Pharmacy gave me foundation to ask right questions, immunology gives me tools to find answers —Deborah Agbakwuru, US-based doctoral researcher

Deborah Agbakwuru: Bridging Pharmacy and Immunology in the Pursuit of Scientific Answers

Deborah Agbakwuru’s journey from clinical pharmacy in Nigeria to cutting-edge immunological research in the United States is a compelling story of intellectual curiosity, professional evolution, and a deep commitment to improving human health.

In a recent interview, she shared how her foundational training in pharmacy laid the groundwork for asking the right scientific questions, while her current doctoral research in immunology equips her with the tools to uncover answers that could transform treatment outcomes.

Deborah’s fascination with medicine began early in life, driven by a curiosity about how drugs work and how something so small could alleviate suffering or save lives. This led her to study pharmacy in Nigeria, where she not only gained scientific knowledge but also developed a strong sense of empathy through clinical rotations.

These experiences, especially interacting directly with patients, instilled in her a profound respect for the trust and responsibility embedded in every prescription. Initially envisioning a career in clinical pharmacy, she worked in both hospital and community settings. 

However, her desire to understand the deeper mechanisms behind treatment efficacy, why some therapies succeed for certain patients but fail for others, sparked a shift toward research.

Without pursuing a master’s degree, Deborah was accepted directly into a PhD program at the University of Montana, a path common in the U.S. for candidates with strong academic and research potential. Her decision to study abroad was motivated by the need for specialized training not readily available in Nigeria at the time. She secured her doctoral position through a competitive application process and is funded by a departmental graduate assistantship that covers both tuition and living expenses.

Her transition from pharmacy to immunology was driven by a desire to move beyond dispensing medications to understanding how the body itself responds to them. She explains that pharmacy gave her the clinical insight to ask meaningful questions, while immunology provides the scientific framework to explore those questions. Her research focuses on T cell biology and immune cell communication, particularly a process called trogocytosis, where immune cells “nibble” pieces off other cells during contact. This cellular exchange, she argues, is a powerful form of communication that challenges traditional views of immune signaling.

Deborah’s thesis investigates how the strength of T cell receptor (TCR) affinity influences trogocytosis and subsequent signaling. In essence, she studies how immune cells exchange information through physical interaction, a process that could unlock new approaches to immunotherapy, enhance vaccine responses, and even predict cancer treatment outcomes. Her work is highly technical but rooted in a clear societal goal: to make treatments more effective and personalized.

In recognition of her academic excellence, Deborah was awarded the prestigious Besancon Scholarship, given annually to a University of Montana graduate student who demonstrates outstanding research potential. For her, the scholarship is not just a financial boost but a validation of her journey and its impact. It enables her to focus more deeply on her research, attend scientific conferences, and collaborate with other experts in the field.

Deborah is also a published author, having contributed a book chapter titled “The Biological Significance of Trogocytosis.” She emphasizes that this phenomenon is central to how the immune system learns, adapts, and sometimes malfunctions. Its relevance spans cancer, autoimmune diseases, and infections, making it a critical area of study for developing targeted therapies.

When asked why two patients with the same type and stage of cancer might respond differently to identical treatments, Deborah points to the complexity of human biology. Genetic differences, immune system variability, lifestyle factors, and even gut microbiota all influence treatment outcomes.

Tumor heterogeneity further complicates the picture, as cancer cells can evolve differently within the same patient. This underscores the importance of personalized medicine, which tailors treatment to an individual’s unique biological profile.

Deborah also advocates for greater emphasis on cancer prevention, noting that lifestyle choices, such as avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular exercise, play a significant role in reducing risk. She acknowledges that prevention often receives less attention than cure because its success is harder to measure and less visible in public discourse.

Reflecting on her experiences in both Nigeria and the U.S., Deborah offers thoughtful advice to Nigerian health stakeholders. She calls for stronger investment in translational research, improved infrastructure, consistent funding, mentorship programs, and international collaborations. She believes that with the right support, Nigerian scientists can develop homegrown solutions rather than relying solely on imported ones.

To those living with cancer, Deborah offers a message of hope. She emphasizes that scientific progress is accelerating, especially in immunotherapy, and that emotional and mental well-being are just as important as medical treatment. She envisions a future where cancer is no longer a death sentence and believes that the momentum toward that future is real and growing.

Outside the lab, Deborah finds balance through faith, family, and volunteering. She participates in “Letters to a Pre-Scientist,” a pen-pal program that connects STEM professionals with middle school students to inspire curiosity and learning. She also finds solace in Montana’s natural beauty, which offers a peaceful counterpoint to the rigors of research.

Looking ahead, Deborah hopes to continue working in translational immunology, particularly in cancer immunotherapy. She envisions herself leading a research team or joining an organization that blends science, education, and advocacy. 

Deborah's ultimate goal is to make advanced therapies accessible to underserved communities, including those in Nigeria. For Deborah, science is not just a career, it’s a calling rooted in the desire to make a meaningful difference.