Dr Oluwasegun Afolaranmi is bringing his medical background from Nigeria to the UK’s forefront of cancer research.
Afolaranmi pursued his education at the University of Oxford following his 2019 graduation as the top student from the University of Ibadan College of Medicine.
At the Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, he pursued an MSc in Integrated Immunology he was awarded the Oxford Clarendon Scholarship. 
From University of Ibadan to Oxford and Cancer Research UK
During his MSc research at the Oxford Department of Oncology, he worked with Dr Eileen Parkes’ group. His research explored cGAS-STING immune signalling in cancers with ineffective DNA repair machinery and looked at how researchers could modify the pathway for better cancer treatments.
Afolaranmi later joined the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, where he now researches the Hedgehog pathway and its influence on natural killer cells.
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Afolaranmi Researching How Natural Killer Cells Fight Cancer
Natural killer cells can identify and destroy tumour cells. Afolaranmi’s research looks at how scientists can make these immune cells more effective at fighting cancer and how they could use them to develop better cancer treatments.
His work also reflects his interest in Africa. Afolaranmi hopes future cancer treatment breakthroughs will reach patients in Africa, while also helping to develop the next generation of young African scientists.
He co-founded The Ganglion Initiative, which offers career assistance, mentorship, and scholarship possibilities to students in Nigeria. The effort has helped over 8,000 pupils.
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Afolaranmi stated that Green Templeton College became a significant element of his Oxford experience, particularly as an overseas student studying during the pandemic. He appreciated the kind and welcoming environment, as well as the resources provided for studying and socialising.
Away from medicine and research, Afolaranmi enjoys music, travelling and climbing. He also enjoys exploring the historic city of Oxford.
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