Ricky Chen

Ricky Chen is a Lecturer in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Western Australia’s School of Biomedical Sciences. He serves as International Academic Coordinator and holds roles in the Curriculum Oversight Sub-Committee and Learning and Teaching Committee. His research focuses on receptor pharmacology, particularly glycine receptor modulation by compounds like dihydropyridines and beta-carbolines, with implications for neuropharmacology and drug development.

Education includes a BSc (Hons) in Biotechnology from Sichuan University, MSc in Molecular Neurosciences from the University of Bristol, and PhD in Molecular Pharmacology from the University of Queensland. He also holds a GCHEd (Graduate Certificate in Higher Education) from the University of Queensland.

His research interests span glycine receptor pharmacology, drug-receptor interaction mechanisms, and molecular determinants of receptor efficacy. Recent work explores subunit-specific inhibition/potentiation effects of compounds on glycine receptors, contributing to understanding neurological pathways and potential therapeutic applications.

In teaching, Chen coordinates units like PHAR2210 Foundations of Pharmacology and PHAR1101 Drugs That Changed the World. He received a 2014 UWA Improving Student Learning grant for enhancing laboratory preparation through interactive materials.

Notable recognition includes a 2020 Excellence in Teaching Award nomination (team award). His work bridges basic pharmacology research with educational innovation in science communication and critical evaluation skills development.