Harendra Parekh

Dr. Harendra Parekh is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at The University of Queensland (UQ), within the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences. He holds an adjunct faculty position at Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal University, India. His research focuses on pharmaceutical medicinal chemistry, advanced drug/gene delivery systems, and innovative formulation-device co-development. Key areas include bioresponsive nanoparticles, sol-gel platforms for nose-to-brain delivery, and ultrasound-mediated drug delivery. He actively collaborates with industry and investors to translate his technologies clinically. Dr. Parekh completed his BScPharm (Honours) and PhD in Medicinal Chemistry (University of Nottingham) and has held roles at UQ since 2005. He is a registered pharmacist and member of professional societies like the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (UK) and AHPRA (Australia).

• Education:
  • BScPharm (Honours I), University of Portsmouth, UK
  • PhD in Medicinal Chemistry, University of Nottingham

His research interests span:

• Non-viral gene delivery systems
• Stabilized peptide therapeutics
• Nanobubble and acoustofluidic technologies
• Ultrasound-enhanced drug delivery
• Cannabinoid extraction and formulation

Dr. Parekh’s work has led to two start-up companies (Preveceutical and Biogenetherapeutics) commercializing his platforms. His lab develops disruptive technologies like bioresponsive linkers, lipid nanoparticles, and intranasal sol-gels. Media attention includes coverage of his nanobubble research in Australian news outlets.

He is available for supervision, advising students on projects like acoustofluidic ocular drug delivery, clozapine sol-gel formulations, and cannabinoid extraction. Over 30+ students have been supervised, with projects funded by NHMRC, ARC, and industry grants. Current research also explores microalgae-derived antimicrobials and opioid peptide alternatives for pain management.

Dr. Parekh’s lab is part of multidisciplinary teams addressing translational challenges in oncology, ophthalmology, and infectious diseases. His work bridges academia and industry, emphasizing clinical translation from bench to bedside.