Olufemi Adenitan

My work sits at the intersection of Responsible Innovation, innovation governance and sustainable development, with a particular interest in how emerging technologies can be developed and governed to address complex societal challenges, particularly in conflict settings. I am interested in how evidence, knowledge and stakeholder perspectives shape governance decisions, and how more inclusive approaches can strengthen community resilience and support responsible decision-making.

This interest is grounded in over a decade of professional experience across charity, community development and humanitarian practice. I have led a civil society organisation delivering humanitarian and development programmes, worked with communities, government and institutional partners, and managed humanitarian service operations with the British Red Cross. These experiences have given me a practical understanding of how complex challenges are experienced on the ground and how policy, strategy and resources can be translated into effective and accountable action.

In my PhD, I explored the potential of genetically modified (GM) grass to contribute to easing farmer–herder conflict in Nigeria, particularly amid pressures on land, pasture and water. My research, titled “Genetically Modified Organisms for Conflict Prevention: Exploring Responsible Innovation Practice to Ease Farmer–Herder Violence in Nigeria,” examined not only the potential of the technology but also the governance conditions surrounding its possible development and use.

The research examined questions of risk, uncertainty, trust, power and knowledge, with particular attention to how those who may be affected can meaningfully participate in decisions about emerging technologies. It reflects my broader interest in how technology governance shapes innovation trajectories, whose knowledge and interests are represented in decision-making, and how diverse perspectives can contribute to more legitimate and socially responsive innovation.

Through interdisciplinary research and professional practice, I seek to connect evidence, innovation and governance with real-world challenges, contributing to policy and practice that are inclusive, ethically grounded and capable of supporting resilient and sustainable outcomes for communities.