The prestigious award, granted by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) and The Pharmaceutical Journal, recognises early-career researchers from across pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences who demonstrate potential to achieve world-leading status. The winners were selected from a shortlist of five candidates following a rigorous two-stage judging process.

This marks another OPERA award success for Queen's School of Pharmacy, building on previous wins by School researchers.

Dr Anjani was recognised for her outstanding research in developing innovative drug delivery systems, particularly her work on microneedle patches and long-acting implant technologies. Her research addresses critical disease areas including tuberculosis, HIV, diabetes, skin regeneration and schizophrenia, harnessing microneedle technology to deliver high-dose compounds such as antibiotics, antiparasitic and antiviral medications.
 
The Research Fellow's work has significant real-world impact, as she collaborates with leading pharmaceutical companies to scale-up and translate microneedle technology to clinical settings. Her innovative approach also addresses environmental concerns, with her microneedle systems designed to use biodegradable materials, reducing waste and environmental impact.
 
Speaking of her award, Dr Anjani commented:

"I am delighted to have been recognised by the RPS for the contribution my research is making to the advancement of long-acting and minimally invasive drug delivery systems that improve treatment adherence and patient outcomes. This award reflects the collective efforts of the inspiring mentors, collaborators, and students I have had the privilege to work with, both in the UK and internationally."

Diane Ashiru-Oredope, Deputy Chief Scientist (Interim) at the RPS, praised the quality of this year's entries:

"Now in its third year, the Outstanding Pharmacy Early-Career Researcher Award continues to go from strength to strength. Following a rigorous two-stage judging process, we are proud to announce two joint winners, recognised for their outstanding contributions to pharmaceutical sciences and clinical research."

Professor Delyth James from Swansea University, a judging panel member, highlighted the exceptional standard of candidates:

"This year's award was an extremely challenging judging process. Both winners show a strong commitment to mentoring others, helping to develop the research capability and capacity within the pharmacy profession."

Professor Gavin Andrews, Head of the School of Pharmacy at Queen's, said:

"We are immensely proud of Qonita's achievement in winning this prestigious national award. Her innovative research exemplifies the world-class pharmaceutical sciences research conducted at Queen's, and her commitment to translating laboratory discoveries into real-world patient benefits reflects the School's mission to advance healthcare through cutting-edge research. This recognition from the Royal Pharmaceutical Society validates the significant impact our researchers are making on global health challenges."

Both winners will present their research at the RPS conference in London in November.
 
Further information about the OPERA award is available via the Royal Pharmaceutical Society’s website.

Qonita Anjani

School of Pharmacy

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