Mr. Alwyn Henriques | Reaction Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award
University of the West Indies, Jamaica
👨🎓Profiles
🎓 Early Academic Pursuits
Alwyn Henriques began his academic journey at Wolmer’s Boys’ School (2009–2013), where he excelled in a broad range of CSEC subjects including English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geography, Information Technology, and Caribbean History. He continued his studies with CAPE Unit 1 courses in Chemistry, Biology, and Physics. His academic path advanced further at the University of the West Indies (2014–2021), where he completed undergraduate studies in Chemistry, reaching Levels 2 and 3, which provided him with a solid foundation in analytical and applied chemistry.
💼 Professional Endeavors
Alwyn has engaged in diverse professional roles that reflect a combination of scientific, technical, and customer service expertise. At the National Health Fund (NHF), he served as a Pharmacy Assistant in June 2018 and 2019, where he introduced and advised on the use of digital solutions like a quick prescription mobile application and self-serve kiosk services. He also assisted in medication packing, gaining practical insight into pharmaceutical distribution. In September 2017, he worked as a Chemistry Lab Technician at the Convent of Mercy (Alpha), where he prepared laboratory apparatus and ensured safety protocols for chemical experiments. His earlier experience at RADA in August 2017 involved organizing agricultural seminar documents as a file clerk.
🔬 Contributions and Research Focus
Alwyn’s most significant research contributions came during his internship at the Scientific Research Council (SRC) in July 2021. There, he explored the chemical transformation and pharmacological behavior of cannabis-derived compounds, focusing on the conversion of cannabidiol (CBD) to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), THC spoilage to cannabinol (CBN), and the redox-based metabolism of these compounds in the body. His research also delved into wastewater chemical analysis, pharmaceutical development processes, cacao bean applications in food and medicine, and cannabis-derived renewable materials—demonstrating a strong orientation toward sustainable and innovative chemistry.
🌍 Impact and Influence
Alwyn’s multidisciplinary career showcases a commitment to socially impactful science. His promotion of digital health services at NHF and exploration of plant-based compounds for pharmaceuticals mark him as a forward-thinking individual attuned to modern healthcare, sustainability, and biotechnology trends. He contributes to Jamaica’s evolving landscape of scientific development, especially in areas of public health innovation and natural product chemistry.
🧠 Technical Skills
Alwyn’s technical skill set includes laboratory preparation of chemicals and apparatus, cannabinoid conversion and pharmacokinetics, wastewater analysis, pharmaceutical formulation, data organization, and customer support systems. His adaptability in both scientific and service-oriented environments illustrates a strong balance of precision, communication, and innovation.
👨🏫 Teaching Experience
Although he has not held a formal teaching post, Alwyn’s role as a lab technician involved active support of educational activities by preparing experiments and maintaining a safe and functional learning environment. This experience has equipped him with the foundational skills for future roles in academic support or technical instruction.
📚 Academic Cites and References
While no formal publications have been cited, Alwyn’s research during his SRC internship likely contributed to internal reports or scientific reviews. His professional references include Norman Biggs, a Justice of the Peace, Adriel Albert-James, a Chemistry Lecturer and Researcher, and Nickeisha Stephenson, a customer service and loan advisor, all of whom can attest to his character and capability across various fields.
🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions
Alwyn Henriques is a promising scientific professional with a unique blend of academic, research, and service-oriented experience. His passion for natural product chemistry, commitment to sustainable innovation, and fluency in digital healthcare solutions set the stage for impactful contributions in the future. As he continues to grow, he is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in the advancement of biomedical science, renewable resources, and public health technologies.
📖Notable Publication
Cannabinoid spoilage, metabolism and cannabidiol (CBD) conversion to Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) mechanisms with energetic parameters
Authors:
Alwyn Henriques
Journal:
Journal of Cannabis Research
Year:
2025