FAMU Researcher Albert Ngo Receives National Early-Stage Investigator Award
Recognition honors his work on targeted nanomedicine for prostate cancer
BETHESDA, Md. — Florida A&M University researcher Albert Nguessan Ngo, Ph.D., has received the 2026 Sidney A. McNairy Jr. Early-Stage Investigator Award for Inclusive Excellence for his work on a targeted nanomedicine approach to prostate cancer treatment.
Ngo is an assistant professor of pharmaceutics in the FAMU College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health. He received the honor during the 2026 Research Centers at Minority Institutions National Conference in Bethesda.
"I am pleased and honored to receive the Sidney A. McNairy Jr. Early-Stage Investigator Award," Ngo said. "Science is a team effort, and I am deeply grateful to my mentors, students, colleagues and the FAMU College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health community."
Established by the RCMI Consortium, the award recognizes promising early-stage investigators whose work advances biomedical research and supports improved health outcomes. The recognition comes as the college celebrates its 75th anniversary.
Ngo's research centers on a targeted, multilayer nanomedicine designed to improve the delivery of prostate cancer treatment. His freeze-coating technique is intended to deliver therapy more precisely and reduce effects on cells outside the treatment target. The approach could have applications in advanced prostate cancer.
"Dr. Ngo's achievement reflects both his remarkable scientific accomplishments and his dedication to improving the health and well-being of diverse populations," said Vanessa B. Sheppard, Ph.D., dean of the college and assistant vice president for Health Science Enterprise and Research Innovation. "This recognition affirms the importance of research that addresses health disparities and advances cancer treatment."
Karam F.A. Soliman, Ph.D., associate dean for research and graduate studies, distinguished professor of pharmaceutical sciences and principal investigator for FAMU's RCMI program, said the honor reflects Ngo's scientific rigor, creativity and commitment to biomedical research.
"This honor is richly deserved, and I am proud to see Dr. Ngo's impactful scholarship recognized at the national level," Soliman said. "I look forward to witnessing the continued growth and influence of his research program."
The award is named for Sidney A. McNairy Jr., Ph.D., D.Sc., a longtime National Institutes of Health leader who helped strengthen research capacity at minority-serving institutions. FAMU has housed an RCMI program for 41 years, supporting research infrastructure, emerging investigators and work focused on reducing health disparities.
About the FAMU College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health
The Florida A&M University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health is the only pharmacy program in the United States with a fully accredited Institute of Public Health. The college prepares scholars to become skilled professionals and advance health equity in the communities they serve.
Media Contact
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
