Dr. Maria Karmella L. Apaya is a researcher, educator, and faculty member at West Visayas State University. Specializing in pharmacology, lipidomics, clinical omics, and natural products biochemistry, her academic work focuses on unraveling the therapeutic potential of bioactive compounds and Philippine medicinal plants. Dedicated to nurturing the next generation of scholars and healthcare professionals, she actively mentors chemistry and medical students in scientific research, biochemical analysis, and evidence-based practice.

Her research investigates phytomedicine polypharmacology, oxylipin dynamics, and cellular signaling networks regulating inflammation, metabolic pathways, and targeted cancer therapies. A prolific scholar and inventor, Dr. Apaya has published extensively in internationally recognized, peer-reviewed journals and holds international patents for plant-derived therapeutic formulations. By integrating clinical omics with natural products research, her work bridges molecular biochemistry with practical health innovations, offering science-based insights into holistic health and wellness.