Dr. Huma Rao

About

With over a decade of diversified experience in the pharmaceutical and academic sectors, I bring a strong background in the operation, maintenance, and training on advanced scientific instrumentation, particularly in analytical chemistry and pharmaceutical quality control. My core expertise lies in high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), where I have developed, validated, and optimized methods for pharmaceutical compounds, both in dosage forms and biological matrices, under stringent regulatory standards.

During my PhD research on HPLC-based quantification of alprazolam and desvenlafaxine, I gained extensive hands-on experience with advanced chromatographic systems including Waters XBridge® C8 columns and UV/Vis detectors, optimizing mobile phase systems and operating conditions for robust performance. I have routinely handled troubleshooting, calibration, and validation of HPLC systems, including buffer preparation, column maintenance, detector calibration, and resolving flow or retention anomalies.

My technical portfolio extends to computational chemistry, having completed certified training in Molecular Dynamic Simulation using AMBER software. This included hardware-software installation on high-performance computing clusters, configuration of simulation protocols, and teaching these techniques through hands-on training programs. I have organized and led technical workshops on computational chemistry, drug design, and modern analytical techniques, thereby empowering postgraduate students and professionals with practical skills in digital drug discovery and data interpretation.

In my capacity as a faculty member and researcher, I have supervised multiple postgraduate theses involving equipment such as GC-MS, UV-Vis spectrophotometers, rotary evaporators, and vacuum filtration units, ensuring equipment readiness and operator training. I have authored or co-authored more than 30 peer-reviewed publications featuring validated experimental protocols using advanced analytical tools and bioanalytical techniques.

Furthermore, I have contributed to the development of training manuals and SOPs for instrument handling and lab safety during my tenure in both academic labs and during collaborative projects. These documents have helped standardize technical operations and ensure compliance with ICH and WHO-GMP guidelines.

My certification in pedagogical training and my involvement in national and international conferences as both organizer and presenter further reflect my capacity to translate complex technical knowledge into accessible learning experiences. As an HEC-approved research supervisor, I continuously foster a technically enriched environment where both accuracy and innovation in equipment use are prioritized.

Areas of Expertise