March 18, 2024 | Taylor Graves - UConn School of Pharmacy

Andrew Wiemer Receives the School of Pharmacy 2024 Faculty Research Advising Award

The Faculty Research Advising award is presented annually to a full-time faculty member who has excelled as an advisor for undergraduate or Pharm.D. students performing research in the School.

Professor Andrew Wiemer

Andrew Wiemer, Professor of Medicinal Chemistry, earned his Ph.D. in Molecular & Cellular Biology from the University of Iowa in 2008, followed by a postdoctoral position in Immunology at the University of Wisconsin. He joined the UConn School of Pharmacy in 2012 as an Assistant Professor of Medicinal Chemistry.

In Wiemer’s lab, his research focuses on leveraging the human immune system for cancer therapy, including exploration of emerging immune checkpoints. His researchers come from diverse backgrounds with shared interests and expertise in molecular biology, immunology, drug delivery, and medicinal chemistry. The lab’s academic goals include discovering new bioactive molecules (chemicals and biologics) for potential cancer therapies and providing exceptional training opportunities for students to contribute to future breakthroughs in cancer therapy.

“This award is a testament to Dr. Wiemer’s unwavering support for our students’ growth,” says UConn School of Pharmacy dean, Philip Hritcko.  “His dedication and commitment to our students’ academic and personal growth embodies the core values of our faculty.”

Since joining the School, Wiemer has mentored 32 pharmacy undergraduate students and is currently working with seven in his lab. He also established the Pharmaceutical Sciences Track, with 11 students successfully completing the program, and serves as advisor to the Industry Pharmacists Organization (IPhO).

“I am truly honored to receive the 2024 School of Pharmacy Research Advising Award. UConn is a vibrant community which has allowed me the freedom to pursue my research interests, and I enjoy giving the students an opportunity to follow theirs,” says Wiemer. “Cancer remains a major burden to society, but when I see the enthusiasm of the students for fighting this disease through their research, I am very optimistic about the future. I hope that the time they spend in my lab will prepare them both for developing their careers and for addressing the important healthcare problems we face in America through high-impact research.”

Wiemer will receive his award during commencement weekend in May.