The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has appointed Swansea University’s Amira Guirguis as its new Chief Scientist.
Professor Guirguis, an accomplished pharmacist independent prescriber and internationally recognised expert in substance misuse, medicines safety, and pharmaceutical science, brings a wealth of experience to the prestigious role. She will lead the Society’s mission to ensure that science remains at the heart of pharmacy, shaping practice, policy, and innovation to improve patient care and public health.
Professor Guirguis holds a PhD in the detection of Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS) and has made significant contributions to drug policy, patient safety, and pharmacy education. Her pioneering research has earned national and international recognition, including the 2014 JPAG Geoffrey Phillips Award. She also served as Principal Investigator for the UK’s first Home Office-licensed pharmacist-led drug checking service.
In 2020, the RPS named her as a “woman to watch” for her leadership and impact in advancing pharmacy. At Swansea University, she serves as MPharm Programme Director and is Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor, demonstrating her commitment to advancing education, science, and inclusive leadership in health and life sciences.
Professor Guirguis described the appointment as an honour: She said: “As a pharmacist, scientist, and educator, I am committed to working with RPS members and stakeholders to strengthen the role of science as the foundation of our profession. I look forward to supporting innovation, research, and evidence-based practice that will improve patient safety and deliver better health outcomes for society.”
Professor Charlotte Rees, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean for the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science at Swansea University, said: “We are immensely proud of Professor Guirguis’s appointment. This is a testament to her outstanding achievements in pharmacy research, education, and policy, and to her leadership on issues of national importance such as substance misuse and patient safety.
“Amira’s appointment further highlights Swansea’s growing reputation for world-leading research and teaching in the health sciences. Her leadership will undoubtedly have a transformative impact on the profession and inspire our students and colleagues alike.”
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