معرفی
Jacqueline Smith is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Howard University's College of Arts & Sciences. Her research program focuses on developing small-molecule therapeutics and bioanalytical tools for cancer and neurological diseases, with a strong emphasis on organic synthesis and drug discovery.
Dr. Smith earned her Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Maryland, College Park, and completed postdoctoral research at Georgetown University. She is deeply committed to STEM outreach and education, particularly in supporting underrepresented minorities in organic chemistry.
- Ph.D. in Chemistry, University of Maryland, College Park (2011)
- B.S., University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), Meyerhoff Scholarship Program
- Postdoctoral Research, Georgetown University, Drug Discovery Lab
Her research interests lie at the intersection of Organic Synthesis, Chemical Biology, and Drug Discovery, with specific focus on microwave-assisted synthesis of imidazole compounds to combat cancer resistance, and the development of fluorescent theranostic agents for targeted drug delivery and imaging, particularly in triple-negative breast cancer and brain delivery. She also explores quorum sensing modulation in bacterial systems.
Her recent publications reveal a consistent trend in leveraging synthetic chemistry to address complex biological problems, spanning cancer therapeutics, neurodegenerative disease, and antimicrobial strategies. The work combines methodological innovation in synthesis with rigorous biological evaluation, demonstrating a translational and interdisciplinary approach.
Dr. Smith has been recognized with prestigious awards, including:
- NSF CAREER Award
- NSF EiR Award
She has actively mentored over 30 undergraduate and high school students and has secured significant research funding. Her lab operates at the forefront of chemical biology, developing novel tools and therapies. The Smith Research Lab is a dynamic team working on innovative projects in cancer resistance, theranostic drug delivery, and bacterial communication.
