Meet Esther Oluwagbenga | PhD Student, Purdue University

We had the good fortune of connecting with Esther Oluwagbenga and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Esther, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
Growing up in Nigeria with a strong agricultural background, I was exposed to the profound importance of the land and its resources. This early exposure ignited a passion for agriculture and my career in animal sciences. My upbringing instilled in me the belief that education, passion, and hard work are the keys to unlocking one’s potential. This core principle has guided me throughout my career. I recognized that by continuously seeking knowledge and honing my skills, I would contribute meaningfully to the field of animal sciences. In a world where challenges are inevitable, my background taught me resilience and adaptability. These qualities proved invaluable in my pursuit of success. Whether it was overcoming research obstacles, addressing the complexities of any project, or providing solutions, I approached each challenge with determination and a solution-oriented mindset. The fusion of my agricultural background with my pursuit of education and hard work has been the driving force behind my success and continued growth. I am grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to bridge cultures, inspire others, and make a tangible impact in a field that resonates deeply with me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am currently a PhD student at Purdue University, specializing in animal sciences with a concentration in poultry physiology, animal welfare and behavior. I also completed my Master of Science in animal sciences at Purdue University. This continuity has allowed me to immerse myself in an environment that fosters growth, knowledge, and hands-on experience. What truly distinguishes me is my unwavering tenacity and passion. These qualities have been the bedrock of my accomplishments, driving me forward even in the face of challenges. I am proud of my accomplishments in my career, I give myself a pat on the back. My contributions to scientific knowledge have been both fulfilling and humbling, reinforcing my commitment to pushing the boundaries of understanding in my field. The path I have traveled to reach this point has been marked by determination. This journey, with its inevitable trials, stands as a testament to my willingness to go beyond the ordinary. Every hurdle I have overcome has only reinforced my resolve and determination to excel. Belief in oneself is an incredible driving force. It’s crucial to acknowledge that success isn’t a solitary endeavor. I’ve drawn strength from the support of mentors, peers, and communities of like-minded individuals. Asking for help and embracing the collective wisdom around me have been instrumental in my growth. My research focuses on a critical issue—heat stress in poultry and its far-reaching implications. In the context of climate change, heat stress has emerged as a significant threat to poultry production. My research delves into understanding how heat stress affects production performance and welfare and also how these effects can be transmitted across subsequent generations through epigenetic modifications. By unraveling the intricate connections between environmental stressors, epigenetics, and animal welfare, I am dedicated to contributing to a more sustainable future for the poultry industry.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have always valued community and collaboration. I understood that my growth wasn’t just an individual achievement but a testament to the collective efforts of my mentors, peers, and the communities I engaged with. So, I want to give a special shoutout to my advisor Dr. Greg Fraley for his support and mentorship. I would also like to shout out to my husband Mr. Oluwatimilehin Doyeni for his unwavering support.

Instagram: https://instagram.com/aya.oba.1?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esther-oluwagbenga-9071991a7