The University of North Carolina Wilmington is adding a new doctoral program in pharmaceutical chemistry to its roster.

At its latest meeting, the North Carolina Board of Governors approved the sixth doctoral program for the school which will “build on the successful chemistry programs at UNCW,” a press release stated.

“We are excited and pleased to have the North Carolina Board of Governors’ approval for this new doctoral program,” said Paulo Almeida, chair of the UNCW department of chemistry and biochemistry. “I thank our faculty for their dedication in bringing this program to life after years of hard work.”

Under this new doctoral program, students will receive in-depth training in pharmaceutical and medicinal chemistry.

“Graduates will be prepared to join careers in academia, and in the private sector as contributing scientists and project leads for pharmaceutical companies and related chemical industries,” the release stated.

In the past decade, UNCW has graduated about 1,000 students through its chemistry program, which includes bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The doctorate will build on the existing master’s program and will be constructed to integrate seamlessly, according to the release.

“The Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Chemistry is designed to strengthen our connectivity with industry partners and collaborators so that, together, we can elevate our commitment to promoting a healthier tomorrow for our region and state,” said Chris Finelli, dean of the UNCW Graduate School. “The program will provide cutting-edge technology, world-renowned academic faculty, expert industry advisors and the opportunity to tackle current and future health challenges.”

Notable local chemistry industry leaders with ties to UNCW include Yousry Sayed, president and CEO of Quality Chemical Laboratories, who was previously a professor in the UNCW Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and an academic administrator.

In addition to Quality Chemical, which has undergone several expansions including a new 8,000-square-foot facility, Wilmington is home to several CROs including Thermo Fisher (formerly PPD), Alcami Corp., Catalyst Clinical Research, Portrett Pharmaceuticals and more.

Southeastern North Carolina has seen steady growth in the pharmaceutical industry, the release stated, which will require the recruitment of a well-trained workforce which UNCW will aim to meet with this new doctorate.

Currently, UNCW has six doctoral programs including nursing practice, educational leadership, integrative, comparative and marine biology, applied coastal and ocean sciences and psychology.

The new doctoral program is scheduled to launch in fall 2023, pending final approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

“The strategic development of innovative doctoral degree programs, centered on areas of importance to our region and the state, will continue to enhance the university’s academic excellence for years to come,” Chancellor Jose Sartarelli said in the release.