Renowned Chemist, Professor Dulcie Mulholland, Advocates Increased Research in Natural Products Chemistry at UNILAG
Renowned Chemist, Professor Dulcie Mulholland, delivered a compelling public lecture at the University of Lagos on April 29, 2024, emphasizing the importance of Natural Products Chemistry research.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
Renowned Chemist, Professor Dulcie Mulholland, from the University of Surrey, United Kingdom, delivered an enlightening public lecture at the University of Lagos, highlighting the significance of Natural Products Chemistry research. Addressing the audience at the Department of Pharmacognosy's Public Lecture on April 29, 2024, Professor Mulholland emphasized the importance of investing in this field and outlined its myriad benefits.
During her presentation titled "Why we study Natural Products Chemistry: Some examples of successful projects," Professor Mulholland delved into the historical and scientific significance of natural products in drug discovery. Drawing from ancient civilizations like Egypt and China, she showcased how natural products have played a crucial role in the development of medicinal treatments over centuries.
Professor Mulholland underscored the commercial and medical value of natural products, citing examples from her research in South Africa. She highlighted the efficacy of African traditional medicine, such as the Asteracea leaf used as an oral analgesic and Grewia occidentalis, which eases childbirth, as compelling evidence of nature's healing properties.
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Advocating for increased investment in Natural Products Chemistry research, Professor Mulholland outlined nine reasons for its importance. She emphasized that such investments would lead to a deeper understanding of nature, validation of natural product uses, and the discovery of new drugs and agrochemicals. Additionally, she highlighted the economic benefits that such research could bring, particularly for countries like Nigeria, and the potential for fruitful collaborations in the field.
In his introductory remarks, Prof. S.A. Adesegun, Head of the Department of Pharmacognosy, lauded Professor Mulholland as an exemplary figure in Natural Products Chemistry. He expressed gratitude for her willingness to share her extensive knowledge and experience, which spans over 250 publications and the supervision of 50 PhD candidates.
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The public lecture, conducted in a blended format with both physical and virtual attendance, attracted students, industry practitioners, and senior members of the Faculty, including the Dean, Prof. Adepoju Bello. The event served as a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, further highlighting the importance of Natural Products Chemistry research in advancing scientific understanding and improving healthcare.
Professor Dulcie Mulholland's compelling presentation at the University of Lagos shed light on the critical role of Natural Products Chemistry in drug discovery and medicinal research. Her advocacy for increased investment in this field underscores its potential for scientific advancement, economic growth, and collaboration. The public lecture served as a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to gain insights and foster partnerships in advancing research and innovation in Natural Products Chemistry.
