Webe Kadima

Background

About Webe Kadima

I am currently a full-time faculty member in the Department of Chemistry at the State University of New York at Oswego. My duties include teaching, conducting research and service to the University, the scientific community and society at large. My research interests since my graduate school training span the areas of Bio-Analytical Chemistry, Analytical Biochemistry, Physical Biochemistry, Biomedical and Clinical Sciences. Most of my past experience in Biochemistry and Bio-Analytical Chemistry involves protein(s) systems in aqueous solutions and in biological fluids. Of particular interest to my current research engagement, in the past, I investigated the association of insulin and the effects of metal ions on the T-to-R allosteric changes of the insulin hexamer; both processes are significant in the secretion and actions of insulin in-vivo, as well as in the modulation of the action of insulin preparations administered to people with diabetes. Currently, my research efforts are focused on chemical, biochemical and clinical studies of plants used to treat diabetes in traditional medicine in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The goals pursued are: 1) the development of plant extract-based diabetes medications that are efficacious, safe and affordable for people living in resources challenged regions such as the DRC, 2) the discovery of new anti-diabetic compounds with better therapeutic effects, and 3) improving the infrastructure of the practice of traditional medicine in the DRC. Our research efforts are complemented by a minor assistance to the Medical Center Mwinda in Kinshasa, DRC, and to diabetic patients there, most of whom participate in our clinical studies of the effects of plants extracts. Beyond my research in basic and applied sciences, since 2007, I have engaged in research on the representation, inclusive participation and advancement of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines/ careers.