In an enthralling inaugural lecture titled, “Dancing on Shifting Carpets: Between Molecules and Devices,” Professor Akinniyi Adediran Osuntoki, a renowned Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), redefined how we view science; not as a static pursuit, but as a delicate, dynamic dance between precision and possibility.
He invited the audience, gathered at the Tayo Aderinokun Lecture Theatre of the University and those who joined virtually, into a world where the invisible becomes impactful: a world where molecules, unseen by the naked eye, become powerful agents of change when paired with devices that extend human ingenuity.
Through his lecture, held on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, Professor Osuntoki revealed how molecules converse within living organisms and their surroundings, weaving silent dialogues that sustain life. According to him, these microscopic exchanges orchestrate vital functions, respond to environmental cues, and often hold solutions to humanity’s greatest challenges.
From ensuring food security to improving public health and restoring ecosystems, his research demonstrates that within nature’s smallest units lie remedies for many of the wounds inflicted on our environment.
A major highlight of the lecture was his exploration of the synergy between molecules and devices; how human innovation amplifies molecular signals, transforming them into diagnostic tools, energy solutions, and sustainable technologies. This integration of discovery and design opens pathways for breakthroughs in medicine, environmental stewardship, and biotechnology, showcasing how curiosity and creativity work hand in hand to push the boundaries of possibility.
Yet, Professor Osuntoki did not shy away from addressing the “shifting carpets” confronting researchers across Africa. He spoke candidly about the growing technological gaps, uncertain funding, and the urgent need to bridge the divide between laboratory discoveries and real-world applications. But rather than discouragement, his words carried a charge for resilience and innovation. Quoting Thomas F. Crum, he reminded us that, “Instead of seeing the rug being pulled from under us, we can learn to dance on a shifting carpet.”
For the University of Lagos, this message was both a challenge and a call to action: to remain not only a stage where groundbreaking research is showcased but also a steward that nurtures innovation, builds capacity, and empowers scientists to lead Africa’s response to global challenges.
Professor Osuntoki’s lecture culminated in a bold declaration: “Biotechnology is the next industrial revolution; we must not miss the train.” His words echo a sense of urgency and possibility.
Having expounded earlier in his lecture that his field of study, Biochemistry, is a love child of Biology and Chemistry, he made a case for how Artificial Intelligence is going to be the next big step in Biochemistry and how Biotechnology will be the driver of that phase. He, in fact, characterised his area of specialisation into two aspects: Biotechnology and Molecular Biology.
Biotechnology, he explained, holds the power to transform healthcare, agriculture, energy systems, and environmental solutions. According to Professor Osuntoki, the opportunity for Nigeria, and Africa at large, to lead is within reach, but only if we commit to investment, collaboration, and visionary action today.
With his illuminating insights, Professor Osuntoki reminded us that science is more than experiments and equations; it is a dance of ideas, of molecules and machines, of human curiosity and nature’s profound design. And as we navigate these shifting carpets, his charge to us is clear: we must learn to move with agility, adapt with wisdom, and innovate with purpose, for within this dance lies the promise of Africa’s future.
About Professor Akinniyi Adediran Osuntoki
Born on Tuesday, February 22, 1966, the Inaugural Lecturer, Professor Akinniyi Adediran Osuntoki, is a thorough-bred alumnus of UNILAG with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry (1986); M.Phil. in Biochemistry with Specialisation in Protein chemistry/Enzymology (1991); and Ph.D. in Biochemistry with Specialisation in Biotechnology/Molecular Biology (1998).
He began his academic career as a Graduate Assistant in the Department of Biochemistry, CMUL and became Assistant Lecturer in 1994; Lecturer II in 1999; Lecturer I in 2001; Senior Lecturer in 2008; Associate Professor in 2012 and Professor in 2016.
Together with a team of researchers, Professor Osuntoki has since patented: a Smartphone Application for Preventing Musculoskeletal Conditions among Undergraduates with Smartphone Addiction (2020/2021), and a Developed Thick Dual-Slot Antenna Microwave Ablation of Breast Tumour and Other Soft Tissues (2019).
As someone who first set foot into the University of Lagos as a young boy filled with hopes and aspirations, today, as a deeply experienced and fully grounded 59-year old Professor in his field, Professor Osuntoki is the current Dean of the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL). His long-term vision is to position the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, CMUL as a centre of excellence in multidisciplinary healthcare research and education; a centre that drives national development through innovation, community impact, and global collaboration.
Professor Osuntoki is happily married and blessed with children.
Author: Nike Ogunshakin
Photographer: Joshua Michael
Article Editor: Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem
One Response
Congratulations Prof. Osuntoki