Graduating Student Spotlight: Bolade Olateju

Bolade Olateju is from Lagos, Nigeria, and is earning his Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology within the Department of Health, Nutrition, and Food Science.

Why did you choose your program?

I chose the Exercise Physiology Ph.D. program at Florida State University because of its strong reputation in integrative human physiology and translational research. I was particularly drawn to the opportunity to investigate mechanisms of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, work closely with exceptional faculty, and contribute to research that has real clinical impact. I wanted a program that would challenge me, support my growth as a scientist, and allow me to conduct meaningful research, and FSU provided exactly that.

What has been your favorite part of the program?

My favorite part of the program has been the hands-on research experience and the collaborative environment within my lab. I truly enjoyed mentoring students, working with cutting-edge techniques, and contributing to research exploring cardiac injury, immune responses, and genetic risk factors. The opportunity to present my work at national conferences and engage with other scientists has also been incredibly rewarding and inspiring.

What do you want to do after you graduate?

After graduation, I plan to continue my work in biomedical research, particularly in preclinical and translational studies focused on cardiovascular and metabolic health. I am interested in contributing to research programs within academic, clinical, or industry settings where I can apply my expertise in physiology, molecular biology, and laboratory operations. Ultimately, my goal is to advance scientific understanding that can help improve health outcomes and guide therapeutic innovations.

What are some professional, academic, or personal highlights from your time at FSU that you would like to share?

During my time at FSU, I have been fortunate to build a diverse and impactful record of academic research and leadership accomplishments. I have trained and mentored numerous students, supported multiple federally funded research projects, and contributed to several publications focused on sarcospan, cardiac remodeling, and cardiometabolic disease. I also had the privilege of working on two major funded grants: the Florida Department of Health Research Grant, investigating how environmental factors exacerbate a novel cardiovascular risk factor, and a project supported by the Institute for Pediatric Rare Diseases, examining inflammatory genes linked to Duchenne muscular dystrophy to help advance therapeutic strategies.

I have received numerous prestigious travel and research awards, including the FSU Graduate Student Resource Travel Grant, multiple HNFS awards, Anne's College Research Showcase Travel Awards (twice), and five Congress of Graduate Students (COGS) Presentation Grants. I have presented my research at major national and international conferences, including the American Physiology Summit (three times), the Myology Conference (twice), and multiple FSU research showcases.

In addition to my research accomplishments, I have been honored to earn recognition as a Full Member of Sigma Xi and to hold active memberships in leading professional organizations, including the American Heart Association (AHA), the Biophysical Society (BPS), the American Physiology Society (APS), and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).

I also played a key role in improving laboratory workflows, optimizing experimental procedures, and enhancing overall research productivity within my group. These experiences have shaped me both professionally and personally, and I am extremely proud of the meaningful contributions I have made during my graduate journey at FSU.