Western Sydney pharmacist recognised in state Awards
Associate Professor Ron Castelino has been nominated as Researcher of the Year for the upcoming 2026 NSW Health Excellence in Allied Health Awards.
Within Western Sydney Local Health District, Ron’s a renal pharmacist at Blacktown Hospital. He also serves as an academic at the University of Sydney’s School of Pharmacy.
Originally from India, Ron now calls Western Sydney home. He completed his Doctor of Philosophy in pharmacy – commonly known as a PhD – in Australia, drawn to Australia by what he describes as “one of the best clinical pharmacy programs in the world.”
In his dual clinician-researcher role, he’s strengthening that reputation through impactful translational research. Translational research is about transferring the findings of the research and applying to clinical practice. At the heart of translational research is the patient and improving their outcomes.
His research centres on medication safety, especially for people with kidney disease. His recent work has tackled under-reporting of adverse drug reactions and promoted quality use of medicines in people with kidney disease. Now, he’s leading research that evaluates community pharmacy–based screening and the optimisation of medicines for kidney disease.
In addition to his research, part of Ron’s time each week is dedicated to being a pharmacist caring for people with kidney disease. Looking after patients benefits his research too, helping to identify gaps and improvement opportunities. In fact, it’s conversations with and the experience of his patients that often inspire future research.
“It’s important that my work has clinical need and a strong focus on improving patient outcomes.”
He said.
Reflecting on the nomination to the statewide awards, Ron said it’s a proud moment.
“It means a lot to be recognised because research is a long process. Projects can take four or five years from when an idea is discussed to when something is published.”
Ron says there are still many unanswered questions to solve and that’s what motivates him.
The statewide award ceremony will take place on Thursday 26 March 2026 at the Art Gallery of NSW. Good luck Ron!