Chinenye Ojobor, a Nigerian Ph.D. candidate at the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), has earned global acclaim after emerging as the First Place winner at the North Alabama/Wilson Dam American Chemical Society (ACS) Symposium held in the United States in April 2025.
A graduate of Benue State University, where she studied Microbiology with a Biotechnology minor, Ojobor was recognized for her innovative research in antiviral drug development.
Her award-winning project focused on identifying small-molecule inhibitors that target the nsP2 protease in alphaviruses, specifically the Mayaro and Sindbis viruses—both of which pose significant pandemic threats.
Combining expertise in protein engineering, structural biology, and computational drug discovery, her work stood out among various submissions from graduate researchers across the southeastern United States.
The judging panel commended the research for its scientific depth, creativity, and potential impact on global public health.
Speaking after receiving the award, Ojobor said: “This recognition validates the importance of tackling neglected and emerging infectious diseases. I’m honored to represent Nigeria in the global scientific space and contribute to efforts aimed at preventing future viral outbreaks.”
The North Alabama/Wilson Dam ACS Symposium is a prestigious event that attracts chemists, pharmaceutical researchers, and biochemists from across the U.S. Winning the top honor at such a competitive platform is a major milestone in Ojobor’s academic journey and further elevates her standing within the international research community.
Before moving to the U.S. for her doctoral studies, Ojobor had already made a name for herself in Nigeria.
She was named Best Oral Presenter in Medical and Pharmaceutical Microbiology at the 2019 Nigerian Society of Microbiology (NSM) National Conference for her undergraduate work on antidiabetic plant extracts.
Beyond her research achievements, she recently made history by being elected President of the Graduate Student Association at UAH, demonstrating her leadership capabilities and commitment to academic excellence.
Chinenye Ojobor’s accomplishments continue to inspire a new generation of Nigerian scientists, showcasing the potential of homegrown talent on the world stage.
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