Rate My Professor Niru Nirthanan

Professor S. Niru Nirthanan, MBBS, PhD, FRCP (Lond), FRCP (Edin), SFHEA (UK), FAcadMEd (UK), FAAPE (ASPET), FBPhS, is the Dean of Medicine and Professor of Pharmacology at the School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University. He earned his MBBS and PhD in Pharmacology from the National University of Singapore in 2002. His early career included postdoctoral research in the Cohen Laboratory at Harvard Medical School, focusing on neuropharmacology. At Griffith University, he began as a Senior Lecturer in the School of Medical Science, advancing to Associate Professor before his appointment as Dean of Medicine and Program Director for the Doctor of Medicine program.

Professor Nirthanan's research specializes in neurobiology, pharmacology, and toxinology, with a focus on snake venom toxins and their interactions with nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Key publications include 'Fulditoxin, representing a new class of dimeric snake toxins acting on muscle nAChR' (Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2020), 'Haditoxin, a unique non-covalent dimeric three-finger toxin from the venom of Ophiophagus hannah' (Nature Structural & Molecular Biology, 2010), and 'Student Engagement in Pharmacology Courses Using Online Learning Tools' (American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, 2013). His research has explored potential therapeutic applications of snake toxins for neurological conditions, such as novel molecules for aiding treatments. He has secured funded research grants and contributed to advancements in pharmacological characterization of venom components.

Recognized for excellence in teaching and leadership, Professor Nirthanan has received the Humphrey Rang Prize for Clinical Pharmacology and awards for innovative teaching approaches integrating scientific theory. He is a Fellow of the British Pharmacological Society (elected 2021), the first pharmacologist outside the US inducted into the Academy of Pharmacology Educators (ASPET), Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, and Fellow of the Academy of Medical Educators. Professionally, he serves on committees including Medical Deans Australia and New Zealand, and contributes to pharmacology education globally through lectures and editorial roles.