Seven new UWI professors tackle pressing Caribbean challenges

The University of the West Indies (UWI) has named seven new professors whose work spans climate resilience, cancer care, blood safety, and the cultural life of the Hispanic Caribbean. The appointments, effective June 10, 2026, were announced last Friday from the UWI Regional Headquarters in Jamaica.

The promotions recognise some of the region’s most accomplished scholars in science, medicine and the humanities. Their research addresses urgent issues facing Caribbean societies, from disaster risk and non‑communicable diseases to antimicrobial resistance and the need for stronger diagnostic capacity against infectious illnesses.

Among the new professors is Nekeisha Spencer of the Mona Campus, whose work in economics and the environment focuses on disaster risk and climate resilience. Also at Mona, Novie Younger‑Coleman has been elevated to professor of biostatistics, contributing to the fight against chronic disease through advanced data analysis.

At the St Augustine Campus, Kenneth Sterling Charles was named professor of haematology and blood transfusion, recognised for his research into the security of the local blood supply. Ravi Maharaj, professor of oncological surgery, has been instrumental in enhancing cancer care and training future Caribbean surgeons.

Shamin Renwick, professor of information literacy and management, has worked to improve access to knowledge for farmers and underserved communities. Nicole Roberts, professor of Hispanic studies, has highlighted the literary and cultural life of the Spanish‑speaking Caribbean, ensuring its Black identities are recognised as integral to the region’s narrative. Chandrashekhar Unakal, professor of medical microbiology, has advanced research into antimicrobial resistance and infectious disease diagnostics.

The promotions followed rigorous review by internal and external assessors, who commended the scholars for carefully conducted research and high‑impact regional and international work.

In a statement, UWI said the appointments reflect the university’s commitment to tackling the Caribbean’s most pressing challenges while celebrating its diverse intellectual traditions.