UCL School of Pharmacy Professor Honored in New Year Celebrations!

Professor Cate Whittlesea, Director of the UCL School of Pharmacy stated: “I am thrilled to hear that Professor Ijeoma Uchegbu has been appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, for contributions to the chemical sciences and to promoting diversity and inclusion. Ijeoma is an inspiring leader, researcher, and educator. She is a globally recognized researcher in innovative pharmaceuticals and has ardently advocated for equality and diversity. Ijeoma is an esteemed colleague, and we at the UCL School of Pharmacy eagerly anticipate celebrating this significant achievement with her.”

Dame Ijeoma serves as the Chair in Pharmaceutical Nanoscience at UCL. She possesses an impressive research career that encompasses everything from the molecular design of new pharmaceuticals to their practical applications, which include the creation of nanosystems that transport genes and peptides to the brain, deliver drugs to the retina via eye drops, and enhance the oral absorption of hydrophobic drugs.

Dame Ijeoma is also the Chief Scientific Officer and co-founder of Nanomerics Ltd., a company that focuses on crafting precision medicines aimed at minimizing development costs, resources, and timelines. The UCL spinout recently received the King’s Award for Enterprise.

She has been a distinguished representative for UCL, recognized for her endeavors in science public engagement as well as being an advocate for equality and diversity. She has previously held the position of UCL’s Pro-Vice Provost for Africa and The Middle East and served as the Provost’s Envoy for Race Equality.

Dame Ijeoma is a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences and an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry. Throughout her career, she has received multiple honors, including the UK Department for Business, Innovation and Skills’ Women of Outstanding Achievement in Science Engineering and Technology award. She is a member of Wellcome’s Board of Governors.

Dame Ijeoma expressed: “I am incredibly excited to receive this recognition. It is something I never could have dreamed of. I am immensely thankful and proud to have been honored.”

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