Abdulrahman Olamilekan Raji Raji

Abdulrahman Olamilekan Raji is a Mastercard Foundation Scholar at the University of Oxford, currently pursuing an MSc in Pharmacology in the Department of Pharmacology. He is a member of Kellogg College.

His fascination with the molecular mechanisms that underpin human health and disease led him to study Biochemistry at Kwara State University, Nigeria, where he graduated with First-Class Honours and as the Best Male Student in his department. His academic journey was recognised through several competitive awards, including an undergraduate research grant that enabled him to investigate medicinal plants traditionally used in his community. The project identified bioactive constituents with promising therapeutic potential for managing diabetic nephropathy.

In his second year, alongside his studies, Abdulrahman founded ZenithPlus, a tutorial initiative through which he mentors peers and junior students and makes scientific knowledge more accessible with a team of volunteer tutors. Many participants recorded significant improvements in their academic results. The impact of the initiative led to his appointment as the Academic Director of his faculty in his final year. He also served as the Director of Studies for the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, Kwara State University Chapter, for two consecutive years and received invitations from other centres to serve as a tutor. Tutoring reinforced his belief that knowledge has its greatest impact when it is shared.

At Oxford, Abdulrahman looks forward to learning from world-class researchers, engaging with scholars from diverse backgrounds across Africa and beyond, exploring the Oxford environment, and contributing to research on drug discovery through the integration of molecular and pharmacological approaches. His long-term goal is to pursue a career in academia and drug discovery, with a particular focus on developing innovative and accessible therapies for dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases, strengthening research capacity across Africa, and mentoring upcoming African scientists to pursue research that improves lives.

Beyond academics, Abdulrahman enjoys volunteering, deepening his understanding of his religion, making selfless impacts, and watching football matches.