Aqsa Arif, a PhD student at the L.E.J. Nanotechnology Center, H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, University of Karachi (UoK), has garnered international acclaim by winning the poster award in the Good Health and Wellbeing (SDG 3) category at the esteemed 5th Commonwealth Chemistry Posters virtual event. Competing among researchers from 28 countries, Aqsa’s innovative work was honored for its potential to significantly impact global health and sustainability.

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Hosted by Commonwealth Chemistry in collaboration with the Federation of Chemical Sciences Societies, UK, the event took place virtually in September 2024, gathering young researchers and experts from across the globe. According to a statement by the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS) at Karachi University, Aqsa is conducting her PhD research under the supervision of Dr Mujeeb-ur-Rehman, contributing to groundbreaking advancements in medicinal chemistry.

Aqsa’s award-winning research, titled “Prodrugs of Methylprednisolone Nanoparticles: Effective Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Analgesic Agents,” focuses on the development of nanoparticle-based prodrugs for enhanced therapeutic outcomes in treating inflammation and pain. Her work was selected as the best in the SDG 3 category, securing her a cash prize of £200 and a winner’s certificate in recognition of her contributions.

Prominent figures from the academic community congratulated Aqsa and her mentor. Prof Dr Farzana Shaheen, Director of ICCBS, praised her accomplishment as a milestone that highlights Pakistan’s growing presence on the international scientific stage. The University of Karachi’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof Dr Khalid Mehmood Iraqi, and Professor Emeritus Dr Atta-ur-Rahman, former Federal Minister for Science and Technology, also lauded her for this achievement, emphasizing the pride she brings to the nation and the university.

This recognition serves as a testament to the potential and excellence of Pakistani students in contributing to global scientific progress, especially in fields aligned with sustainable development and public health.

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