Nardine Nakhla | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Global Scholar Awards

Prof. Dr. Nardine Nakhla | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at University of Waterloo, Canada

Dr. Nardine Nakhla is an Associate Professor in the Teaching Stream at the University of Waterloo. She is a community pharmacist with expertise in self-care, minor ailments, and non-prescription medications. Since 2008, she has designed and delivered courses on assessing self-treating patients and managing common illnesses through over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. Dr. Nakhla is also a renowned speaker at national and international forums and has contributed a chapter on Canadian minor ailments. In addition to her academic roles, she actively participates in pharmacy education, mentoring, and public health initiatives, focusing on the safe use of non-prescription medications. Dr. Nakhla also writes for Pharmacy Practice+, offering insights on current OTC counseling issues.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Nakhla completed her PharmD at Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in New York, USA, in 2007. Her academic background equips her to explore various facets of community pharmacy, particularly focusing on non-prescription therapeutics, minor ailments, and self-care. Her educational experience has shaped her commitment to improving community-based healthcare through research and teaching, contributing significantly to the curriculum development in pharmacy schools.

Professional Experience

Dr. Nakhla’s professional experience spans community pharmacy practice and academia. She is the co-owner and pharmacist at Ash Medical Pharmacy. In addition, Dr. Nakhla has worked extensively with the Ontario College of Pharmacists and has contributed to pharmacy practice guidelines. She serves as the Founder & Vice Chair of the AFPC Self-Care Therapeutics and Minor Ailments Special Interest Group (SIG). Her leadership and active participation in various committees reflect her dedication to improving the quality of pharmaceutical care, specifically in the area of self-care and minor ailment management.

Research Interest

Dr. Nakhla’s research focuses on the clinical and economic outcomes of pharmacist prescribing for minor ailments. She is particularly interested in understanding how community pharmacists assess and triage self-treating patients and the factors influencing over-the-counter (OTC) product selection. Another major area of her research involves examining the role of pharmacists in expanding their scope of practice, particularly in relation to non-prescription therapeutics and self-care. Dr. Nakhla is also dedicated to investigating the impact of pharmacist-driven self-care education, patient counseling, and its broader effect on health system outcomes. Her research contributions aim to enhance the quality of community pharmacy practice and empower patients and healthcare providers in the safe and effective use of non-prescription medications.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Nakhla has received several prestigious awards recognizing her excellence in teaching and pharmacy practice. In 2023, she was honored with the Distinguished Teaching Award from the University of Waterloo. Other notable recognitions include the 2021 Inspirational Pharmacy Professionals Award from the Ontario Pharmacists Association, the Pfizer Bowl of Hygeia Award in 2020, and the Excellence in Science Teaching Award from the University of Waterloo in 2020. Dr. Nakhla’s exceptional contributions to pharmacy education, research, and patient care have earned her numerous accolades, including the Excellence in Pharmacy Teaching Award and being nominated for Canada’s Top 40 Under 40. These honors underscore her commitment to advancing the field of pharmacy and enhancing the role of pharmacists in community healthcare.

Publications Top Noted

  • Perioperative opioid-sparing strategies: utility of conventional NSAIDs in adults
    Authors: L Martinez, E Ekman, N Nakhla
    Year: 2019
    Citation: 113
  • Further evidence to monitor long-term proton pump inhibitor use
    Authors: KN Hayes, NR Nakhla, M Tadrous
    Year: 2019
    Citation: 17
  • Economic evaluation of pharmacists prescribing for minor ailments in Ontario, Canada: a cost-minimization analysis
    Authors: JJ Kim, AH Tian, L Pham, N Nakhla, SKD Houle, WWL Wong, …
    Year: 2021
    Citation: 16
  • Non-prescription proton-pump inhibitors for self-treating frequent heartburn: the role of the Canadian pharmacist
    Authors: D Armstrong, N Nakhla
    Year: 2016
    Citation: 14
  • Prevalence of prescription and non-prescription polypharmacy by frailty and sex among middle-aged and older Canadians
    Authors: DA Harris, Y Guo, N Nakhla, M Tadrous, DB Hogan, D Hennessy, …
    Year: 2022
    Citation: 10
  • Self-care education across Canadian pharmacy schools: Curriculum survey findings
    Authors: N Nakhla, E Black, H Abdul-Fattah, J Taylor
    Year: 2021
    Citation: 9
  • Pharmacist prescribing for minor ailments service development: the experience in Ontario
    Authors: N Nakhla, A Shiamptanis
    Year: 2021
    Citation: 8
  • Pharmacist-led Smoking Cessation Care in Canada: Current Status & Strategies for Expansion
    Authors: N Nakhla, R Killeen, K Butt
    Year: 2019
    Citation: 5
  • Self-care and minor ailments: The view from Canada
    Authors: N Nakhla, J Taylor
    Year: 2024
    Citation: 4
  • An infographic assignment to translate self-care therapeutics into practical application
    Authors: P Malik, N Nakhla
    Year: 2020
    Citation: 4
  • Pharmacists’ knowledge, perceptions and practices regarding frailty: a cross-sectional survey across practice settings in Canada
    Authors: P Malik, N Nakhla, Y Guo, M Tadrous, A Duqoum, DB Hogan, CJ Maxwell
    Year: 2023
    Citation: 3
  • Instructor-blinded study of Pharmacy Student Learning when a flipped Online Classroom was implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic
    Authors: PRV Malik, N Nakhla
    Year: 2022
    Citation: 2

Chinenye Ugwah-Oguejiofor | Pharmaceutical Science |Best Researcher Award

Published on by Global Scholar Awards

Dr. Chinenye Ugwah-Oguejiofor | Pharmaceutical Science |Best Researcher Award

Reader at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto , Nigeria (Academia).

Dr. Chinenye Jane Ugwah-Oguejiofor is a Nigerian pharmacologist and toxicologist with over two decades of academic and research experience. She holds a PhD in Pharmacology from the University of Nigeria and is currently a Reader at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. Her research focuses on natural products, particularly Caralluma dalzielii, with studies addressing public health issues such as fertility, cervical cancer, malaria, and snakebites. She has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, showcasing her contributions to pharmacological science. Dr. Ugwah-Oguejiofor’s work also includes computational drug discovery, examining bioactive compounds for potential therapeutic applications. Her academic journey reflects a deep commitment to education, mentorship, and advancing pharmaceutical research. While her work is regionally impactful, expanding international collaborations and exploring patent opportunities could further enhance her global research profile. Overall, Dr. Ugwah-Oguejiofor is a dedicated and influential figure in her field.

Profile:

Education

Dr. Chinenye Jane Ugwah-Oguejiofor’s education reflects a strong foundation in pharmacology and related fields. She earned her Bachelor of Pharmacy (B. Pharm.) degree in 2001 from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, followed by a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Pharmacology from Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto in 2011. Her academic pursuit culminated in 2018 when she received her PhD in Pharmacology from the University of Nigeria. Additionally, she completed a diploma in computer studies in 2003 from Rima Computer Training Institute, Sokoto, which adds a valuable dimension to her research skills, particularly in bioinformatics and computational drug discovery. This robust academic background, spanning undergraduate to doctoral studies, has equipped her with the knowledge and skills to make significant contributions to pharmacological research. Dr. Ugwah-Oguejiofor’s educational achievements underpin her extensive research work in natural products and toxicology, positioning her as a prominent figure in the field of pharmaceutical sciences.

Professional Experience

Dr. Chinenye Jane Ugwah-Oguejiofor has a rich professional experience in pharmacology and academia, spanning over two decades. She began her career as an intern pharmacist at Ebonyi State University Teaching Hospital (2001-2002), followed by a year as a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) pharmacist at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital. She then served as a Superintendent Pharmacist in various pharmacies, gaining practical expertise in the field. In 2008, Dr. Ugwah-Oguejiofor transitioned into academia as an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at Usmanu Danfodiyo University. She steadily rose through the ranks, becoming a Senior Lecturer by 2019 and a Reader in 2022. Throughout her career, she has conducted significant research in pharmacology, focusing on natural products and toxicology, while mentoring students and contributing to curriculum development. Her professional journey highlights a blend of clinical practice and academic excellence, with a strong emphasis on research and education.

Research Skills

Dr. Chinenye Jane Ugwah-Oguejiofor possesses a diverse set of research skills honed through her extensive work in pharmacology and toxicology. Her expertise lies in natural product research, particularly focusing on the pharmacological properties of medicinal plants like Caralluma dalzielii. She has a strong command of both in vivo and in vitro experimental methodologies, demonstrated by her studies on fertility, cancer, malaria, and antimicrobial activities in animal models. Additionally, her proficiency in bioinformatics and cheminformatics is evident in her computational drug discovery projects, where she explores the molecular mechanisms of bioactive compounds using docking and pharmacophore modeling. Dr. Ugwah-Oguejiofor’s research also extends to toxicity assessments, evaluating the safety of plant extracts in various biological systems. Her ability to integrate traditional pharmacology with modern computational tools enhances the depth of her research. Her strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals further underscores her skills in data analysis, scientific writing, and collaborative research.

Award and Recognition

Dr. Chinenye Jane Ugwah-Oguejiofor has garnered recognition for her contributions to pharmacology and toxicology, particularly through her impactful research on natural products. While specific awards and honors have not been detailed, her academic promotions, including her rise to the position of Reader at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, reflect her recognition within the academic community. Her extensive publication record in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals such as Drug and Chemical Toxicology and Journal of Ethnopharmacology also demonstrates her research’s value and her standing in the scientific community. Dr. Ugwah-Oguejiofor’s work on key public health challenges like cancer, malaria, and fertility issues in the African context has likely contributed to her growing reputation. She has been involved in several collaborative research projects, both nationally and internationally, further validating her expertise. Although formal awards are not mentioned, her academic achievements and consistent research output are testament to her recognition as a leading figure in her field.

Conclusion

Dr. Chinenye Jane Ugwah-Oguejiofor is a highly competent and productive researcher whose work addresses critical health issues, particularly within the context of pharmacology and toxicology. Her extensive publication record, focus on indigenous medicinal plants, and long-standing academic career make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. However, to further strengthen her candidacy, she could benefit from expanding international collaborations, securing more research grants, and pursuing innovation through patents.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Acute and sub-acute toxicity of aqueous extract of aerial parts of Caralluma dalzielii NE Brown in mice and rats
    • Authors: C.J. Ugwah-Oguejiofor, C.O. Okoli, M.O. Ugwah, M.L. Umaru, C.S. Ogbulie, …
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 131
  2. A Computational Approach to Elucidate the Interactions of Chemicals From Artemisia annua Targeted Toward SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease Inhibition for COVID-19
    • Authors: T.O. Johnson, A.E. Adegboyega, O.A. Ojo, A.J. Yusuf, O. Iwaloye, …
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 40
  3. Comparative studies of anti-ulcerogenic activities of three Nigerian medicinal plants: a preliminary evaluation
    • Authors: M.O. Ugwah, E.U. Etuk, S.O. Bello, A.A. Aliero, C.J. Ugwah-Oguejiofor
    • Year: 2013
    • Citations: 34
  4. Ethno botanical studies of medicinal plants used in the management of Peptic ulcer disease in Sokoto State, North Western Nigeria
    • Authors: A.C. Oluranti, U.O. Michael, U.O.C. Jane, N.A. Ayembe
    • Year: 2012
    • Citations: 30
  5. Evaluation of the antiulcer activity of the aqueous stem bark extract of Balanites aegyptiaca L Delile in Wistar rats
    • Authors: M.O. Ugwah, C.J. Ugwah-Oguejiofor, E.U. Etuk, S.O. Bello, A.A. Aliero
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 28
  6. Evaluation of the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effect of Caralluma dalzielii
    • Authors: C.J. Ugwah-Oguejiofor, K. Abubakar, M.O. Ugwah, A.A. Njan
    • Year: 2013
    • Citations: 27
  7. Ficus platyphylla promotes fertility in female Rattus norvegicus Wistar strain: a preliminary study
    • Authors: C.J. Ugwah-Oguejiofor, S.O. Bello, R.U. Okolo, E.U. Etuk, M.O. Ugwah, …
    • Year: 2011
    • Citations: 25
  8. Drug utilization pattern in pregnancy in a tertiary hospital in Sokoto, North West
    • Authors: K. Abubakar, R. Abdulkadir, S.B. Abubakar, A.O. Jimoh, …
    • Year: 2014
    • Citations: 24
  9. Antioxidant and antikindling effect of Tapinanthus globiferus growing on Ficus glumosa in pentylenetetrazole induced kindled rats
    • Authors: K. Abubakar, A.T. Yunus, M.R. Abubakar, J.C. Ugwah-Oguejiofor, …
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 20
  10. Phytochemical screening and anticonvulsant activity of the residual aqueous fraction of Tapinanthus globiferus growing on Ficus glumosa
    • Authors: K. Abubakar, I.M. Adebisi, J.C. Ugwah-Oguejiofor, G.O. Idris, B. Idris, …
    • Year: 2016
    • Citations: 20
  11. Antidiarrhoeal activity of the saponin and flavonoid fractions of Anarcadium occidentale leaves in albino rats
    • Authors: K. Abubakar, M.R. Abubakar, J.C. Ugwah-Oguejiofor, A.A. Muhammad, …
    • Citations: Not available