Praveen Nekkar Rao

Dr. Praveen Nekkar Rao is an Associate Professor in the Department of Medicinal and Bioorganic Chemistry at the University of Waterloo, cross-appointed to the Departments of Biology and Chemistry within the Faculty of Science. His research focuses on rational drug design, medicinal chemistry, and the development of therapeutic agents for neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, and viral infections. He holds a PhD in Pharmaceutical Science (University of Alberta, 2004) and postdoctoral training at The Scripps Research Institute (2006–2008) and the University of Alberta (2004–2005).

Dr. Rao’s work integrates molecular modeling, synthetic organic chemistry, and high-throughput screening to discover novel drug candidates. Key areas include amyloid aggregation inhibitors for Alzheimer’s disease, TDP-43-binding ligands for neurodegenerative diseases, and repurposing DPP4 inhibitors for SARS-CoV-2. He collaborates internationally with institutions such as the University of Alberta, Florida Atlantic University, and Daping Hospital, China.

• Teaching: Courses in medicinal chemistry, toxicology, and patient-focused care (e.g., PHARM 141, PHARM 220–224, PHARM 320–324).
• Awards: 2021–22 and 2016 Outstanding Faculty Mentor, 2015 Early Researcher Award (Ontario).
• Labs: Medicinal and Bioorganic Chemistry Lab at Waterloo, focusing on peptide synthesis, medicinal chemistry, and drug discovery.

His research has led to patents (e.g., Indolizine derivatives, WO2013116948) and media coverage for breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s therapy and antiviral strategies.