Dirgha Raj Joshi

Background

About Dirgha Raj Joshi

Hello, I am an Assistant Professor of Medicinal Chemistry at the School of Pharmacy, Karnali Academy of Health Sciences (KAHS), Jumla, Nepal. Transitioning from a remote village farmer to a pharmaceutical Ph.D. and dedicated drug discovery scientist, my journey was shaped by early exposure to medicines through my father's role in a Primary Health Care Centre. The distinct purposes of medications, despite similar colors, fueled my curiosity, laying the foundation for my venture into pharmacy. While the path to becoming a pharmacist held its own respect, my passion drove me toward the forefront of science, dreaming of discovering drugs rather than dispensing them. My ultimate goal has always been to contribute to finding a cure for unnecessary suffering. Fast forward to the present, having completed a PhD in organic chemistry, and refining my technical skills, I am deeply immersed in drug discovery, specifically targeting the coronavirus. Engaged in a USA government-funded priority project at NCATS/NIH, the world's largest biomedical research center, I contribute to developing oral drugs inhibiting the viral protease enzyme—a significant career leap, aligning with my lifelong aspiration to contribute to science and medicine. As a Postdoctoral Scientist at NIH, I am dedicated to finding small molecules for treating SARS-CoV-2. In the Antiviral Program for the Pandemic group, I've synthesized and tested novel compounds with promising antiviral activity, progressing toward patent filing and publication. With over eight years in medicinal and synthetic chemistry, my focus on indolizine derivatives extends to cancer and infectious disease applications. Holding a Ph.D. from Yonsei University, South Korea, I developed four new synthetic methodologies and secured three patents. My academic journey includes an MS from Wonkwang University, South Korea, and a Bachelor of Pharmacy from Pokhara University, Nepal. My contributions include 31 peer-reviewed publications, several conference talks. My passion extends to volunteering and leadership. Serving in roles such as President of SONSIK, National Secretary of Pragyik Vidyarthi Parishad Nepal, and President of CAPS in Nepal, I actively participate in training and mentorship programs. AIM at NIH provided insights into business models and networking. Always ready for new challenges and collaborations, I welcome opportunities to contribute to impactful projects. For inquiries or collaboration, contact me at djmeropaila121@gmail.com.