Dr. Ayotunde A. Ojo is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in renewable energy, particularly photovoltaics, and advanced materials. He has been a faculty member at the Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria, since February 2012 and currently serves as the pioneering Acting Head of the Department of Mechatronics Engineering. Dr. Ayotunde Ojo began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng) degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Ado-Ekiti (now Ekiti State University) in 2005. His commitment to academic excellence led him to pursue a Master of Engineering (M.Eng) degree at Sheffield Hallam University, United Kingdom, which he completed in 2010. He further advanced his education by earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in 2017 from the same Institution, where he specialized in photovoltaics and the development of low-cost thin-film deposition processes for energy materials.

During his PhD program, Dr. Ojo conducted groundbreaking research in areas such as surface and interface engineering, graded band-gap structures, and Fermi level alignment, leveraging multidisciplinary approaches that combined solid-state physics, electronics, and materials engineering. His research interests focus on developing and stabilizing low-cost methods for fabricating thin-film solar cells through electrodeposition, as well as innovating materials for energy applications and composite development. His work embodies the overarching theme of waste-to-wealth by integrating experimental methodologies and materials characterization techniques to promote sustainability in energy and materials engineering.

Dr. Ojo’s academic and professional achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including a PhD Scholarship under the Academic Staff Training and Development (AST&D) program in 2014. He was twice named the Best Research Student with the Highest Academic Output at Sheffield Hallam University in 2017 and 2018 and was also recognized as the Best Nigerian Research Student at the institution during the 2017/2018 academic year. He has published over 70 peer-reviewed articles in highly reputable journals such as Elsevier, Springer, MDPI, and Taylor & Francis, demonstrating his broad expertise across multiple disciplines. In addition to his extensive publication record, he has authored a book “Next Generation Multilayer Graded Bandgap Solar Cells” and presented his research findings at International Conferences, contributing over 20 notable outputs to global academic discussions. Dr. Ayotunde Ojo also serves as a reviewer for both International and Local academic Journals, further underscoring his dedication to advancing the field through rigorous peer-reviewed research.

A registered Engineer with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Dr. Ojo is also a member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), and the International Solar Energy Society (ISES). His active participation in these professional bodies highlights his commitment to staying at the forefront of engineering advancements.

Dr. Ayotunde Ojo has made significant contributions to Ekiti State University through his various academic and administrative roles. He has served as the University’s Director of the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) from 2021 to 2023, Staff Adviser to the Nigerian University Engineering Students Association (NUESA) from 2018 to 2023, and Faculty Student Work Experience Program (SWEP) Coordinator during the 2019/2020 academic session. He has also been involved in key Committees, such as the Committee on the Establishment of New Programmes and Departments, and served as the Departmental Postgraduate Diploma Coordinator and Secretary in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

As Acting Head of the Department of Mechatronics Engineering, Dr. Ojo is committed to strengthening academic programs, enhancing research capabilities, and fostering collaborations with industry and international partners. His vision is to position the Department as a hub of innovation and excellence, equipping students with multidisciplinary knowledge and practical skills to address global challenges in automation, robotics, and intelligent systems. Known for his dedication to teaching and mentorship, he has guided numerous students in Engineering and related disciplines, fostering innovative thinking and problem-solving skills that empower them to excel academically and professionally. Dr. Ojo’s leadership embodies a forward-thinking approach, ensuring that the Department remains at the cutting edge of technological advancements.