CoU faculty wins Asian Young Biotechnologist Award in Japan
Dr Jannatul Ferdous, associate professor and chair of the Pharmacy Department at Comilla University, has won the prestigious “Asian Young Biotechnologist Award 2026” in Japan, becoming the first Bangladeshi researcher to receive the honour.
Dr Ferdous confirmed the achievement on Tuesday (June 2). She was awarded by the Society for Biotechnology, Japan (SBJ) in recognition of her outstanding contributions to biotechnology research.
Speaking about her work, Dr Ferdous said her research focuses on developing advanced drug delivery systems using nanotechnology. She explained that challenges such as solubility and stability often complicate drug formulation, while working with biomolecules like growth factors and proteins presents additional complexities.
“To address these challenges, my research aimed to develop a carrier system using nanotechnology that can effectively deliver biomolecules to targeted sites,” she said.
She added that her work primarily centred on the development of “nanogel dispersion” technology, which can function as a versatile and efficient drug delivery system. The research has already secured a patent in Japan, opening avenues for further expansion and application.
According to Dr Ferdous, this technology has potential applications in treating skin diseases, ocular drug delivery, and even cancer therapy.
Describing the award as one of the most significant achievements of her career, she said it also marks an important recognition for Comilla University.
She attributed her success to years of research, including her PhD work and subsequent research activities conducted in her supervisor’s laboratory in Japan. She expressed gratitude to her Japanese supervisor, colleagues, and lab members for their support.
Dr Ferdous also acknowledged the support she received from Comilla University, including study leave and research assistance, as well as encouragement from colleagues and students. She noted that her family played a vital role throughout her research journey.
Highlighting the potential impact of her work, she said such advanced drug delivery technologies could create new opportunities in Bangladesh’s pharmaceutical sector. Local researchers and companies could leverage these innovations to develop patents, new drug molecules, and improved carrier systems.
She further noted that similar research initiatives in Bangladesh could significantly contribute to advancements in healthcare and pharmaceutical research, particularly in treating complex diseases such as cancer.
The achievement is being seen as a major milestone for research at Comilla University. Academics believe such international recognition will inspire further progress in higher education and scientific research in Bangladesh.
The Society for Biotechnology, Japan (SBJ), established in 1923, is one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious scientific organisations, working to advance research in life sciences and biotechnology.
