Abu Serajuddin ’82 Ph.D., a St. John’s Professor of Industrial
Pharmacy and Novartis “Leading Scientist” has been selected by
the American Association of Pharmaceutical Sciences (AAPS) to
receive this year’s Achievement Award in Formulation Design and
Development – the highest honor bestowed by the prestigious
association.
Recognized on many occasions for his notable contributions to the
field of pharmacy, Dr. Serajuddin has spent over 30 years
establishing himself as an expert in field of industrial
pharmacy.
“While there are so many outstanding scientists working in the
area of drug product development, both in academia and industry, I
am honored and at the same time very much humbled by being selected
for this award,” said Dr. Serajuddin.
As a former executive director and manager of several
pharmaceutical companies, including Sanofi-Aventis and
Bristol-Myers Squibb, Dr. Serajuddin brings extensive experience in
pharmaceutical research and development to his teaching at St.
John’s University.
“By sharing my professional experiences with students in the
classroom, I am helping them prepare for successful careers in
pharmaceuticals,” he said. “I hope my varied experiences inspire
them to pursue careers outside the traditional practice of pharmacy
and explore other areas of specialization like industrial
pharmacy.”
Author of over 75 published papers and book chapters, inventor
of 14 patents leading to the development of life-saving medicines
and the winner of three President's Awards from Bristol-Myers
Squibb, Dr. Serajuddin enjoys sharing his knowledge with
students.
“One of my dreams has always been to become an educator,” said
Dr. Serajuddin. “I believe it’s important to educate students
about the endless career options in pharmacy. A lot of people don’t
realize there’s a lot more to pharmacy than just dispensing
medicines in a drug store or hospital.”
Recently selected as the recipient of the 2010 Research
Achievement Award in Formulation Design and Development by the
American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS), Dr.
Serajuddin is still being acknowledged for his contributions to
pharmaceutical research.
Dr. Serajuddin believes wholeheartedly in the mission of the
University and has incorporated service into his undergraduate
curriculum in order to encourage students to be more proactive in
their service to patients and the community.
“I recently developed a program that connects education and
service,” explains Dr. Serajuddin. “I assign projects that relate
to the high cost and affordability of medicines and then students
prepare presentations and papers based on their findings. Once they
are complete, they share them with the community and help patients
in mitigating diseases and affording medicines.”