My first introduction to research was in my 3rd year at the university while leading a team of students designing an electronic attendance system using fingerprints.
Our supervisor was Dr. K.P Ayodele - an excellent researcher keen on our development who revamped our mindset as we worked on the project. It all paid dividends as I scored an 87 A in the course as our team aced the defense.
His research was focused on bio-instrumentation and neuro-engineering using EEG and ECG signals. I just had a lot of questions for him every time I barged into his office. Eventually, I joined his research team.
Looking back, I knew nothing about research aside from my passionate curiosity, love for work, and interest in innovation. That is the typical me 🤗
After some time, I served as the vertical integrator for research. I coordinated information about the states of projects and equipment in the lab. Sometimes supervise installations and store management. I was privileged to the relevant tech news and research materials in machine learning and robotics. With these, I set myself up for self-learning.
I also led a team of colleagues in developing a brain-controlled wheelchair project. I worked on the hardware design and speed control of the wheelchair at that time. A video of a late-night demo in the corridor of our department is attached below.
In all, I worked as research assistance for 3years and executed my final year projects in that position with the same supervisor. Special thanks to his wisdom and team management. I gained an opportunity that metamorphosed into my exemplary tech career. He is forever going to be my mentor as my love for research continues to grow.