Abu Serajuddin ‘82Ph.D.

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.”