Lecturer II

Utaji Isaac Ikwu is a Nigerian chemist, educator, and researcher with expertise in organic chemistry, natural products research, and science education. He holds a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Chemistry, a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Organic Chemistry, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE). His academic and research experience spans organic chemistry, phytochemistry, bioorganic chemistry, analytical chemistry, and environmental chemistry, with a focus on the discovery and characterization of bioactive compounds from natural sources. His research is centered on the isolation, characterization, and biological evaluation of phytochemicals and other naturally occurring compounds from medicinal plants and plant-derived oils. He has contributed to scientific studies investigating the physicochemical properties, phytochemical composition, antioxidant activities, anti-inflammatory potentials, and therapeutic applications of natural products. His work utilizes advanced analytical techniques, including chromatographic and spectroscopic methods such as GC-MS, to explore the relationship between chemical composition and biological activity. Utaji's research interests include natural products chemistry, phytochemistry, bioorganic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, analytical chemistry, environmental chemistry, and sustainable applications of plant-derived compounds. He is particularly interested in the identification of bioactive molecules with potential pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and industrial applications, as well as the development of evidence-based approaches for the utilization of indigenous plant resources. In addition to his research activities, he has a strong interest in science and chemistry education, focusing on innovative teaching approaches that enhance scientific literacy and learning outcomes. He is committed to interdisciplinary research, academic excellence, and the advancement of scientific knowledge through collaboration, publication, and mentorship. Research Interests Organic Chemistry Natural Products Chemistry Phytochemistry Bioorganic Chemistry Medicinal Chemistry Analytical Chemistry Environmental Chemistry Medicinal Plant Research Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Studies Oilseed Chemistry and Lipid Analysis Natural Product Drug Discovery GC-MS and Spectroscopic Analysis Sustainable Chemistry Science Education Chemistry Education