Adesola Adegoke, a Nigerian scholar and researcher at Arizona State University, has been awarded the prestigious Trent R. Dames and William W. Moore Fellowship by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). The distinguished award comes with a $10,500 research grant, recognising his cutting-edge work in sustainable geotechnical engineering.
The announcement, conveyed through an official letter signed by ASCE Executive Director, Thomas W. Smith, applauded Adegoke’s pioneering proposal. His research focuses on the development of mycelium-based bio-materials, designed as eco-friendly alternatives to conventional construction materials.
“These innovative bio-materials demonstrate strong potential in critical applications such as slope stabilisation and erosion mitigation, while offering impressive structural capabilities alongside environmental advantages,” the letter read.
Adegoke, who earned his Civil Engineering degree from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), expressed enthusiasm about the recognition. He explained that his research aims to optimise mycelium-based materials using cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to advance geotechnical engineering practices.
“This research targets pressing issues in infrastructure durability and sustainable engineering,” Adegoke stated. “By merging biotechnology with AI and geotechnical principles, I am working to create biodegradable materials that outperform traditional construction options, while drastically reducing environmental impact.”
Highlighting the uniqueness of his study, Adegoke said it blends biotechnology, civil engineering, and computational techniques, presenting a transformative approach to sustainable construction in the face of escalating global climate concerns.
“Mycelium-based materials, unlike conventional construction inputs that leave significant carbon footprints, offer biodegradable, low-impact alternatives with remarkable life cycle benefits, positioning them as ideal solutions for green infrastructure,” he explained.
Educa.ng reports that, Adegoke also reflected on the significance of the ASCE fellowship, which was established in 1990 in honour of renowned engineering legends, Trent R. Dames and William W. Moore. He emphasised that the fellowship supports research that addresses pressing social, environmental, and economic challenges through innovative engineering.
His achievement has been widely celebrated, particularly within academic circles, as a testament to the global impact of Nigerian scholars advancing sustainable engineering solutions.
