Zahra Merchant

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT ZAHRA MERCHANT

As an Innovation Project Manager in Research, Development and Innovation, I am dedicated to advancing projects from adeptly maintaining timelines and budgeting to coordinating across teams and communicating updates to stakeholders. My passion lies in developing nanotechnology-driven drug delivery systems and leading the creation of diverse pharmaceutical formulations. In my current role at Evonik, I spearhead the development of a cutting-edge nanoparticle technology for targeted RNA delivery, which has potential applications beyond traditional uses in vaccination and amyloidosis.My experience encompasses formulating polymer and lipid nanoparticles, enhancing mRNA and siRNA encapsulation through novel mixing technologies, and using DoE to optimize production. I am committed to identifying next-generation materials to overcome challenges in gene delivery and cancer chemotherapeutics to further innovation in drug delivery.Working on a range of development and manufacturing projects has been a significant part of my career, including the development of generic injectable medications, risk assessments for regulatory submissions, and process optimization for increased production demands. My involvement extends to formulating simple injectable formulations to complex nanotechnology-based treatments including long-acting injectables and bioavailability-improving liposomal formulations.Holding a PhD and Masters of Research in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Nanomedicine from UCL London, and an earlier academic qualification as a pharmacist, I\'ve contributed my expertise to making significant strides in the pharmaceutical industry.