The American Chemical Society member Oluwaseun Ajayi has been named the 2026 Woman of the Year by Women in Chemicals, a nonprofit whose mission is to create and identify opportunities to empower women in the chemical industry. Ajayi is one of the youngest finalists to receive the award. The award, ultimately chosen by a public vote, recognizes leaders in the chemical industry who are invested in and actively advocating for women’s advancement in industry. Ajayi is a chemistry PhD candidate at the University of Georgia, where her research focuses on an antibiotic (apramycin) relevant to the global effort to address antimicrobial resistance. In addition to her research in bioanalytical and materials chemistry, she has completed a co-op, a program that allows students to gain industry experience while working to complete their degree, with Johnson & Johnson’s Cell Engineering and Analytical Sciences group. In that program, she worked to improve throughput, data quality, and scalability through laboratory automation.
Ajayi has earned certificates in sustainability, as she views sustainability, coupled with innovation, as a driver for long-term impact. She has also served in leadership roles in various organizations and teams, including Women in Cleantech and Sustainability. Ajayi regularly mentors students and young professionals, helping them build confidence. With any free time, Ajayi continues giving back by volunteering for organizations that support youth development, raise awareness about sexual assault, and support women’s empowerment.
