My Journey

I’m Olaitan Adeleke, a researcher, designer, and technologist passionate about wearable technology, e-textiles, and creating solutions that make a difference. My work blends creativity, technology, and practicality to tackle real-world challenges, particularly within the context of developing regions.

Education Overview

University of Minnesota, ABD (Anticipated Spring 2025)

Doctoral Dissertation: Development and Application of an Electronic Design

PhD in Design Innovation (Wearable Technology and Apparel Studies)
Master of Science in Information Technology (Data Science & IT Entrepreneurship)

Carnegie Mellon University, 2020

Advisor: Dr. Lucy Dunne

Automation Framework for Electronic Textiles

Masters Practicum: Low Cost, High Yields: Artificial Intelligence Helps Poor Smallholder Farmers Access Expert Advice

Practicum Partner: Microsoft Research

Collaborated with: Clasence Neba Shu and Andrew A Musoke

Advisor: Dr. David Vernon

Master’s Thesis: Female Enrollment, Child Mortality, And Corruption Are Good Predictors of a Country’s UN Education Index

Advisor: Dr. Patrick McSharry

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, 2014

Honors Thesis: A Rabin Karp Algorithm in a Knowledge-Based Environment

Advisor: Dr. Olusegun Folorunso

white microscope on top of black table

Research Experience

Research Student Assistant

Carnegie Mellon University, Morphing Matter Lab

January 2020 – July 2020

  • Developed innovative fabric prosthetics for breast cancer survivors by combining hand weaving and digital fabrication techniques. Led user studies in the U.S. and Rwanda, analyzing data to inform design.

  • Designed and fabricated soft robotics using pneumatic artificial McKibben muscles and conducted comprehensive lab experiments to support both projects.

Graduate Research Assistant

University of Minnesota, Wearable Technology Lab

January 2021 - Present

  • Engaged in interdisciplinary wearable technology and e-textile research, including rehabilitation garments, strain analysis, digital patternmaking interfaces, and design intelligence for waste reduction.

  • Collaborated with sponsors like NSF, Cisco, and Meta, while conducting literature reviews, lab experiments, and presenting findings.

  • Actively contributed to peer-reviewed publications and research teams comprising designers, engineers, and computer scientists.

Teaching Experience

Lead Instructor

Diverse Voices of Africa (OLLI 30919, OLLI 30881)

University of Minnesota, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

Fall, September 2022-Spring, May 2024

Graduate Teaching Assistant

Data Inference & Applied Machine Learning (ECE 18785), Data Analytics (ECE 18899)

Carnegie Mellon University

  • Developed and evaluated multiple homework assignments and assigned grades to over 80 students in both the US and Rwanda.

  • Facilitated students' comprehension through dedicated office hours, addressing questions and providing assistance with exercises.

  • Organized numerous recitations and assignments, including comprehensive assignments solutions.

  • Designed and taught two courses for a group of more than 50 lifelong learners in an exploration of the African continent’s rich tapestry.

  • Enriching the learning experience by featuring invited guest speakers from various regions of Africa to offer a broader perspective of the course.

Graduate Teaching Assistant

Wearable Technology Laboratory Lab (DES 5902)

University of Minnesota

  • Co-teaching students in laboratory sessions to develop skills in building and testing wearable technology systems.

  • Guiding students in developing hands-on prototyping to gain a practical appreciation for the challenges related to wearable systems development.

Spring, January 2024-May 2024

Fall, August – December 2019, Spring, January-May 2020

Industry Experience

Data Science Intern

Rwanda Revenue Authority

May – August 2019

  • Applied data analytics and visualization techniques to identify trends and behavior of taxpayers' behaviors.

  • Implemented three (3) major risk rules to segment non-compliant taxpayers in the country.

Managing Director

Treasure Couture

January 2015 – July 2018

  • Designed and produced a diverse range of clothing and fashion accessories for individuals, corporate entities, and religious organizations, overseeing product strategy that generated consistent bi-monthly revenues exceeding $2,850.

  • Expanded the client base, building lasting relationships with 75 loyal customers within three years.

  • Provided leadership by mentoring four aspiring students in garment patternmaking and bag manufacturing.

Co-Founder & Managing Director

Treasure Care Foundation

January 2016 – July 2018

  • Sewn school uniforms and provided learning aids to over 30 students in the urban settlements through personal savings and solicited funds and a full scholarship to 5 students.

  • Managed relationships with five funders and secured over $1,750 as recurring revenue for the foundation.

I highly recommend Olaitan Adeleke for her exceptional work and dedication. As her supervisor, I have witnessed her consistently demonstrate strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and leadership in her role. Olaitan is a proactive and reliable professional, always eager to learn and improve. Her ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and maintain a positive attitude makes her an asset to any team. I am confident she will continue to excel in any endeavor she pursues.

Lucy E Dunne

★★★★★

Location Info

Discover where I operate and connect with my personal brand. Visit my website to explore my projects and insights.

Location

12 McNeal Hall
1985 Buford Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55108

Hours

9 AM - 5 PM (Monday-Friday)