Prof Dr Adebayo Shittu from Nigeria
I prefer small and compact cities and Münster perfectly suits me! It is easy to commute, and I love the transportation system. [...] I value relationships, and we (my family and I) have met people who are great friends and colleagues.
Why did you decide to come to Muenster for your research?
I have had a longstanding relationship with Münster since the time of the late Professor Georg Peters, the former Director of the Institute of Medical Microbiology at the Universitätsklinikum Münster (UKM). My first visit was in 2011 through a research programme funded by the Third World Academy of Science (TWAS)/Deutsche Forschunsgemeinschaft (DFG). I was on a three-month research stay (in 2018) through the Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD) award. Then, I received an Alexander von Humboldt (AvH) fellowship in 2019, and now, in 2023, I am back again (through the support of AvH) in Münster.
How would you explain your research to a friend?
Up to 30 per cent of the human population carry the microbe Staphylococcus aureus without causing an infection. However, under certain conditions, infections can occur with dire consequences. My research investigates a superbug called Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). This pathogen is resistant to many antibiotics, leading to treatment failure, prolonged hospital stays, and increased medical costs. I am somewhat of a ‘FBI’ agent for pathogens. I am interested in MRSA surveillance and understanding the nature and trends in Africa. Active surveillance is essential for adequate infection prevention and control measures.
How has the research environment in Muenster affected your work? Would you recommend visiting Muenster to a colleague?
I have enjoyed my research in Münster. The Institute of Medical Microbiology (UKM) has supported my research aspirations, and the environment has been cordial and welcoming. During my research stay (funded by the AvH), the Welcome Centre in the International Office provided immense support, especially with school placement for my children. Besides, the Welcome Centre and the guesthouse team at the Alexander-von-Humboldt-house have been instrumental to my research success. I have received great encouragement and support from Professor Frieder Schaumburg (Director of the Institute of Medical Microbiology). That is the reason I keep coming back! Yes, I would recommend Münster to colleagues. My current two PhD students from Nigeria have visited Münster on three-month research stays.
What makes Muenster a great place to stay during research? Which aspects of the city do you like the most?
I prefer small and compact cities and Münster perfectly suits me! It is easy to commute, and I love the transportation system. In Nigeria, I am a member of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), and a branch of the Church is in Münster, which makes me happy. I value relationships, and we (my family and I) have met people who are great friends and colleagues.
Further information
Programmseite ReAl - Research Alumni Strategie