Dr. Thywill C. Dzogbewu, a passionate problem solver who looks beyond the lab bench to bring solutions that benefit communities, industries, and the environment.

At CUT, innovation in materials and manufacturing stands at the forefront of research that transforms industries and communities. Through advanced engineering, sustainable technologies, and creative problem-solving, researchers are developing smarter, stronger, and more sustainable solutions to address real-world challenges. This focus not only fuels industrial growth and competitiveness but also drives social and economic progress, turning knowledge into tangible impact for a better future.

Dr. Thywill C. Dzogbewu is more than a researcher and lecturer in Mechanical Engineering, he is a passionate problem-solver working at the intersection of materials science, sustainability, and advanced manufacturing. His research is dedicated to developing smarter, greener manufacturing solutions that enhance quality of life, from designing durable, infection-resistant medical implants to pioneering eco-friendly production processes that promote sustainability and innovation.

What sets him apart from his peers is his holistic approach to research. He looks beyond the lab bench to envision how ideas can evolve from experimental concepts into real-world applications, creating products that people can use and industries can adopt. He describes his philosophy as a “360-degree research strategy,” ensuring that every project has a clear pathway to market and make meaningful societal impact. For him, research does not end with discovery; it continues until innovation becomes a solution, one that benefits communities, industries, and the environment alike.

“My 360-degree research strategy ensures that every project has a business case enabling transition from laboratory to industry, facilitating practical implementation, reducing the time and resources typically lost in the ‘valley of death’ between research and commercial application.”

Dr. Dzogbewu’s impactful research has driven advances in adaptive shape memory alloys and 4D materials, fostering biomedical and engineering solutions that are responsive and durable. His work supports industry adoption of low-carbon manufacturing processes and demonstrates vital contributions to national decarbonisation policies, particularly through the use of platinum group metals. “My research work on additive manufacturing as a catalyst for low-carbon production, renewable energy transition, and the role of platinum group metals in atmospheric decarbonization directly addresses decarbonisation policies,” he explains.

In biomedical applications, he has developed safer, longer-lasting titanium alloys for hip implants and pioneered infection-resistant materials using nanofibers and copper oxide, a breakthrough that earned a provisional patent. “Implant infection is one of the major causes of implant failure. Our invention would mitigate the frequent occurrence of implant failure and improve the quality of life for implant patients,” he highlights.

His commitment to sustainable manufacturing extends to promoting circular economy principles that optimise resource efficiency and minimise waste. Navigating the interdisciplinary complexities of engineering, health sciences, and business management to taking innovations to market, he said, “Coordinating across these disciplines to create market-ready solutions involves navigating different terminologies, methodologies, and regulatory frameworks, requires the intelligence to navigate inherent interdisciplinary challenges.”

Recognised for his outstanding contributions, Dr. Dzogbewu is the recipient of the Vice-Chancellor’s Mid-Career Award for 2025, affirming his role as a leading academic and researcher.

Looking ahead, he plans to integrate artificial intelligence with materials design to further innovate in energy storage and mining applications. “As a seasoned researcher, I am incorporating AI driving design principles into novel materials development for energy storage and mining applications,” he shares.

His vision is to continue as an established researcher and lecturer in the multidisciplinary field of advanced manufacturing, mechanical engineering, materials engineering, and engineering business management, with an ardent desire to continue acquiring in-depth knowledge of the behaviours of materials in relation to their manufacturability and industrial applications.

Dr. Thywill C. Dzogbewu proudly received the Vice-Chancellor’s Mid-Career Award for 2025 in recognition of his outstanding contributions to multidisciplinary materials engineering research, innovative green manufacturing, and his impactful leadership in bridging academic discoveries with real-world industrial applications. Handing over the award is Prof. Wendy Setlalentoa, Acting DVC: Research Innovation and Engagement (L) and Prof. Pamela Dube, Vice-Chancellor and Principal (R).

Uploaded: 05 November 2025