Omozojie Paul Aigbogun: Black History Month Spotlight

Black People are Contributing to Science: Inspiring Youth to Create Their Story

Role in College

Omozojie Paul Aigbogun, commonly known as "Omo" or "Paul," completed his PhD in Chemistry at the University of Saskatchewan in 2023, under the co-supervision of Dr. Krol and Dr. Phenix. During his time at the university, he worked as a research assistant and teaching assistant, and served as the Design and Media Officer for the Usask American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) chapter. He is now a Senior Principal Scientist in Discovery Radiochemistry at Eli Lilly and Company. Omozojie aims to inspire young Black students by demonstrating that they belong in the sciences, that Black people are making significant contributions, and that they have the capability to succeed.

Cultural Background

Omozojie is a Nigerian-Canadian, born in Lagos, a vibrant and multicultural city known as the African city that never sleeps. He was raised by his parents, Eromonsele and Cordelia Aigbogun, in Lagos, and his grandparents, the late Christopher and Elizabeth Aigbogun, in Edo State. Omozojie has a supportive and beautiful wife, Peace Aigbogun, and a wonderful 2-year-old son. Besides English, Omozojie speaks his native Esan language fluently. He is a basketball fan who supports the Toronto Raptors and Golden State Warriors, and loves to listen and dance to Afrobeats, a unique music genre from Africa.

Inspiration

Early in life, Omozojie was inspired by Black excellence movements and was empowered by the “Jet Club,” a student-led organization that supports aspiring future doctors, engineers, and scientists in Nigeria. He was also heavily influenced by the contributions of:

• Benjamin Carson, the African American neurosurgeon who was the first to separate conjoined twins;
• Samuel Achilefu, the Nigerian-American Scientist who made significant impacts in Cancer imaging and surgery; and
• Bennet Omalu, the Nigerian-American scientist who discovered chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

These Black scientists, among many others, have made tremendous contributions to global health and scientific achievements, embodying Black excellence.

Challenges and Overcoming Them

As a Black student and scientist, Omozojie faced the challenge of underrepresentation. The lack of Black scientists in senior positions and leadership roles made it difficult to find one-on-one mentors who understood his unique journey and experiences. However, Omozojie was motivated by figures like Dr. Benjamin Carson, who showed him he did have a place in the global scientific community. This inspired him to work hard and pursue his dreams. He is now committed to mentoring younger Black students and scientists to help them navigate their careers in science.

Future Aspirations

Omozojie is proud to be a Black Nigerian-Canadian scientist. He hopes to contribute to the ongoing narrative of Black excellence through partnerships and collaborations with other Black leaders and those interested in radiochemistry and nuclear medicine. He aspires to inspire youth and build a team that can mentor Black students from high school onwards to pursue careers in science.

MORE: https://spotlight.usask.ca/black-history-month/black-history-month.php