My research is centered on engineering sustained-release drug delivery systems for HIV prevention, with a particular focus on polymer-based vaginal film platforms. I investigate how formulation composition and processing parameters influence microstructure, mechanical integrity, mucoadhesion, and long-term drug release performance. By integrating materials science, mechanistic characterization, and preclinical evaluation, my work aims to advance long-acting prevention technologies toward clinical translation.
Graduate Track Affiliation(s)
Pharmaceutics
Graduate Program Affiliation(s)
PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences
Research Interests
I specialize in pharmaceutical formulation and drug product development, with experience spanning preformulation, process optimization, and scale-up–relevant studies for both small molecules and biologics. I apply Quality-by-Design (QbD) frameworks and multivariate Design of Experiments (DoE) to define critical quality attributes, establish design space, and support regulatory-aligned development. My expertise includes biophysical and physicochemical characterization, manufacturability assessment, and cross-functional collaboration in translational CMC environments.
Honors / Awards
First Place, University of Pittsburgh Three-Minute Thesis Competition (2025) Audience’s Choice Award, CRS 2025 Annual Meeting & Exposition YSC Workshop Young Scientist Travel Award, CRS 2025 Annual Meeting Graduate Program Council Travel Award, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy (2025) Selected Podium Oral Presenter, School of Pharmacy Research Retreat (2023, 2025) First Prize Scholarship & Outstanding Graduate, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University (2022)
Recent Publications
Zhang, H., et al. (2025). Development of a One-Month Sustained Release Vaginal Film with Dapivirine for HIV Prevention. Manuscript under review.
Presentations
Identification of Influential Process Parameters in Polymeric Film Manufacturing. AAPS Pharmaceutical Science Research Symposium 2026— Selected Podium Presentation. Machine Learning–Driven Characterization of Topical Films Designed by D-Optimal Approach. 2025 School of Pharmacy Research Retreat — Selected Podium Presentation. A Novel Vaginal Film for HIV Prevention Achieves One-Month Drug Release in Pigtail Macaques. Controlled Release Society (CRS) 2025 Annual Meeting — Selected Young Scientist Travel Award Podium Presentation. Development of a Simple and Discriminatory In Vitro Method for Evaluating Mucoadhesion of Vaginal Drug Products. AAPS Pharmaceutical Science Research Symposium 2025 — Selected Podium Presentation. Poly(vinyl alcohol)-Mucin Hydrogel as an Alternative In Vitro Method for Evaluating Mucoadhesion of Vaginal Thin Films. Research Day in Reproductive Sciences & Women’s Health 2025 — Poster Presentation.
