National scholarship awarded for sustainable pavement research

As a Ph.D. student at the University of Utah, Jeremiah Adejube’s hard work and dedication as both a researcher and a teaching assistant isn’t just a path toward a terminal degree—it’s a reflection of a deeply personal and purposeful journey.

Originally from Nigeria, Jeremiah brings a global perspective to his research in sustainable infrastructure and materials engineering.

“Growing up in a developing country exposed me to the urgent need for improved civil infrastructure,” he said. “That experience, combined with my professional background in road construction and my passion for sustainability, is what inspired me to pursue a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering.”

Jeremiah’s work centers on sustainable pavement and materials engineering, with a focus on reducing the environmental impact of roadways. He studies how to improve the performance of pavements—especially in cold regions—by integrating eco-friendly materials and better prediction models.

“My research focuses on minimizing the carbon footprint of construction materials,” Jeremiah explained. “I aim to influence policy, reduce maintenance costs, and create sustainable solutions that work for both developed and developing regions.”

Currently, Jeremiah is contributing to a UDOT-sponsored project that evaluates polymer-modified Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA). He is also working to refine the Cracking Tolerance Index (CT-index) of asphalt pavements using nonlinear finite element modeling. His advisor, Dr. Pedro Romero, has played a key role in guiding Jeremiah’s research and connecting him with industry partners such as the Utah Asphalt Pavement Association.

His research is garnering national recognition: Jeremiah was recently named a recipient of a prestigious scholarship awarded by the Asphalt Institute Foundation. He is one of only seven students selected nationwide for this honor, which recognizes promising scholars focused on asphalt materials and pavement infrastructure. The scholarship, now in its fifth year, awarded a total of $28,000 for the 2025–26 academic year and was featured in Asphalt Magazine.

Jeremiah Adejube teaches high school students about concrete.

Beyond the lab, Jeremiah is deeply committed to mentorship, community engagement, and leadership. He has taught undergraduate courses, helped run a Transportation Summer Camp for high school students, and serves in multiple outreach and service roles in his church and local community.

“I draw strength and inspiration from the memory of my late father, the sacrifices of my mother, and a deep desire to give back,” he said. “By mentoring students and staying engaged in academic and spiritual communities, I want to help shape a future where infrastructure is both sustainable and accessible.”

After completing his Ph.D., Jeremiah hopes to work in asphalt production or pavement construction, eventually transitioning into a teaching role to support and inspire future engineers—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. His long-term vision is to start a civil engineering consultancy focused on low-carbon and climate-resilient materials.

With his scholarship award and continued research, Jeremiah is well on his way to doing just that.