Professor Nwadiuto Esiobu Teaching and Mentoring the Next Generation of Scientists

Nwadiuto Esiobu, Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, oversees the Esiobu Microbial Biotech Laboratory, which seeks to power discovery, create solutions and produce competent workers for global economies. Esiobu’s research interests are in molecular microbial ecology and biotechnology, microbiomes of humans and plants, environmental (beach) quality and public health, and synthetic biology and rapid detection and diagnostic platforms. 

In addition to her teaching and research, which Esiobu has been performing at FAU for 26 years, she has mentored numerous undergraduate and graduate students during her time with the University, earning recognition for this tremendous work. She was named a Distinguished International Mentor by the American Society for Microbiology, and she was also recognized by the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science for excellence in mentoring. 

Esiobu also founded OWLGEMS, a multidisciplinary team of undergraduate researchers, and is also the founding mentor for the FAU students’ chapter of the American Society for Microbiology.

What are some accomplishments that stand out to you?

One of the highlights of my career was being selected by the National Academy of Science as a Jefferson Science Fellow, to serve as a senior science advisor in Global Food Security and International Health Bureaus of the U.S. Department of State. Equally fulfilling is the opportunity I have had to teach microbiology to over 3,000 students and train a highly-skilled workforce in biotechnology for the local, national and international economies.  

How do you feel you are shaping the next generation of scientists?

I emphasize the culture of learning how to learn. My lab does not just embrace diversity, it is diversity, hosting students from at least seven countries every semester. From experimental design to execution and data interpretation, my research students are trained to be wholesome scientists with broad perspectives who respect and celebrate others. Briefly put, my Owls find out that there is strength in their wings after feeding on my grains and fly like eagles, excelling in the careers of their choosing. 

I am raising a formidable squad of Owls to possess the future! This is my calling – shaping the future  – one Owl at a time!