Chidinma Vivian Onyali

Chidinma was recently awarded the prestigious Commonwealth Scholarship to study for an MSc (Pharmacology) degree at the University of Oxford. Her research interests focuses on NeuroPsychoPharmacology, more specifically on the organization and function of certain neural pathways in the brain (particularly the Mesolimbic Dopaminergic pathway) linked to the onset and sustenance of drug abuse/addiction and how these pathways play a role in linking drug abuse and mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. After her education at Stella Maris College, She proceeded to study at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka where she studied Pharmacy and earned a B.Pharm with a First Class Grade Point Average.

Upon graduation she received Awards of Distinction in Advanced Pharmacology and Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Technology and Industrial Pharmacy, Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry and Environmental medicine, Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacotherapeutics. During her time at the university, She was also able to conduct a research project on the “Formulation and Evaluation of the invitro and invivo properties of Ciprofloxacin Liposomes and Nanoparticles for the treatment of Enteric fever in Africa”. This project was funded by Badische Anilin Und Soda Fabrik (BASF),Germany the largest chemical producer in the world.

In 2015, She worked as an intern Pharmacist at NAFDAC (National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control) and In 2016 she enrolled for the National Youth Service Scheme (NYSC) where she served at the General Hospital, Calabar and also worked with Family Health International (FHi -360), Howard University and USAID in delivering free safe and effective antiretroviral treatment for HIV infected less privileged individuals in remote areas of Cross river state.

Currently Chidinma is a Commonwealth Scholar studying for a Masters in Pharmacology at the University of Oxford. She is passionate about academia and research, In the nearest future she intends lecturing and mentoring students in the university, engaging in research that improves the health and wellbeing of mankind and engaging in raising awareness on the acute and chronic effects of addiction on individuals and the society at large.

In Chidinma’s words about her life in Stella Maris College, “My education at Stella Maris College improved my academic and social skills. I was able to create lifelong friendships that have sincerely endured the test of time. Stella Maris also instilled in me resilience and determination that have been essential to my navigating certain difficult situations and challenges. I miss the snacks, Especially the doughnut and fish rolls. I think they are legendary formulation and any alumni can attest to this. I also miss my friends and teachers some of whom I haven’t been able to reconnect with. However, I am positive that in the nearest future we can all come together, join hands, resources and whatever is needed to effect change in our communities”.