Oseeyi Dauda is a Ph.D. student in biochemistry who is advancing critical research on proline metabolism. Her study focuses on how pathogenic bacteria utilize proline to promote pathogenesis. It holds significant promise for uncovering potential therapeutic drug targets. Pursuing graduate studies at UNL was a natural progression for Oseeyi, who discovered her passion for biochemistry research as an undergraduate here.
She credits the collaborative and supportive environment during her undergraduate years for fostering her growth, allowing her to discover her interests in proline and its essential role in nearly every living organism. This versatility has allowed her to study proline across multiple systems and explore its implications in diseases, including cancer.
Her decision to remain at UNL for graduate school reflects her deep appreciation for the environment that initially nurtured her love for research. She describes UNL as the perfect learning ground and credits her mentor, Dr. Donald Becker, for creating an environment where she could thrive. Oseeyi believes that Dr. Becker’s lab provided a great mentor, an engaging research focus, and a positive lab culture. She compared other graduate programs to her experiences in Dr. Becker’s lab when she considered them. Ultimately, she chose to stay because, as she says, “Why try to find something similar elsewhere when I could have the original?” This decision has allowed her to develop her skills further and fully enjoy her work in a space that feels both comfortable and enabling.
Oseeyi’s commitment to making a difference extends beyond her research. As a member of the Biochemistry Graduate Students Association (BCGSA), she serves as the association’s representative to the Biochemistry Faculty. She is currently leading efforts to introduce a peer mentorship initiative. This initiative aims to build a stronger community among graduate students while fostering connections with postdoctoral researchers. She sees this project to ensure that all students have a safe and welcoming space to grow and feel supported.
Balancing her individual workload with her commitment to helping others has been a defining part of her journey. She attributes her ability to find balance to the support she has received over the years. She fondly recalls her undergraduate mentor, Dr. Lu Julia Zhang, whose guidance was instrumental in her decision to pursue research. For Oseeyi, every moment counts—finding time during an experiment to lend a listening ear or share advice with a fellow student.
She credits her family, friends, and coworkers as her most incredible support system. Her parents in Nigeria are always available for Facetime calls, while her friends have become her chosen family, cheering her on every step of the way. She also highlights her coworkers' patient guidance and encouragement, without whom she believes her journey would not have been possible. Inspired by her support, she hopes to one day be the kind of mentor her mentors were to her.
When asked what she hopes to be remembered for, Oseeyi reflects, “I want to look back on every chapter of my life and be proud that I gave my all, no matter the season or outcome. I hope to be remembered as someone who pulled others along and helped them achieve their goals.” Her faith has also been a cornerstone of her journey, helping her stay grounded and giving her the strength to overcome challenges.
A fun fact about Seyi is that she has 12 names—a detail she loves to share but admits she would need a card to remember them all. Her humility, dedication, and passion for science and community make her a standout member of the UNL graduate community. She inspires those around her as she strides in her field.