Professor Uchegbu gave an inspiring talk on science and her career in pharmaceutical nanotechnology on Friday 31 January at the Senior School.

She outlined the process for testing medicines before they receive permission for use in the UK, expertly explaining the different stages and the high failure rates for new medicines. She discussed the moment of insight, and showed us the page of the notebook on which she first recorded, when she discovered the structure of a new molecule which is currently being tested. She described the advantages to delivering medicines to the areas where they would be most effective, improving outcomes and minimising side effects.

She also spoke about her own career and the challenges of researching in Nigeria and the UK. She spoke about the levels of time, dedication and belief her work has required, and the difficulties in maintaining these. Her love of science and determination to improve people’s lives was evident to everyone who attended the talk.

After the talk, Professor Uchegbu stayed to speak to students and their families. A large number of the audience stayed too. There was much discussion of how inspirational the talk was, and the consensus was that none of us had come across such a cool academic before. We are very grateful to Professor Uchegbu for sharing her research, intellect and immaculate sense of cool with us.

Professor Uchegbu with her granddaughter, Ameerah, Lower V, who helped to arrange the talk.