Joseph Olayemi Olajide

The Olajide Lab

Research Interests

Dr. Olajide's research program builds on a diverse background in human anatomy, cellular neuroscience, and molecular neurobiology. Employing cutting-edge behavioural assessments, molecular biology, immuno-labelling, electrophysiology, and classical biochemical techniques, the program is directed at generating novel insights into the neurobiological mechanisms underlying learning and memory deficits in normal aging and the progression of diseases like Alzheimer’s (AD). A major focus is on uncovering the unique drivers of pathobiology across different neuronal subpopulations and the intermediary mechanisms that affect cellular functions. Dr. Olajide’s research investigates intrinsic factors contributing to cellular vulnerability, including sex-based determinant factors, aiming to identify molecular targets and apply pharmacological approaches within pathophysiological pathways, such as oxidative redox imbalance, inflammatory processes, NMDA signalling dysregulation, and disruptions in cholinergic transmission.

Current research themes include:

• Deciphering the mechanisms underlying vulnerability to synaptic degeneration in normal aging and AD
• Impact of perturbed sex hormones on synaptic functions and implications for AD pathogenesis.
• Pathobiological roles of exposure to environmental factors/toxins and selective vulnerability in AD.

Both graduate and undergraduate students make important contributions to this research. Please contact Dr. Olajide if you are interested in conducting a thesis project, graduate studies or postdoctoral research in the lab.

Teaching Philosophy

Dr. Olajide’s teaching and training philosophy for over a decade centers on fostering an engaging classroom and lab environment that nurtures students’ interests and curiosity in scientific learning and knowledge creation. He is committed to providing precise education and supporting students in achieving their academic and career goals by encouraging open communication and promoting inclusivity. Through this approach, he has developed a successful teaching style in human anatomy, cell biology and neuroscience over the years, consistently helping students make measurable progress.

Educational Background

• Postdoctoral Research
• Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology (CSBN), Department of Psychology, Concordia University
• International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB)-Trieste

• Postgraduate Training
• Ph.D., 2016, College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin
• Visiting Doctoral Research Scholar, 2015, Division of Biosciences, University College London
• M.Sc., 2011, College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin

• Undergraduate
• B.Sc., 2008, College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin

Publications

PubMed