Coppin State Professor Wins Award for Advances in Research

Dr. Hany F. Sobhi, professor in Coppin State University’s School of Arts & Science and Education is one of four University System of Maryland (USM) faculty members awarded the 2016 Wilson H. Elkins Professorship.

Dr. Sobhi, associate professor of organic chemistry received the Elkins professorship for his contribution to develop biomarkers that help to diagnose inherited metabolic disease as well as his commitment to “thoroughly engage undergraduate students in related applied research projects.”

Established in 1978, the Elkins Professorship “supports professors and researchers who demonstrate exemplary ability to inspire students and whose professional work and scholarly endeavors make a positive impact beyond the USM.”

Dr. Sobhi has taught at the university since 2010 and in 2012 established the Center for Organic Synthesis. That same year, he received a NASA fellowship; Astrobiology Program Minority Institution Research Support.

Dr. Sobhi joins Coppin State professor, Dr. Jamal Uddin who was a two-time Elkins award recipient in 2013 and in 2014.

This news is fantastic, says Dr. Sobhi.

Currently, Dr. Sobhi works closely with six students to perform his research and collaborates with other institutions including University of Alberta, Case Western Reserve and University of Maryland to perform clinical trials.

He hopes recognition from the award and the opening of the new science building will bring additional exposure to the university.

Dr. Sobhi plans to use the $80,000 award amount to support on-going research that includes early detection of rare metabolic disease.