Announcements

The Outstanding Reviewer Award is given annually in recognition of reviewers who generously contribute their time to reviewing papers and display thoroughness, professionalism, and timeliness in doing so.

We spoke with Dr. Dinesh S. Barak, winner of the Pharmceuticals 2024 Outstanding Reviewer Award, to hear his opinions and ask about his experiences with scientific research and awards.

The following is a short interview with Dr. Dinesh S. Barak:

1. Could you give a brief introduction of yourself to our readers? What is your current research area?
My name is Dinesh S. Barak, and I am currently working as a Postdoctoral Associate in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, USA. I received my PhD in synthetic organic and medicinal chemistry from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. During my doctoral training, I conducted all my research at CSIR–Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), Lucknow. My research primarily focused on the design and synthesis of chemical libraries of drug-like molecules and aimed at identifying potential leads for anti-leishmanial and other anti-infectious disease therapies. Additionally, I was actively involved in developing novel synthetic methodologies for constructing diverse heterocyclic scaffolds, including metal-free decarboxylative coupling reactions and iodine-mediated transformations.
Currently, my research focuses on the synthesis and optimization of dual-acting HIV-1 and HTLV-1 protease inhibitors through the design of structurally diverse analogs and the exploration of multiple synthetic strategies to support comprehensive structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies. Recent efforts have also been directed toward the synthesis of modified nucleosides and their phosphoramidite derivatives targeting the APOBEC enzyme.

2. What factors motivate you to be a reviewer for Pharmaceuticals?
There are multiple factors that drive my interest in serving as a reviewer for Pharmaceuticals. One of the key motivations is the opportunity to enhance my academic presence and actively engage with the broader scientific community. Engaging in peer review lets me analyze research from multiple perspectives, often inspiring fresh ideas and new directions in my own projects.
Beyond that, I find great value in staying involved beyond the bench. Engaging in tasks such as manuscript review not only adds diversity to my professional activities but also contributes meaningfully to my personal and career development.
Moreover, I hold Pharmaceuticals in high regard for its commitment to academic excellence and its wide-reaching, interdisciplinary approach. The journal’s editorial team maintains a professional and efficient review system, and I consider it both an honor and a rewarding responsibility to be part of that process.

3. Could you please share with us your experience as a reviewer for Pharmaceuticals?
Reviewing for Pharmaceuticals has been an enriching and fulfilling experience. The submissions I have assessed have spanned a broad spectrum of subjects, including pharmacological research, therapeutic development, and molecular biology, many of which closely reflect my own areas of expertise. The entire review system is thoughtfully structured, with clear and prompt communication from the editorial team.
What I truly value is the journal’s commitment to constructive peer review. Rather than focusing solely on acceptance or rejection, reviewers are encouraged to offer meaningful suggestions that support authors in enhancing their work. This approach fosters a spirit of academic collaboration and mutual respect.

4. What are the key factors and aspects that you consider most when reviewing a manuscript?
When reviewing a manuscript, I typically concentrate on a few key elements. First, I assess the scientific rationale and overall design of the study to determine if the research question is well-defined and meaningful.
Next, I examine the reliability and robustness of the data, ensuring that the evidence provided adequately supports the conclusions drawn. Logical consistency between results and interpretation is a major focus.
Lastly, I evaluate how effectively the findings are communicated. This includes checking for clarity in data presentation and identifying any instances of exaggerated claims or misinterpretation.

5. As the winner of this award, would you like to take a moment to share your thoughts with our readers or express gratitude towards those who have played a significant role in your research accomplishments?
I am deeply honored to receive the Outstanding Reviewer Award from Pharmaceuticals. This recognition truly motivates me to continue contributing actively to scientific dialogue and the peer review process.
I want to sincerely thank my former mentors and colleagues at CSIR–Central Drug Research Institute. Their expert guidance provided me not only with essential technical skills but also with a strong and disciplined approach to scientific inquiry. Their patient teaching helped me develop a critical and methodical mindset toward research challenges.
I am also very grateful to my current supervisor, Prof. Celia Schiffer, and Dr. Akbar Ali at UMass Chan Medical School for fostering a research environment that encourages independence and exploration. This supportive atmosphere has played a significant role in my growth both personally and professionally.