Dr. OLADAYO Afolabi , Space Weather , Research Fellow at National Institute for Space Research, Brazil (INPE), Brazil
Oladayo Olayiwola Afolabi is a space physicist and scientific officer specializing in ionospheric research, space weather, and signal processing. He is currently based in São José dos Campos, Brazil, where he recently completed his Ph.D. in Space Geophysics at the Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais (INPE). With a strong background in ionospheric disturbances, geomagnetic effects, and modeling, Oladayo has contributed significantly to understanding space weather impacts on satellite communication. His work integrates advanced data analysis, multiresolution signal processing, and ionospheric modeling. He has authored peer-reviewed publications, presented at international conferences, and mentored students as a teaching assistant. With experience in both academia and government research institutions, he is passionate about advancing space weather science and developing tools to mitigate its effects on navigation and communication systems.
Professional Profile
Orcid
🎓 Education
Oladayo earned his Ph.D. in Space Geophysics from INPE, Brazil (2019–2024), focusing on geomagnetic disturbances and their effect on the Brazilian equatorial ionosphere. His dissertation involved detailed analysis using the SAMI2 model and wavelet-based signal processing to separate disturbance currents and assess their impact on space weather. He holds a Master’s degree (M.TEC.) in Radio Propagation, Ionospheric and Space Physics from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Nigeria (2015–2017), and a Bachelor’s degree (B.TEC.) in Pure and Applied Physics from the same university (2005–2010). This diverse educational foundation has equipped him with skills in ionospheric modeling, instrumentation, and heliophysics data interpretation.
💼 Experience
Oladayo is a Scientific Officer at Nigeria’s National Space Research and Development Agency, analyzing ionospheric data such as TEC, magnetic fields, and ionograms. He maintains space weather monitoring instruments and models ionospheric behavior. At INPE, Brazil, he conducted Ph.D. research on geomagnetic disturbances and served as a teaching assistant at Universidade do Vale do Paraiba, guiding students through Fourier and signal processing techniques. Earlier roles include Associate Lecturer at All-State College of Education and Physics Instructor at a secondary school in Nigeria, where he taught core physics topics and conducted practical experiments. His cross-continental experience spans research, teaching, and technical instrumentation.
🔬 Research Interests
Oladayo’s research centers on space weather, with a focus on geomagnetic disturbances and their influence on the equatorial and low-latitude ionosphere, especially in Brazil. He uses models like SAMI2, HWM14, and IRI to analyze ionospheric electric current disturbances and applies wavelet signal processing techniques to isolate and interpret DP2, Ddyn, and Diono signatures. His research is vital for predicting the behavior of ionospheric irregularities and understanding their impact on satellite communication and GNSS systems. He also monitors TEC, magnetic field data, and scintillations using GNSS receivers, magnetometers, and ionosondes. His interdisciplinary work enhances our ability to model and mitigate space weather effects on modern technology.
🏅 Awards
While specific awards are not listed, Oladayo’s academic and professional journey reflects a consistent record of excellence. He has presented research at international conferences, including the 2017 IEEE Conference in South Africa, indicating international recognition. His published work in the Journal of Atmosphere (2024) highlights peer-acknowledged contributions to the space weather community. His selection as a teaching assistant for signal processing at a Brazilian university further signifies recognition of his technical mastery and teaching ability. His appointment as a Scientific Officer at the National Space Research Agency reflects a trusted leadership role in Nigeria’s space science landscape. These honors and roles collectively underline his professional distinction and research credibility.
📚Top Noted Publications
1. Atmosphere (Journal Article, May 2024)
Title: Study and Modelling of the Impact of June 2015 Geomagnetic Storms on the Brazilian Ionosphere
2. Preprint (October 2023 working paper)
Title: Study and Modeling the Impact of June 2015 Geomagnetic Storms on the Brazilian Ionosphere (working‑paper)
Conclusion
In conclusion, Oladayo Olayiwola Afolabi possesses all the hallmarks of a Best Researcher Award recipient—deep technical knowledge, published contributions, international research collaboration, and real-world impact in space weather science. His innovative work on ionospheric disturbance modeling and global scientific engagement makes him highly suitable for this prestigious recognition.