How does ground-breaking research get out into the world? Let's get to know the individuals involved, and their passions. This holiday period, University of Graz researchers share why their research matters, and what goes into making it.
Today: Michael Tope Agbadaola, a postdoctoral researcher in the Molecular Biophysics Lab, explains why embracing change is important.
What are you working on right now, and why does it matter?
My research focuses on understanding the logic of signaling in G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) using single-molecule techniques. This is highly important because GPCRs are involved in the onset and development of several diseases, and understanding how they communicate signals across the membrane will be invaluable in developing highly potent, specific, and selective drugs to target them.
What is one thing people might not realize about your research?
People often think of receptors as simple ON/OFF switches, but GPCRs are more dynamic than that. They continuously explore different conformational states, and single-molecule techniques allow us to observe this molecular-level dynamics in ways that conventional ensemble measurements cannot.
What was a significant challenge you had to overcome to progress to where you are now?
Transitioning from being a physical chemist to becoming a molecular biophysicist required that I step outside my area of expertise, learn new concepts, develop new technical skills, and adapt to a different way of approaching scientific questions. It was challenging to navigate such a steep learning curve, but it also taught me to embrace change, remain curious, and never be too shy or afraid to learn something new.
To maintain focus and creativity, we all need variety in our life. What activity that isn’t your paid work are you pursuing with a similar passion?
Outside research, I am deeply involved in humanitarian work, both in my home country, Nigeria, and here in Europe. For me, giving back to society, supporting people in need, and contributing, in whatever way I can, to improving lives, is more than an activity; it is a personal commitment that gives me a different sense of purpose beyond my scientific work.
Michael Tope Agbadaola works at the Institute of Molecular Biosciences (see more about the group). We appreciate his time for this interview!
Interview: Johanna Stadlbauer, 5.11.2026. Picture credit: Olaitan Michael-Agbadaola.
(All the interviews in the series are here.)
