Nigerian Scholar’s Quantum Physics Research Offers Breakthroughs in Scattering Simulations

By Tosin Clegg

A journal by Nigerian physicist Kehinde Ogundipe has drawn attention in the academic community for its innovative approach to quantum scattering phenomena — a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics with far-reaching implications in physics and technology.

Kehinde’s paper, rooted in his undergraduate research at the University of Ibadan, explores the quantum mechanical behaviour of particles during scattering events. His work integrates advanced computational simulations with rigorous mathematical frameworks, shedding light on interactions that were previously difficult to visualise or quantify.

In a conversation with our correspondent, Kehinde explained, “Quantum scattering is not just a theoretical exercise — it forms the basis of numerous practical applications, from developing quantum algorithms to enhancing error correction protocols in quantum computing. My research aims to bridge that gap between abstract mathematics and real-world technology.”

The research applies a combination of MATLAB and FORTRAN to simulate particle dynamics, while MAPLE software was used to evaluate mathematical models that govern the behaviour of quantum particles and potential fields. This method enabled deeper insight into how particles behave at subatomic levels.

“My simulations focused on how wave functions evolve when particles collide with different potential barriers,” Kehinde said. “This is key to understanding quantum information systems, because these interactions form the building blocks of quantum logic gates and computational pathways.”

Quantum scattering simulations has valuable industry applications in the rapidly growing fields of quantum computing and quantum communication. His work supports the development of quantum logic gates, error correction protocols, and quantum algorithms -core components of next-generation quantum processors and networks.

What makes Kehinde’s work particularly relevant is its emphasis on Hilbert space dynamics — a mathematical concept often considered abstract but essential for quantum algorithm development. He describes this as “an exponential space where the future of quantum simulation resides.”

Currently a Research Assistant at the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Modern Physics, Kehinde continues to expand on his early work. He now collaborates with international teams on quantum computation models, integrating Python programming into his simulations to boost precision and speed.

His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Physics from the University of Ibadan. He later earned a software engineering diploma from AltSchool Africa and has gained industry experience as a Software Quality Assurance Engineer in both Nigeria and China.

“Software development and quantum physics might seem worlds apart,” Kehinde remarked, “but both demand the same core strengths — analytical thinking, precision, and a deep understanding of systems. Combining both has allowed me to approach physics problems from a modern engineering mindset.”

This interdisciplinary background also shows in his certification portfolio, including Python programming, software testing, and cybersecurity, which he believes equips him for solving complex, multi-layered problems in physics and computing.

Kehinde’s journal not only contributes to quantum mechanics but also serves as a template for undergraduate researchers seeking to make a mark in competitive academic fields. His meticulous attention to mathematical detail and practical implementation stands out in an era where research often favours theoretical abstraction over application.

He was previously awarded the ANSO Scholarship for Young Talents and is a member of the IEEE and the Association for Software Testing, among others. These affiliations, he said, have “kept me grounded in both research and global innovation conversations.”

With ambitions to further explore quantum control mechanisms and quantum error correction, Kehinde envisions a future where his work directly contributes to building robust and secure quantum computers. “Quantum scattering models are essential tools for tomorrow’s breakthroughs,” he stated.

As the global race toward quantum supremacy intensifies, young minds like Kehinde Oladipo Ogundipe are positioning Africa as a contender in high-level scientific discourse, proving that with the right tools and mentorship, innovation truly knows no borders.