Lisa Cencia Rohan

Lisa Cencia Rohan is a Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Pharmacy, with cross-appointments in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences (School of Medicine) and the Clinical and Translational Science Institute. She is also an Investigator at the Magee-Womens Research Institute. Dr. Rohan holds a BS in Chemical Engineering and a PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, followed by a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Mucosal Immunology. Her research focuses on drug delivery systems for HIV prevention, particularly vaginal and rectal microbicides, with a strong emphasis on translating preclinical findings into clinical applications. She has developed over 50 pharmaceutical products, 13 of which have advanced to clinical implementation. Current projects include optimizing microbicide formulations (films, gels, tablets) and evaluating their safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics in human tissues.

Her work spans interdisciplinary collaborations, addressing global health challenges through innovations in antiretroviral delivery. Notable contributions include studies on dapivirine and tenofovir-based microbicides, nanoparticle drug carriers, and the impact of endogenous and exogenous factors (e.g., hormones, lubricants) on microbicide efficacy. Dr. Rohan has led Phase I/II clinical trials and contributed to large-scale studies on HIV prevention in sub-Saharan Africa. She emphasizes user-centered design and community engagement in product development to ensure practical applicability.

Grants and funding have supported her lab’s exploration of novel antiviral compounds (e.g., RC-101, EFdA) and combination therapies. Her team investigates drug transporters and metabolic enzymes in genital tissues to optimize drug bioavailability. Despite no explicitly listed awards, her extensive publication record and clinical trial leadership reflect significant recognition in the field.