From Akure to Uppsala: Moyosore Fakoya’s Journey Toward Biomedical Innovation Through Additive Manufacturing

 
As the world moves toward precision medicine and personalised healthcare, a quiet revolution is underway – powered by Additive Manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing. At the forefront of this revolution is Moyosore Fakoya, a Nigerian materials engineer and researcher whose academic and professional journey has taken him from the lecture halls of Akure to global labs in Sweden.  Fakoya’s journey is a compelling example of how Nigerian talent, when nurtured and exposed to the right tools and environments, can offer real-world solutions to global problems. As he sets his sights on reshaping the future of biomedical manufacturing, his story continues to inspire a new wave of innovation and purpose-driven engineering.
Fakoya sheds light on his remarkable career journey, notable research milestones, and how his innovative work is revolutionising the medical technology landscape in this interview with MARY NNAH.
 
Could you tell us a bit about your background and what inspired your journey into engineering?
 
I was born and raised in Nigeria, and I earned my Bachelor of Engineering degree in Metallurgical and Materials Engineering from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) in 2016. From an early age, I was fascinated by how materials shape the world around us—from infrastructure to electronics and healthcare. That curiosity eventually led me into materials science, where I discovered the immense potential of Additive Manufacturing (AM) to revolutionise multiple sectors, especially medicine.
 
How did your academic journey lead you to Sweden?
 
After my undergraduate studies, I knew I wanted to pursue deeper research. In 2021, I was awarded the prestigious Uppsala University Global Scholarship to pursue a Master of Science in Materials Engineering with a specialisation in Additive Manufacturing. Uppsala University in Sweden is globally recognised for its excellence in science and technology, and my experience there exposed me to world-class research in medical device innovation, laser powder bed fusion techniques, and novel biomaterials.
 
Let’s talk about Additive Manufacturing. What makes it so powerful in today’s world?
 
AM is transformative because it allows engineers to create highly complex, customised parts directly from digital models, layer by layer. Unlike traditional manufacturing, which often wastes materials and is limited in design scope, AM is efficient, sustainable, and versatile. In the medical field, this means we can now produce patient-specific implants, prosthetics, surgical guides, and even drug delivery devices. It’s revolutionising orthopaedics, dentistry, and personalised medicine.
 
You’ve conducted notable research in biomedical AM. Could you share some of your findings?
 
Certainly. My master’s thesis at Uppsala focused on the Effect of Heat Treatment on the Microstructure and Hardness of Additively Manufactured Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-6Al-4V-4.5%316L Alloys. These alloys are commonly used in biomedical implants. We found that post-processing through controlled heat treatment significantly improved the hardness and structural integrity of the printed parts, making them safer and more durable for medical applications. The research has been published in Uppsala University’s online archive and is already being cited in further studies.
 
How would you describe the global impact of your work?
 
My research on advancing Additive Manufacturing for biomedical implants and medical devices has global implications. It supports not only U.S. government initiatives like America Makes and AM Forward but also contributes to solving healthcare challenges in developing countries. Imagine being able to print custom bone implants in remote hospitals in Africa using biodegradable materials. The combination of innovation, sustainability, and accessibility is at the heart of my work.
 
What are some recognitions you’ve received?
 
In addition to the King Carl Gustaf Scholarship, I am a Certified Additive Manufacturing Technician (CAMT) through the Society of Manufacturing Engineers. I am also an active member of several professional bodies including the European Powder Metallurgy Association (EPMA) and Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET). These affiliations keep me connected to cutting-edge research and collaborations.
 
What does the future look like for you and for AM in healthcare?
 
I envision leading a multidisciplinary research lab that focuses on smart biomaterials, multi-material 3D printing, and regulatory-compliant medical devices. I plan to collaborate with both U.S. and Nigerian institutions to drive inclusive healthcare innovation. AM can help bridge the healthcare inequality gap by offering cost-effective, customised medical solutions that cater to local needs while maintaining global standards.
 
Any advice to young Nigerian engineers or scientists?
 
Stay curious. The world is changing rapidly, and emerging technologies like Additive Manufacturing, AI, and renewable energy will define the next generation of global leaders. Don’t be afraid to start small—every prototype, every paper, every problem you solve matters. Also, seek out international exposure when you can -it broadens your perspective and prepares you for global impact.
 
You’ve had a diverse professional journey. Could you walk us through your career path so far?
 
My professional journey began as a Graduate Integrity Engineer at Cinergy Engineering Services and Asset Integrity in Lagos, Nigeria, where I contributed to writing integrity management documents and performed assessments for subsea and pressure-containing equipment. After that, I worked at the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited in Abuja as a Materials Engineer, supporting broadband infrastructure projects at high-profile institutions like the Army Headquarters and the Office of the Vice President. I was also responsible for cost-saving quality control initiatives.

Later, I served as a Materials Engineer Intern at EBM Systems Limited, also in Abuja, where I supervised maintenance of extrusion machinery and monitored key production parameters. Currently, I work with Svensk Hemleverans Handelsbolag in Uppsala, Sweden, where I’ve taken on the responsibility of reliable deliveries that support communication and democracy.
Across all these roles, I’ve built a strong foundation in technical operations, team collaboration, and precision engineering skills that complement my academic background and research goals in Additive Manufacturing.