A PROFESSOR in pharmacy at the University of Hertfordshire is on course to win an award honouring her successful career.

Soraya Dhillon, who juggles her demanding academic career as head of the School of Pharmacy with reponsibilities as the chairman of the Luton and Dunstable Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, has been shortlisted for the Public Sector Award in The Asian Women of Achievement Awards 2008.

Just last year Professor Dhillon celebrated being made an MBE for her services to healthcare and now her academic achievements are being recognised with the award celebrating the success of Asian women within senior roles in the civil service, quangos, universities and other UK national institutions.

Professor Dhillon began her long-standing career at the University of London's School of Pharmacy in 1989, before her gradual ascent up the career ladder to her current position.

Since her appointment in 2004 she has developed the university's pharmacy school into a leading UK facility.

She said: "I am very pleased to be nominated for this exciting award which recognises the achievements of many British Asian women from all walks of life."

The awards, which celebrates the achievement of Asian Women in the UK, will take place at the London Hilton in Park Lane on Tuesday, May 20.