International Roots, Academic Heights: A Path to a PhD

Posted May 27, 2024January 24, 2025 in Alumni, Computational & Integrative Biology, Graduate Student Organization (GSO), International Students, Stories

Reading Time: 4 minutes

The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped global perspectives, and for Temitope Akinode, it also defined a critical chapter in her academic journey. As a founding member of the Graduate Student Organization and a recent graduate of the Computational and Integrative Biology program, she collaborated with Dr. Benedetto Piccoli to investigate the economic and societal impacts of lockdown strategies during the pandemic. Originally from Nigeria, Temitope values the strong sense of community, research opportunities, and professional growth she experienced at Rutgers–Camden. These foundational experiences have prepared her to begin her PhD in Chemistry at Syracuse University, where she will continue her impactful work. Dive into her full profile to discover how she has combined her passion for science with meaningful research that addresses global challenges.

Tracing the Journey: Chemistry, Biology, and Beyond

I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry with a focus on Organic Synthesis at Covenant University, Nigeria. I decided to learn more about epidemiology during my Master’s degree in Computational Biology by working in Dr. Piccoli’s lab at Rutgers–Camden. I used mathematical modeling to study the dynamics of diseases and their economic costs. I graduated in May and will be moving on to Syracuse University for my PhD in Chemistry.

My undergraduate studies in chemistry provided a strong foundation for understanding how organic synthesis can combat diseases. Later in my academic journey, I found myself drawn to the intersection of chemistry and biology—exploring how diseases are transmitted and using mathematical modeling to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.

Being a student at Rutgers–Camden made me understand the meaning of being a well-rounded individual.
Temitope Akinode

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The Science Behind Lockdown Strategies

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a global shift, necessitating rapid development of effective policies to protect the public. Before vaccines were widely available in 2021, researchers focused on non-pharmaceutical strategies to manage the spread of the virus. These included social distancing, contact tracing, hygiene habits, and isolation strategies such as lockdowns and quarantines.

In my research, we developed epidemiological models using the SEIR compartments: S – Susceptible, E – Exposed, I – Infected, and R – Removed, based on a system of differential equations. We analyzed the economic and societal impacts of the pandemic with and without lockdown strategies. By testing three different scenarios, we suggested a more effective lockdown approach. Our models provided insights into how sociodemographic variables were affected by the virus, both socially and economically.

Lessons and Memories That Last

My time at Rutgers–Camden has been invaluable for anyone who values community engagement, research exposure, and career growth. Being a student here helped me understand the meaning of being a well-rounded individual. As the saying goes, “You are what you surround yourself with.” Rutgers–Camden allowed me to engage with a diverse student body and work closely with professors dedicated to my success.

The resources available were critical to my growth—library staff who guided me in finding materials for my thesis, professors who patiently explained concepts during office hours, and tutoring services available whenever I needed them. What I appreciate most about Rutgers–Camden is the sense of community—it truly takes a village, and I never felt alone here.