1. Tell us a little about yourself and your journey from KNUST to where you are today.
I am a Ghanaian biomedical engineer and researcher currently working at the intersection of engineering, health technology, and data-driven science. My academic journey began at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Materials Engineering. KNUST was where I developed my curiosity for how materials and engineering principles can be applied to solve real-world problems.
After graduating, I pursued further research and eventually moved to Yonsei University in South Korea, where I completed my PhD in Biomedical Engineering. Along the way, I worked on research spanning biomaterials, biomedical sensors, computational modeling, and data-driven health technologies. Looking back, the foundation built at KNUST played a critical role in shaping the discipline, curiosity, and resilience that carried me through the PhD journey.
2. At just about 26, you already hold a PhD. What inspired you to pursue engineering and push your studies to that level so early?
My motivation has always been rooted in curiosity and impact. Engineering appealed to me because it sits at the intersection of science and practical solutions. I was particularly drawn to how engineering can be used to develop technologies that directly improve human health and quality of life.
As I progressed academically, I realized that research allows you to explore deeper questions and create innovations that can influence entire systems. That realization naturally pushed me toward graduate studies. Pursuing a PhD early was less about age and more about momentum, continuing the path of learning and discovery while staying focused on contributing meaningfully through science and technology.
3. Looking back at your time at KNUST, what experiences or mentors had the biggest impact on your academic or professional journey?
KNUST provided a very strong academic environment that encouraged analytical thinking and problem-solving. The Materials Engineering program in particular exposed me to both theoretical and applied aspects of engineering, which broadened my perspective on how science translates into real-world applications.
Equally important were the lecturers in the Materials Engineering Department and mentors who emphasized rigor, discipline, and intellectual curiosity. Their guidance helped shape how I approach research today, asking deeper questions, thinking critically, and striving for excellence in whatever I pursue. I still maintain connections with several of them and continue to collaborate on research projects, which has been a meaningful way to stay engaged with the KNUST academic community.
4. Are there any specific lessons or values from KNUST that still guide the way you approach your work today?
One of the most important lessons I carried from KNUST is intellectual resilience, the ability to tackle complex problems patiently and systematically. Engineering education at KNUST trains you to approach challenges methodically, breaking down complicated systems into solvable components.
Another important value is collaboration. Engineering rarely happens in isolation, and my time at KNUST reinforced the importance of working across disciplines and learning from others.
5. You pursued your PhD in South Korea. What was that experience like, and what were some of the biggest cultural or academic adjustments you had to make?
Studying in South Korea was both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Academically, the environment is highly research-driven, with a strong emphasis on productivity, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Culturally, the adjustment involved adapting to a different language, communication style, and work culture. However, these differences also broadened my perspective and strengthened my ability to work in diverse international environments. The experience ultimately helped me grow not only as a researcher but also as a global professional.
6. What is one thing you learned from the Korean academic or innovation ecosystem that you think Ghana or African universities could benefit from?
One key takeaway is the strong integration between academia, industry, and innovation ecosystems. In Korea, universities are closely connected to industry and technology development, which accelerates the translation of research into practical applications.
Strengthening similar connections between universities, research institutions, and industry in Africa could significantly enhance the impact of scientific research and innovation.
7. What area of engineering or research are you currently focused on, and how do you hope your work will make an impact?
My work focuses broadly on biomedical engineering and data-driven technologies, particularly areas such as biomedical sensors, wearable devices, biomaterials, artificial intelligence and computational modeling. These technologies have the potential to transform healthcare by enabling earlier detection of diseases, better monitoring of health conditions, and more accessible diagnostic tools.
My long-term goal is to contribute to the development of health technologies and innovation pipelines that can benefit Ghana and Africa, while also strengthening research capacity and scientific collaboration.
8. Many KNUST students aspire to pursue international opportunities like yours. What advice would you give to students who want to follow a similar path?
First, focus on building a strong academic foundation and developing genuine curiosity in your field. Research opportunities often come to students who demonstrate initiative, discipline, and consistency.
Second, actively seek opportunities. Apply for scholarships, research programs, and international collaborations. Many students underestimate how many opportunities exist globally.
Finally, remain persistent. The path to international academic opportunities can involve many applications and rejections, but persistence and preparation eventually open doors.
9. If you had the opportunity to speak to your younger self when you were at KNUST, what would you tell him?
I would tell him to stay curious and trust the process. Sometimes the path forward is not always clear, but consistency and dedication eventually compound into meaningful progress.
I would also remind him that growth often happens outside your comfort zone, so embracing challenges and new environments can lead to opportunities you never initially imagined.
10. Finally, what does being part of the KNUST alumni community mean to you, and how do you hope to stay connected or give back in the future?
Being part of the KNUST alumni community is something I’m very proud of. The university played a fundamental role in shaping my academic and professional trajectory.
Looking ahead, I hope to stay connected through mentorship, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. Supporting younger students, contributing to research networks, and helping create pathways for international academic opportunities are some of the ways I hope to give back.
For a full overview of his research, publications, and professional accomplishments, visit Ezekiel’s e-portfolio (https://sites.google.com/view/ezekieledward/home) and scholar profile (https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=n4kRO2YAAAAJ&hl=en)