolecular engineering, bioprocessing, and microbiology. These collaborations have provided valuable insights into optimising microbial fermentation, enhancing bioproduct yield, and developing sustainable solutions. By integrating knowledge from these diverse fields, I have been able to advance research in microbial protein production and the broader application of microbial-derived products for industrial and environmental benefits.

What are your future research plans and goals? How do you see your work evolving in the next 5 to 10 years?

In the next 5 to 10 years, my research will focus on making the production of microbial bioproducts more sustainable and efficient. I plan to improve fermentation processes, discover new microbial strains, and use advanced tools like metabolic engineering and CRISPR to enhance these microbes. A major goal is to scale up these processes to make microbial protein production more cost-effective and practical for large-scale use. Beyond food and feed, I also want to explore how microbial bioproducts can be used in other areas, such as bioplastics, biofuels, and even medicines. By combining scientific research with real-world applications, I hope to create sustainable solutions that benefit both industry and the environment.

How do you envision your research contributing to real-world solutions and impacting society?

My research focuses on finding solutions to big global problems like food shortages, environmental damage, and waste management. I work on creating protein from microbes using leftover farm waste and other natural materials. This provides a greener alternative to traditional protein sources like meat, which require a lot of resources and harm the environment. By improving how we grow these microbes, we can also make sustainablebproducts like biofuels, biodegradable materials, and eco-friendly chemicals. In short, my research helps turn waste into useful products, reduces harm to the planet, and supports a more sustainable future for everyone.

What advice would you give to early-career researchers or students interested in pursuing a career in bio products research?

I would advise early-career researchers and students to stay curious and open to learning.

Bioproducts research is an evolving field that combines microbiology, biotechnology, and environmental science, so having a strong foundation in these areas is important. Gaining hands-on experience in laboratories, seeking mentorship from experienced researchers, and collaborating across disciplines can help accelerate growth. Additionally, staying updated with the latest scientific advancements and being persistent in problem-solving will be key to making meaningful contributions. Most importantly, be patient and resilient—research takes time, but the impact on sustainability and innovation is worth the effort.
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