Didunoluwa Obilanade

About me

Didun is a Visiting Researcher and Guest Lecturer in Product Innovation at Luleå University of Technology. His research specialises in additive manufacturing (AM) for space applications, with a focus on how design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) can better support engineers in addressing surface roughness and qualification challenges in metal AM, particularly within laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) for aerospace components.

His doctoral thesis, “Design for Additive Manufacturing in the Space Industry: Towards an Understanding of Surface Roughness and Effective Design Support,” developed a novel AM Design Artefact method and advanced understanding of how design and process knowledge can be integrated into effective design support for AM challenges.

Alongside his academic activities, Didun’s primary role is Technical Manager – Robotics and Exoskeleton Technologies at ASTM International, where he leads and delivers global programmes that support the standardisation and adoption of advanced manufacturing, robotics, and exoskeleton technologies. His work focuses on bridging engineering, innovation, and standards through initiatives in training, certification, advisory services, and funded programmes, as well as supporting international standards development through ASTM technical committees.

Before joining ASTM, Didun worked at GKN Aerospace and within the UK Aerospace Growth Partnership, managing advanced manufacturing programmes and supporting policy initiatives to accelerate Industry 4.0 adoption across the aerospace sector. He has collaborated with organisations such as ESA, NASA, and the UK Space Agency, and his contributions to global aerospace research and policy were recognised with the International Astronautical Federation Emerging Space Leader Award (2023).

Didun’s broader interests include design methodology, sustainable product development, and the industrialisation of AM technologies for next-generation space and aerospace systems.