Dr Vidushi Neergheen leads research at the Biopharmaceutical Unit of the Centre for Biomedical and Biomaterials Research at the University of Mauritius, where she has built a strong scientific agenda connecting traditional medicine, biodiversity, natural products and human health. Her work focuses on nature-derived compounds with potential applications in the prevention and management of cancer, diabetes and other non-communicable diseases. Through interdisciplinary approaches spanning analytical chemistry, molecular biology and cell-based systems, she advances the strategic use of indigenous bioresources for improving public health. Her research vision is grounded in the belief that sustainable innovation can emerge from the scientific validation of local biodiversity and the translation of these findings into functional foods, nutraceuticals and therapeutic leads.
In parallel, Dr Neergheen serves as Director of the Doctoral School at the University of Mauritius. In this role, she works to strengthen doctoral education, support postdoctoral career development and foster a research culture that encourages inquiry, collaboration and scientific integrity. Her leadership contributes to building future scientific capacity for Mauritius and the wider region.
Dr Neergheen is also deeply engaged in regional and global scientific communities. She has contributed to the Global Young Academy, the Organisation for Women in Science in developing countries (Mauritius chapter) and the African Science Leadership Programme. Through this programme, she supports emerging African researchers, helping build a resilient and collaborative network of science leaders who can influence policy and drive innovation across the continent.
Her contributions have been recognised through several distinctions, including her election as a Fellow of the International Science Council, the Merck Africa Research Summit Award, and her selection as a Next Einstein Fellow and Quartz Africa Innovator. These honours highlight her sustained commitment to scientific excellence, leadership and the advancement of research for societal benefit.
