Prof . Helen Hughes, at South East Technological University,Ireland
PROFILE
🎓Early Academic Pursuits :
Prof. Helen Hughes began her academic journey with a B.Sc. in Analytical Science from Dublin City University (DCU), graduating with a 2.1 in 1990. She continued her studies at DCU, earning a Ph.D. in 1993. In 1994, she completed a Quality Auditor certification from Shannon Quality Training, further enhancing her expertise in quality management.
💼Professional Endeavors :
Prof. Hughes’s professional career is marked by a series of impactful roles across academia and industry. She started as an Analyst at Squibb-Linson Ltd. and Schering-Plough Ltd., gaining hands-on experience in the pharmaceutical industry. She then served as a Q.A. Manager at Waterford Foods from 1993 to 1994 and a Research Analyst at Gerard Laboratories in 1994. Since 1994, Prof. Hughes has been a dedicated lecturer at Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT), now South East Technological University (SETU). Her teaching portfolio includes courses in Quality Management and Inorganic Chemistry, and she has been actively involved in course development and industry liaison for the BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical Science program.
🔬Contributions and Research Focus :
Prof. Hughes’s research contributions span various domains, including quality management, molecular imprinted polymers, and drug delivery systems. She has supervised 21 Ph.D. and 2 MSc students to completion and currently mentors seven Ph.D. students. Prof. Hughes has secured over €12 million in competitive research funding and published 52 peer-reviewed articles, a book chapter, and 74 conference proceedings, amassing 2,358 citations and an H-index of 25.
As a founding member of the Pharmaceutical and Molecular Biotechnology Research Centre (PMBRC) and the Eco-Innovation Research Centre (EIRC) at WIT, Prof. Hughes has significantly advanced research in biopharmaceuticals and eco-innovation. Her current research includes leading the (bio)pharmaceutical sub-group for developing the MPharm pharmacy program at SETU and organizing the national environmental conference, Environ 2024.
🏅Accolades and Recognition :
Prof. Hughes’s excellence in research and education has been recognized through various awards and honors. She received the WIT annual award for excellence in postgraduate research supervision in 2009. Additionally, she has served as an expert reviewer for high-impact journals and funding agencies and participated in national panels, such as the review of all IRCSET applications in 2012. Her course leadership of the BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical Science program earned the Pharma Industry Education and Training awards in 2017 and 2022.
🌍Impact and Influence :
Prof. Hughes’s influence extends beyond her research and teaching. She has collaborated extensively with national and international organizations, contributing to industry and academia. Her leadership roles in professional bodies, such as EURACHEM and Excellence Ireland, highlight her commitment to advancing analytical measurement and quality management. Prof. Hughes has also played a pivotal role in mentoring and guiding postgraduate students and staff, fostering a collaborative research environment.
🌟Legacy and Future Contributions :
Prof. Hughes’s legacy is marked by her dedication to research, education, and community engagement. She has left an indelible mark on the academic and scientific communities through her extensive research funding, publications, and student mentorship. Her future contributions are expected to continue influencing the fields of pharmaceutical science and eco-innovation, driven by her ongoing research and leadership in program development.