Ongoing research in this area applies biological and physical science principles to the design and optimization of drug delivery. The overall goal is to maximize therapeutic drug utilization over a defined time period with minimal side effects. The following factors are considered when formulating and evaluating drug delivery systems:

1. Suitable dosage form design
2. Appropriate route of administration
3. Utilization of certain biochemical and physiological processes to aid drug delivery
4. Possible chemical derivatives of the drug

Careful control of these variables allows pharmaceutical scientists to modify the rate, extent, and site of the therapeutic effects of drugs. Advances in polymer sciences and molecular biology are leading to the design and formulation of better and more sophisticated delivery systems. Modern research laboratories and instrumentation, including cell culture facilities, cell and molecular biology-related equipment, dissolution and solid-state analysis, and dosage form manufacturing facilities, are available.

Prospective Graduate Students - Apply through WVU School of Medicine