Akhere A. Omonkhua, PhD
Affiliation
Department of Medical Biochemistry,
School of Basic Medical Sciences,
College of Medical Sciences,
University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria,
Academic Profile
Akhere A. Omonkhua obtained her Bachelors’ and Masters’ degrees in Biochemistry from the University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria, in 1998 and 2002 respectively (both with the class prize). She was awarded a PhD in Toxicology in 2010; her PhD thesis was nominated for the National Universities Commission (NUC) Doctoral Award by the University of Benin in 2012. Prof. Omonkhua started her academic career as an Assistant Lecturer in 2003 at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria. She joined the University of Benin as a Senior Lecturer in 2012 and was promoted to the rank of Professor in October, 2018. Prof. Omonkhua is an active researcher, with major focus on determining the efficacy and safety of local antidiabetic and antimalarial medicinal plants, as well as elucidating the phytochemicals and mechanism(s) of action of these plants. She has nearly 40 journal publications, has presented papers in a number of local and international conferences, and has acted as a resource person and guest speaker at several workshops and seminars in Nigeria. Prof. Omonkhua has been awarded national and international grants and is a member of several scientific societies including the Nigerian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (NSBMB), Nigerian Society for Experimental Biology (NISEB), American Society for Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH), and The Society for Medicinal Plant and Natural Product Research (GA), Germany. Prof. Omonkhua was inducted into the Nigerian Young Academy (NYA) in 2014. She is a reviewer for several national and international journals and a member of the editorial board of Biokemistri. She was Editor, Biological Sciences, Annals of Science and Technology (2015 to May, 2017); and Editor, African Journal of Reproductive Health (AJRH). Prof. Omonkhua has also held a number of administrative positions within and outside the University including Head, Department of Medical Biochemistry (2013-2015); Postgraduate Coordinator, School of Basic Medical Sciences (February 1, 2017 to August, 2018); member of the Project Management Committee (PMC), Centre of Excellence in Reproductive Health Innovation (CERHI), University of Benin; Chairman, CERHI Medical and Research Laboratory Committee; Project Coordinator CERHI (ACE Impact); and associate member, Women Health and Action Research Centre (WHARC).