Professor Ijeoma Uchegbu Honoured as Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire

About the Role

Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) honour awarded to Professor Ijeoma Uchegbu for her outstanding contributions to the chemical sciences and dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion.

Responsibilities & Achievements

• Leading pharmaceutical research as Chair in Pharmaceutical Nanoscience at University College London.
• Pioneering molecular design of novel pharmaceuticals, including nanosystems for delivering genes and peptides to the brain, drugs to the retina via eye drops, and enhancing oral absorption of hydrophobic drugs.
• Co-founding and serving as Chief Scientific Officer of Nanomerics Ltd., developing precision medicines to reduce development costs, resources, and timelines.
• Advocating for equality in science as UCL’s Pro-Vice Provost for Africa and The Middle East and Provost’s Envoy for Race Equality.

Qualifications & Accolades

• Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences.
• Honorary Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry.
• Recipient of the Women of Outstanding Achievement in Science, Engineering, and Technology award.
• Member of Wellcome’s Board of Governors.

Personal Statement

“I am beyond thrilled to receive this honour. In my wildest dreams, I would never have imagined it. I am very grateful and proud to have been recognised.”