Adeoluwa Olasehinde, a Nigerian-born environmental scientist, is gaining global recognition for his pioneering work in sustainable agriculture and hydroponic farming. With a professional footprint spanning Nigeria, the United States, and global research platforms, Olasehinde has led transformative projects in indoor farming, environmental health, and agricultural automation.
A graduate of Gannon University’s Environmental Science and Management program, Olasehinde developed hydroponic systems that reduced water consumption by 90% while increasing crop yields. At Eriez Manufacturing, he helped develop a magnetic separation system for nutrient recovery, contributing to multiple patent applications and cutting-edge agricultural research.
Q1: Adeoluwa, you’ve been recognized as a leader in hydroponic farming and sustainable agricultural systems. What inspired you to pursue this path?
A1: Growing up in Nigeria, I witnessed firsthand the challenges of food insecurity, water scarcity, and environmental degradation. My interest in science, especially biochemistry, naturally evolved into a passion for sustainable agriculture. I became fascinated by how controlled-environment farming, such as hydroponics, can be used to produce food efficiently while conserving resources. This curiosity led to my academic and professional journey in environmental science and hydroponics, where I now design systems that are resource-efficient and high-yielding.
Q2: You’ve led several high-impact projects at Grow Erie and Eriez Manufacturing. Could you elaborate on one that stands out?
A2: One of the most transformative projects I worked on was the integration of magnetic separation technology into nutrient recycling systems. At Eriez Manufacturing, I led the research and design team that developed this technology, which enhanced nutrient retention and significantly reduced water usage. It not only improved yield but reduced operational costs by 20%. This work supported multiple patent applications and showcased the potential of combining physics and agriculture to solve real-world challenges.
Q3: Your work has been published extensively and covered by major media outlets. What do you think sets your research apart?
A3: I believe what makes my research unique is its interdisciplinary nature. I combine biotechnology, IoT systems, and environmental chemistry to address global agricultural problems. For instance, my publications explore topics like CO₂-supplemented hydroponics, biodegradable growth media, and AI-optimized light systems—all pushing the boundaries of indoor farming. The media attention these studies have received, from Vanguard to The Guardian and HortiDaily, reflects the real-world relevance and innovation embedded in my work.
Q4: Many in academia and government now consult you as a reviewer and judge. What does this recognition mean to you professionally?
A4: Being selected as a reviewer for journals like Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems and as a judge for the Ohio and Virginia Academies of Science is a humbling recognition of my scientific credibility. It affirms that my peers view me as someone with the expertise to evaluate high-level research. For me, it also represents a responsibility—to uphold scientific standards, mentor the next generation, and contribute to the growth of global agricultural science.
Q5: What roles do technology and automation play in your vision for agriculture’s future?
A5: Technology is at the core of the transformation we need. I’m currently focused on developing IoT-integrated hydroponic systems that automatically adjust environmental parameters—light, temperature, nutrients—based on real-time sensor data. These systems increase efficiency, reduce labor costs, and make farming possible in urban areas where land is limited. Automation also allows us to scale food production sustainably, even in climate-challenged regions.
Q6: Your work has directly impacted communities, especially in education and development. Can you tell us more about that?
A6: Absolutely. Through my work with YEDI and the National Youth Service Corps in Nigeria, I’ve led numerous youth empowerment and environmental campaigns. At Gannon University, I introduced hydroponics into classroom labs and trained students in sustainable farming practices. Recently, I advocated for the installation of hydroponic systems in schools to combat malnutrition and youth unemployment. My goal is to democratize access to clean food and green technology.
Q7: Your accolades are impressive—from international publications to “Global Student of the Year.” What’s next for you?
A7: I’m focused on expanding the reach of sustainable agricultural systems through entrepreneurship, policy, and education. I plan to establish scalable hydroponic hubs in underserved communities globally and develop curriculum-based solutions for integrating environmental science into school systems. In the long term, I aim to bridge academic innovation with real-world impact, shaping policies, mentoring future leaders, and building a resilient food system for the next generation.
