A 400 level Biotechnology student at Osun State University has secured a $950 international research grant to develop a wearable biosensor for detecting and monitoring Lassa fever in low resource settings, the university has announced.

Philip Ogundele won the award from Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society, for his proposal titled "Wearable Biosensor Prototype for the Detection and Surveillance of Lassa Fever Infection in Low Resource Settings." The project targets disease monitoring and early detection in environments where access to healthcare facilities and diagnostic tools remains limited.

The grant was awarded under the Sigma Xi Grants in Aid of Research programme, established in 1922, which supports undergraduate and postgraduate students conducting scientific research with societal relevance.

The Vice Chancellor of Osun State University, Professor Odunayo Clement Adebooye, described the award as a reflection of the institution's commitment to quality education and research excellence. "This international recognition further reflects our commitment to producing graduates and scholars equipped with the capacity to address real life challenges through research, innovation, and knowledged riven solutions," Adebooye stated.

The Vice Chancellor expressed pride in Ogundele's achievement. "We are proud of Philip Ayomide Ogundele for this remarkable feat, which demonstrates the immense potential of our students when provided with the right academic environment and support," he added.

The University noted that the award adds to a growing record of research accomplishments within the Institution and underscores UNIOSUN's presence in global academic and research circles. Officials confirmed the university would continue to strengthen initiatives that encourage innovation and academic excellence among students and staff.

The University's Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, disclosed the development in an official statement.