Sheryl Zelenitsky, BSc (Pharm), PharmD

Research summary

Dr. Zelenitsky leads a collaborative research program focused on optimizing antimicrobial use for both the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases. Using specialized methodologies, such as population pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) modeling and predictive analytics like Monte Carlo simulations, she translates research findings into clinical applications that improve patient care.

The research focuses on complex and often difficult-to-treat infections such as those involving the lungs, peritoneal cavity, deep skin structure and bloodstream. The work is particularly relevant to high-risk populations, including the immunocompromised, critically ill and those undergoing dialysis or surgery.

Dr. Zelenitsky's goal is to develop evidence-based strategies that enhance the safe and effective use of antibiotics while mitigating the risk of antimicrobial resistance. She has published extensively in this field, with research referenced in international guidelines, shaping best practices in areas such as surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis and infections in patients undergoing renal replacement therapy. She has been recognized on the Clarivate List of Highly Cited Researchers (top 0.1%) in the field of Pharmacology and Toxicology from 2021 through 2024.

Research themes

Translational pharmacotherapy and practice

Research affiliations

Antibiotic utilization specialist, St. Boniface Hospital department of pharmacy

Keywords

• Antibiotic resistance
• Antimicrobial pharmacotherapy
• Infectious diseases
• Monte Carlo modelling
• Pharmacodynamics
• Pharmacokinetics

In addition to her contributions to teaching and research, Dr. Zelenitsky has held numerous leadership roles in academic, professional and clinical settings. 

Her administrative service at the university includes associate dean academic (2004-2011), interim associate dean research (2004, 2018), interim dean (2006), member of the University Discipline Committee (2009-2024) and chair (2021-2024), inaugural chair of the Program Evaluation Committee (2011-2017) and chair of the Graduate Program (2018-2021). 

Professionally, Dr. Zelenitsky maintains an active pharmacy license with the College of Pharmacists of Manitoba and serves as antibiotic utilization specialist in the Department of Pharmacy at St. Boniface Hospital. She is a member of numerous professional associations and served as board chair of the Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists (CSHP) Foundation (2020-2021). 

In 2020, she was appointed to the Antimicrobial Resistance Commission of the International Pharmaceutical Federation. This 14-member panel supported the pharmacy profession's global efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance, with a focus on education, policy, public health, vaccinations and medication safety.

Education

Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), State University of New York at Buffalo (1991)

Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy (B.Sc. (Pharm)), University of Manitoba (1989)

Awards

Award for Excellence in Research or Innovation in Assessment of Competence, Associations of Faculties of Pharmacy of Canada and Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (2018)

Award of Excellence, Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists Manitoba Branch (2018)

Dr. and Mrs. G. G. Saunderson Award for Excellence in Teaching, University of Manitoba (2017)

Preceptor of the Year Award in the Doctor of Pharmacy Program, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia (2010)