From Curiosity to Clinical Impact: Shremo Msdi’s Path in Pharmacy Research

In the evolving landscape of translational and clinical research, pharmacists are increasingly stepping into roles that inform patient care and drive innovation. Abdulwhab Shremo Msdi, PharmD, BCIDP, is a research assistant professor in the Department of Translational Research at the University of Houston College of Pharmacy in Texas, where his work exemplifies the growing impact of pharmacist-led research in areas such as infectious disease and microbiome-related chronic conditions. From his first foray into research during pharmacy school to his specialized focus on vancomycin pharmacokinetics and microbiome dysbiosis, Shremo Msdi has built a career rooted in inquiry, mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration. In this interview, Shremo Msdi shares his path from student researcher to academic investigator.

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Pharmacy Times: What brought you to research as a pharmacist, and how has research shaped your work in the field?

Abdulwhab Shremo Msdi, PharmD, BCIDP: My journey into research began during my second year in pharmacy school when I joined our summer research program under the mentorship of Tarsis Brust, PhD. Our primary project focused on a new class of therapeutic agents that target pain receptors, and this experience extended into part-time research throughout the remainder of my pharmacy school. During this time, I was first introduced to research methodology, culminating in the publication of my first research paper and coauthoring a book chapter in neuropharmacology. This early exposure sparked my curiosity and passion for research. After completing pharmacy school, I developed a strong interest in infectious diseases and sought postgraduate training that would allow me to refine my clinical and research skills. Following my PGY-1 residency, I chose to pursue a 2-year infectious disease fellowship rather than a PGY-2 residency. This decision provided me with an incredible opportunity to work under excellent mentors, where I was able to further contribute to the field through research on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of vancomycin. These experiences have significantly shaped my approach to pharmacy practice and research and made me a firm believer in the critical role pharmacists can and will play in clinical research.

Pharmacy Times: Traditionally, what is your role within the research team, and how often are you involved in pharmacist-led research?

Shremo Msdi: I currently serve as a research assistant professor in the Translational Research Department at the University of Houston College of Pharmacy. At present, all of my research is pharmacist-led, with our team focusing on multiple projects investigating microbiome dysbiosis and its role in chronic disease states, including hypertension and recurrent urinary tract infections. These projects are conducted in collaboration with The Garey Lab, which comprises clinical pharmacists and other faculty members with microbiological backgrounds. This collaborative environment highlights the integral role of pharmacists in leading and advancing translational research efforts.

Pharmacy Times: When getting involved with a research team, are you most frequently connected through your institution, or have associations or other groups provided opportunities for research collaboration?

Shremo Msdi: Currently, my research is centered on internal, institution-based collaborations within the University of Houston. However, I maintain ongoing projects with mentors from previous institutions, which allows me to sustain valuable external partnerships. We are exploring opportunities to expand our research efforts with the medical faculty at the University of Houston College of Medicine in the near future.

Pharmacy Times: What are some of your greatest accomplishments, and what is a recent publication showcasing your research that you are proud of?

Shremo Msdi: As a new investigator, I recognize there is still much to achieve in the years ahead. However, I am proud to have received the 2023 resident/fellow travel award from the American College of Clinical Pharmacy [ACCP], a significant milestone in my early career. I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to present my initial research on national platforms, such as ACCP and IDWeek, experiences that have been both rewarding and inspiring. I have also had the privilege of working with exceptional mentors, including Jacinda Abdul-Mutakabbir, PharmD, MPH, AAHIVP; Karen Tan, PharmD, BCIDP; and Kevin W. Garey, PharmD, MS, FASHP, whose guidance has been instrumental in the production of multiple publications.

Most recently, I coauthored a paper that investigated the impact of vancomycin loading doses on drug exposure within the first 24 hours of therapy. This publication holds special significance for me, as it sparked my interest in pharmacokinetics and was the foundation for developing our institution’s vancomycin monitoring protocol.