He is a medical doctor with specialization in Immunology (MD, 1996), (PhD Biochemistry UWI, 2004), and an MSc in Oncology graduated from Newcastle University (UK) in 2022. He has extensively published. He has more than 2200 citations in Google Scholar. With MDPI he has seven papers online. At the UWI St. Augustine Campus, he is a senior lecturer, teaches immunology, and supervises postgraduate students in immunology and microbiology. His topics of interest include SLE, medical microbiology, clinical immunology, biochemistry, and oncology. He has had several research prizes during his career. He has been the founding President of the West Indian Immunology Society (WIIS) since 2021. The WIIS is a part of the International Union of Immunological Society. He is a very active scientist who participates in International Conferences and Congresses on various topics.
Dr. Bijay Raj Pandit is a dedicated microbiologist and academic currently a lecturer in the Department of Paraclinical Sciences at the University of the West Indies (UWI). With a PhD in Microbiology, Dr. Pandit has made significant contributions to medical microbiology, particularly in infectious diseases.
At
UWI, Dr. Pandit is actively involved in teaching a diverse range of students,
including those pursuing undergraduate degrees in MBBS, B Pharmacy, and Nursing, including postgraduate students. His teaching approach integrates both theoretical knowledge and
practical application, ensuring that students are equipped with the critical
thinking and laboratory skills necessary to thrive in the healthcare field. Dr.
Pandit also contributes to Problem-Based Learning (PBL) sessions, fostering a
collaborative learning environment that encourages students to engage deeply
with real-world clinical scenarios.
Dr. Pandit is actively engaged in research, focusing on advancing the understanding of microbial diseases and their impact on public health. He works closely with colleagues and students on various research projects, aiming to address pressing health challenges in the Caribbean and globally. His contributions to the academic community extend beyond the classroom, as he is also involved in various university activities that promote the growth of the institution and the development of the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Dr.
Chandrashekhar G. Unakal holds the position of a senior lecturer in
Microbiology at the Dept. of Paraclinical Sciences, The University of the
West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago. He is the coordinator of
the postgraduate programs (MSc, MPhil, and PhD) in Medical Microbiology in which he plays a pivotal role in shaping the curriculum
and guiding students through their academic and research activities. Dr. Unakal's research expertise lies in the fields of microbiology
and immunology, where he has made significant contributions through his
extensive publications. His work is well-regarded in the academic community,
reflecting his deep commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and
understanding. Having earned his PhD at one of India's premier institutions,
Dr. Unakal brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role. His
academic journey and professional accomplishments highlight his dedication to
the field of microbiology and his ability to inspire and mentor students. Dr.
Unakal is renowned for his student-centered approach to teaching, prioritizing
the educational and professional development of his students. In addition to
his responsibilities within the master's program, he also imparts his
knowledge to MBBS students, ensuring they receive a solid foundation in
microbiology. His commitment to education and research continues to make a
significant impact on the academic community at the University of the West
Indies
Dr. Sehlule Sinqobile Vuma is a medical
doctor and also a specialist hematologist. She also has a postgraduate award in
Molecular Diagnostic Techniques. Dr. Vuma is a Fellow of the College of
Pathology in Haematologist (FCPath Haem); and a Masters in Medical Education (Univ
of Dundee, UK). She has received a postgraduate award in University Teaching
and Learning, a postgraduate diploma in HIV Management, Certification in Medical Writing
(Monster Academy, UK and has been a lecturer for over 18 years. Dr. Vuma has
been a course convener for over 13 years in the Department and University and
has actively been involved in teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students.
She belongs to several medical organizations including the West Indian Immunological
Society (WIIS), Association for Medical Education in Europe (AMEE), Medical
Research Management, Alumni, (USA), American Society of Hematologists (ASH), Colleges
of Medicine of South Africa, South African Society of Haematologists.
Professor
Dr. Akpaka, Eberechi Patrick is a distinguished consultant microbiologist, known
for his leadership and scholarly contributions. He is a medical graduate from
the University of Nigeria (UNN). He also holds a Doctor of Medicine (DM Microbiology)
from the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus. He is currently the head
of the Department of Paraclinical Sciences at the University of the West
Indies, St. Augustine Campus, and the Program Director of DM Microbiology. He
established the MSc Medical Microbiology program at the university department, showcasing
his commitment to knowledge transfer, higher education, and mentorship. He is a
fellow of the Infectious Diseases Society of America (FIDSA), and a founding member
of the Caribbean Association of Clinical Microbiologists (CACM). He is also a
member of the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) and the European Society
of Clinical and Infectious Disease (ESCMID). Throughout his career, he has mentored young
researchers, fostering innovation. His collaborative spirit
transcends borders, as he partners with scientists from various countries. Professor Akpaka has published extensively in areas of molecular epidemiology and diagnostics of multidrug-resistant organisms of public health importance. He is a reviewer for several journals and an editorial board member of some journals.