20170328115124wizard_of_science_(chemistry)2.pdf

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

GWENDOLINE CHENG LIAN EE Ph.D. (Universiti Malaya) PROFESSOR DR. Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel (office) : +603-89466798 Fax : +603-89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Biocatalysis, Chemical Biology and Computational Chemistry ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Prof. Dr. Gwendoline Cheng Lian Ee is an expert in Natural Product Chemistry/Organic Chemistry at the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia , UPM Serdang. Her research is on the search for lead compounds from plants, leading to the discovery of potential pesticidal, anti-cancer, anti-bacterial and anti-microbial agents. She has discovered several such compounds from the various plant species studied. These plants were mainly from the Annonaceae, Theaceae and Guttiferae families. Professor Gwendoline Cheng Lian Ee is a prolific author and has published more than 90 journal papers in refereed international cited indexed journals. Major sponsors of her research include IRPA, E-Science Fund, RUGS, FRGS, and Agri Science Fund. CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : Search for lead compounds from Mesua beccariana and Mesua ferea and chemical modifications of major compounds leading to discovery of potential new anticancer drugs. Anti-cancer hit compounds from Calophyllum mucigerum and Calophyllum innophylum and chemical modifications of major compounds ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: ? ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

KHOZIRAH SHAARI Ph.D. (University of Strathclyde) PROFESSOR DR. Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel (office) : 603 89466798 Fax : 603 89435380 EXPERTISE ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

MAHIRAN BASRI Ph.D. (Universiti Putra Malaysia) PROFESSOR DR. Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel (office) : 603 89466798 Fax : 603 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Biocatalysis, Chemical Biology and Computational Chemistry ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Prof. Dr. Mahiran Basri’s research work is in the area of Fats and Oil Chemistry, Biocatalysis and Colloid Chemistry. She has been actively working on the design of enzymes for organic synthesis, synthesis of fats and oils related specialty compounds which have applications in the cosmetics, drugs and pharmaceutical industries. She is also working on the design and development of nanodelivery systems and the formulation of compounds in cosmetics, cosmeceuticals, pharmaceuticals and agriculturals. Latest sponsors of her research are National Biotechnology Directorate (NBD), National Nanotechnology Directorate (NND) and Sciencefund from the Ministry of Science and Innovation of Malaysia (MOSTI) and Commercialisation of Research & Development Fund (CRDF) from Malaysian Technology Development Corporation (MTDC) for the pre-commercialization of palm-based wax esters production using enzyme technology. She owns 15 patents and has authored and co-authored more than 200 publications. CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : • Design and syntheses of biocatalysts in the production of fats and oil-based specialty chemicals for use in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries High value chemicals are used in cosmetics, food, drugs, pharmaceuticals and other chemical industries. The alternative process of using enzymes as catalysts in the production of these compounds has many advantages due to the favourable properties of the enzymes. Research in the design of the biocatalysts and syntheses of specialty chemicals are carried out. • Development and theoretical elucidation of nanodelivery systems for anti-neurodegenarative drugs Diseases of the central nervous system such as meningitis, schizophrenia, migraine, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease require delivery of the drug to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to the brain for treatment. However such transport remains problematic due to the impervious nature of the endothelial membrane separating the systemic circulation and central interstitial fluid. The potential delivery of the nanosystem are investigated experimentally and theoretically using computational techniques. .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Enzyme Technology, Organic Chemistry, Nanotechnology ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: www.emtech.upm.edu.my

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

MANSOR AHMAD Ph.D. (University of Salford) PROFESSOR DR. Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel (office) : ++603 89466798 Fax : ++603 89435380 EXPERTISE ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

MOHD BASYARUDDIN ABDUL RAHMAN, FRSC, FASc Ph.D. (University of Southampton) PROFESSOR DR. Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel (office) : +603-89466798 Fax : +603-89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Biocatalysis, Chemical Biology and Computational Chemistry ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Prof. Dr. Mohd Basyaruddin Abdul Rahman,is currently a Senior Professor of Chemistry. His promotion to Professorship at the age of 36 made him among the youngest in Malaysia. He developed skills in catalysisand synchrotron radiation in Daresbury and Grenoble, protein engineering at Osaka University and structural biology at the University of Edinburgh. Dr. Mohd Basyaruddin is among the pioneer chemists in this country to synergise experimental results with theoretical insights. He won the Young Scientist recognition from various bodies including ACS, IUPAC and IAP. He has secured more than RM 15 million to conduct research, published > 200 technical papers, > 300 proceedings and > 20 patents. He has supervised and co-supervised more than 40 PhD and 40 MSc postgraduate students. He also actively involved in many schools and community outreach activities. He is the Founding Chairman of the Young Scientists Network and a Fellow of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia. CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : His research interest encompasses a broad area from chemistry to structural biology involving biocatalysis and molecular simulation. • Aerosolized Nanoemulsions for Pulmonary Drug Delivery Development of palm-based nanoaerosol and nanomagnetosol for smoking related diseases especially lung and oral cancer via pulmonary delivery. • Metallopeptide Catalysts for Green Organic Reactions Rational design and modification of peptides based on enzyme active site s(enzyme mimics) for asymmetric aldol and oxidation reactions, and antimicrobial agents. • Antifreeze Peptides Design, synthesis and simulation of a-helix antifreeze peptides based on genomics data from Antarctic Inhabitants (Glaciozyma antarctica Yeast and Shorthorn Sculpin Fish). Further research on cryopreservation of skin grafts and kidney cell s and also in frozen food applications are being investigated. • Solvent Engineering for Biotechnology Applications Rational design and molecular simulation study of room temperature ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents for biocatalysis and DNA molecular solvation. ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Enzyme Technology, Organic Chemistry, Theoretical and Computational Chemistry ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: www.emtech.upm.edu.my

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

NOR AZAH YUSOF Ph.D. (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia) PROFESSOR DR. Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 89466782 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE: ?? ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Prof. Dr, Nor Azah Yusof, who was born on October 24, 1973 is a leading young academic and is well-known for her impressive achievements in various academic branches. She began her career as a research assistant at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia and subsequently became a lecturer in Universiti Putra Malaysia in 2002 after completing her PhD. Her research has resulted in 123 journal articles and 63 conference articles. Of this amount, 75% was as a main author and communicator. 40% of the journals are in the Q1 and Q2. Her articles have been cited 500 times by international researchers, including leading researchers in her field. Her expertise in the field of sensor technology allowed her to be elected as the auditor of articles by various international journals. She has 10 national and international patents. As a result of her achievements, she was appointed as a professor at the age of 39 years. She is also the recipient of several research grants totalling almost MYR 10 million from various national and international sources. CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : She started working on optical chemical sensors for toxic metal detection. She further developed her expertise on electrochemical based biosensors. She has been working on DNA based biosensors and protein based biosensors for 5 years. Further information can be obtained from our group website www.upmbiosensor.com. She wishes to further develop her electrochemical reader and biochip that she has started working on for 5 years into a prototype and subsequent commercialization. She is seeking partners to develop together the technology into a suitable kit and fto urther commercialize the diagnostic kit for home use. She is also working on molecular imprinted polymers and is currently working with some industrial partners to develop sorbents to remove contaminants from water. .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Analytical Chemistry, Material Chemistry, Sensor Technology ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: www.upmbiosensor.com

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

TAUFIQ YAP YUN HIN Ph.D. (University of Manchester) PROFESSOR DR. Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel (office) : +603-89466798 Fax : +603-89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Biocatalysis, Chemical Biology and Computational Chemistry ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Prof. Dr. Taufiq Yap currently is the Coordinator for the Centre of Excellence for Catalysis Science and Technology (PutraCAT). His research interests include selective oxidation catalysis, development of heterogeneous catalysts for biodiesel production, dry reforming of methane and biomass conversion to syngas and biooil. He has authored and co-authored a total of 131 articles in various international and national refereed journals and filed three patents. He is currently a member of the Editorial Board for Catalysis Survey from Asia and Bulletin of Catalysis Society of India, and the International Advisory Board for the Bulletin of Chemical Reaction and Catalysis. Professor Taufiq Yap was awarded a Fellowship (FRSC) of The Royal Society of Chemistry, United Kingdom in 2008 and was recently awarded a Fellowship (FMIC) of the Malaysian Institute of Chemistry (2009). He is currently a committee member of the Asia Pacific Association of Catalysis Societies (APACS). CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : • Modification of Vanadium Phosphate Catalyst for n-Butane and Propane Oxidation to Oxygenated Products. • • Biomass Conversion of Empty Fruit Bunch to Syngas and Bio-Oil. IInvestigation on Reactivity of Oxygen Species and the Mechanism for Partial Oxidation of n-Butane. • • Development of Solid Heterogeneous Catalysts for Higher Grade Biodiesel. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: ? ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

ZULKARNAIN ZAINAL Ph.D. (University of Manchester) PROFESSOR DR. Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel: 03 89466809 Fax: 03-89466758/03 89435380 EXPERTISE ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

ABDUL HALIM ABDULLAH Ph.D. (University of Dundee) ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DR. Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 89466603/6777 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Photocatalysis, nanochemistry ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Associate Professor Dr. Abdul Halim Abdullah’s major research areas involve the synthesis, characterization and utilization of nanomaterials for environmental catalysis. The work involves synthesizing nanosize zinc oxide via various methods of preparation, modifying the metal oxide through doping and hybridizing the zinc oxide with other metal oxides and characterizing the resulting catalysts. The synthesized catalysts were applied for photodegradation of various organic pollutants such as dyes, pesticides and phenolic compounds from aqueous solution to produce harmless by-products. The focus of his work has included treating industrial wastewater samples. He has authored and co-authored more than 40 technical papers. Major sponsors of his research include the Science Fund (Ministry of Science and Innovation of Malaysia (MOSTI), Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) and Research University Grant Scheme (RUGS). CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : • Photodegradation of organic pollutants by visible light driven photocatalysts. Photodegradation of organic pollutants by visible light driven photocatalysts has been of current interest in an a tempt to make use of solar radiation as the light source. Our current work involves synthesizing ZnO based photocatalysts via simple chemical processes. The ZnO based catalysts prepared include ZnO/CNT, ZnO/graphene oxide and ZnO/ Ag3PO4 photocatalysts. The photocatalytic activity of resulting catalysts were evaluated by photodegrading dyes as the model pollutant. Wastewater effluent from the textile industry was also used to determine the efficiency of the photocatalyst to photodegrade real wastewater. Preparation of thin film photocatalysts is also attempted by immobilizing the photoactive catalyst on a polymer matrix. The performance of the thin film photocatalyst is targeted to be at least on par with that of the powdered catalyst in the photodegradation of organic pollutants ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: ? ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

JANET LIM HONG NGEE Ph.D. (Universiti Putra Malaysia) ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DR. Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 89467494 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Synthesis, Electrochemical Sensors ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Associate Professor Dr. Janet Lim Hong Ngee focuses on the synthesis of advanced functional materials for various applications such as energy storage, solar conversion and sensing. Her current interest in graphene, a two-dimensional sp2-carbon hybrid, has resulted in promising research outputs including outstanding capacitance values for supercapacitors, platinum-free dye-sensitized solar cells and highly selective sensors. There is also a merger of devices to materialize single multifunctional devices like photosupercapacitors and photo-electrochemical sensors. She has authored and co-authored more than 130 ISI -cited journal articles. Her research is sponsored by international and national fund providers. CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS: • Graphene Graphene is able to enhance the chemical, electrical and mechanical properties of devices owing to its high electron mobility, flexibility, durability and ease of functionalization. The derivatives of graphene encompass inorganic and organic graphenous materials. • Supercapacitors Modification of electrode materials is a vital factor that influences charge storage and delivery. The synthesized nanomaterials are subjected to electrochemical measurements to analyse their performance for real applications. • Sensors The synthesis of sensing materials is an exciting field that employs various approaches, resulting in a myriad of morphological structures. • Multifunctional devices A photo-supercapacitor is able to convert, store and deliver electrical energy in a single device. Meanwhile, a photo-electrochemical sensor exhibits excellent ability to detect analytes under the illumination of light. Materials science and engineering play a vital role in ensuring the maximum conversion, storage and delivery of electrical energy in a photo-supercapacitor, and the manifestation of photocurrent in a photo-electrochemical sensor. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Nanotechnology, Materials Science, Electrochemistry ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

INTAN SAFINAR ISMAIL Ph.D. (Okayama University) ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DR. Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 89467492 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Natural Products, Organic Synthesis, Metabolomics ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Associate. Professor. Dr. Intan Safinar Ismail is a Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry, UPM. She is also a research associate of the Laboratory of Natural Products, Institute of Bioscience, UPM since 2005. She is a reductionist in seeking bioactive natural products specifically from the plants of Meliaceae family, and a metabolomist in understanding the system biology of the selected traditional medicinal plants. She is a member of American Chemical Society (ACS), Japanese Pharmaceuticals Society (JPS), and a member of the editorial board for Asian Coordinating Group for Chemistry, Chemical Research Communications (ACGC-CRC). Major sponsors of Intan’s research include the ScienceFund (Ministry of Science and Innovation of Malaysia (MOSTI)), Research University Grant Scheme (RUGS) and Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS). Some of her research work collaboration parties are Hoshi University and Okayama University, Japan. CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : • Natural Product Chemistry History has proved mankind has always been interested in naturally occurring compounds from various organisms. Using the rapid and impressive development of organic chemistry due to the advancement in isolation and identification techniques of chromatographic and spectroscopic methods, respectively, our works cover the identification of potential lead compounds for novel pharmaceuticals/neutraceuticals. • Reduction/Ichthyotoxicity Meliaceae family has been the source of various kinds of compounds ranging from polar to non-polar entities. The isolation of some new and novel compounds particularly those of triterpenoid, limonoid and chromone alkaloid group have been reported. Ichthyotoxic compounds have been proven to possess other activities such as anti-viral, anti-microbial and anti-tumor properties. • Metabolomics Metabolomics is a new tool in understanding the system biology of organisms. It is the latest addition in the ‘omics’ family which include genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics. • Structure modifications In collaboration with a synthetic chemist, the active natural compounds are submitted for structural modifications, which are based on the compound structure and existence of functional groups. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: ? ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

IRMAWATI RAMLI Ph.D. (University of Manchester) ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DR. Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 8946 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Catalysis, Advanced Materials, Nanotechnology ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Associate. Professor. Dr. Irmawati Ramli obtained her PhD from University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology, England in 1999. She started her profession at Universiti Putra Malysia in 2000 as a lecturer. She was later promoted to Associate Professor in 2005. She has held different positions in UPM. She was the former Deputy Director of the Promotional Division, a section under the Research Management Centre, UPM from 2007 to 2009 and currently holds the post as the Head of Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science since October 2014. Dr. Irmawati was the Director of the National Science Centre (NSC), Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation from 2009 until 2014. During her tenure at the NSC she was responsible for the enculturation of science among the Malaysian public and has been responsible for the fun science programs nationwide. Dr. Irmawati has more than 60 publications in areas of metal oxides, oxidation catalysis, and advanced materials, 9 patents and 1 trademark. CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : • Design and Synthesis of Catalysts Developing design and synthesis of catalytic materials with desired functions for chemical processes. • Catalytic Process Conversion of propane into acrylic acid, and waste cooking oil and palm oil into biodiesel with high efficiency through catalytic pathways. • CNT and Graphenated CNT Production of high quality CNT and graphenated CNT from waste oils using chemical vapour deposition methods. • Polymer Nanocomposites Preparation of polymer nanocomposites using renewable resources and their multiple industrial applications. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Catalysis, Advanced Materials, Nanotechnology ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

NORAZOWA IBRAHIM Ph.D. (Univerisiti Putra Malaysia) ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DR. Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 89466802 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Biocomposites, Nancomposites, Polymers ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Associate Professor. Dr. Nor Azowa Ibrahim is a senior lecturer at the Chemistry Department, UPM. She is currently the program manager of biocomposite material at the Institute of Tropical Forestry and Forest Product, (INTROP), UPM. Her major research areas include preparation and characterization of natural fiber reinforced composites using both biodegradable and non biodegradable matrix, improvement of fiber matrix interaction as well as polymer blends. She also involved in the preparation of nanocomposites using nano clay and nano silver. She has contributed more than 20 technical papers and two chapters in the Research on Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites book. Her research group has been sponsored by the ScienceFund (Ministry of Science and Innovation of Malaysia (MOSTI), Research University Grant Scheme (RUGS) and Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS). CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : • Natural fiber Reinforced Composites Due to the environmental problems caused by plastics, many efforts have been put to prepare biodegradable materials with properties similar to non degradable polymers. We focus on the fiber matrix interaction in order to improve the mechanical properties of the material. Several techniques have been used including fiber treatment, fiber modification by grafting with vinyl monomer, addition of crosslinker, plasticiser and stabilizer. This is because natural fiber is hydrophilic and the polymer matrix is hydrophobic thus is unable to produce material with good properties. • Nanocomposites Addition of small amounts of nano clay can improve the mechanical and thermal properties. At the same time nano clay can acts as compatibiliser for polymer blends. This is practically important to produce new high end materials from biodegradable polymers. Our group also focuses on the preparation of nano silver to be used as fillers in biodegradable polymer. Nano silver is known to have antibacterial activity, thus addition of nanosilver in biodegradable polymers may produce biodegradable materials suitable for food packaging. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: ? ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

TAN KAR BAN Ph.D. (Univerisiti Putra Malaysia) ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DR. Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 89467491 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Material Chemistry, Electroceramics ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Kar Ban Tan is currently an associate professor at the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia. He graduated with a first class degree in B.Sc. (Hons)-Industrial Chemistry and then obtained his Ph.D- Materials Chemistry, UPM. Dr. Tan also contributes his expertise as a referee for manymJournals of international repute and other scholarly activities through his engagements in conferences/ workshops and Science outreach programmes. He is also the chair of Science Outreach flagship programme (YSN-ASM), associate member (AMIC, IKM), members of American Chemical Society (ACS) and Malaysian Solid State Science and Technology (MASS). To date, he guides more than 15 postgraduates under his main or co-supervision. CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS: Dr. Tan’s research interests encompass on the synthesis and characterisation of functional electroceramics using a variety of techniques including X-ray powder diffraction, electron microscopy, laser Raman spectroscopy, thermal analysis, ac impedance spectroscopy and physical property measurements. The employment of these state-of-art techniques is imperative as to perform a systematic study on these materials, particularly due to their structural and compositional complexity and understanding of the correlation between their physical, structural and electrical properties. Dr. Tan has spearheaded and collaborated research projects with various parties through financial supports from Research University Grant Scheme (RUGS), Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) and Science fund, MOSTI. He has published more than 90 papers in conference proceedings, workshops and international peer reviewed and citation-indexed journals. Specific research areas: Electroceramics for electrical applications including dielectric, semiconductor, superconductor and ionic conductor, supercapacitor etc. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Material Science ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: • Material Science (http://www.sgs.upm.edu.my/sp/page/3125/materialscience_bi) • ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Kar_Ban_Tan) • Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=7FkrBv0AAAAJ&hl=en) • Young Scientists Network– Academy of Sciences Malaysia (http://ysn-asm.org.my/index.php/about-us/ysnmembers)

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

EMILIA ABD MALEK D.Phil. (University of Oxford) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr.) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 89466775/6795 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Organic Synthesis ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Emilia Abd Malek’s major research area is in the field of synthetic organic chemistry. Currently, she is concentrating on the use of enzymes as catalyst in organic synthesis such as the use of lipase in esterification and epoxidation. In esterification, the method is used to synthesize sugar esters, biodegradable surfactants, and the reaction is also carried out in ionic liquids. We are trying to achieve a green process in using biocatalysts and minimize the use of volatile organic solvents. CURRENT RESEARCH INTEREST : • Synthesis of fatty acid sugar ester via enzymatic catalysis Fatty acid sugar esters remain an important class of surfactant due to their versatility, excellent wetting properties and biodegradability. The esters are tasteless, non-toxic and non-irritant, making them suitable for applications in the food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics industries. The lipase-catalyzed route towards the sugar ester has become more preferable than the conventional chemical method due to the ease of operation, mild conditions and above all, excellent regioselectivity. Our work focused on enzymatic esterification of various monosacharides with palm oil derived fatty acids such as oleic acid. • Chemo-enzymatic epoxidation of alkenes Enzyme mediated epoxidation has emerged as a useful and green alternative method to oxidize alkenes, especially renewable unsaturated plant-based fatty acids. Lipases have been used to catalyse the formation of the peroxy acid (the oxidant) from carboxylic acid and hydrogen peroxide. Although this method has been used to epoxidize oil for example, soya oil and palm oil, the utilization of the method on small alkene is rare. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: ? ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

ERNEE NORYANA MUHAMAD Ph.D. (Hokkaido University) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr) . Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 894671444 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Catalysis, Green chemistry, biodiesels ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Ernee Noryana Muhamad is a lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, UPM. She is also one of the principal researchers at the Centre of Excellence for Catalysis Science and Technology (PutraCAT). Her research interest is primarily focused on catalysis for green chemistry especially for fuel cells application and biodiesel. Her research work is sponsored by Research University Grant Scheme (RUGS). CURRENT RESEARCH INTEREST : • Heterogeneous catalysts for biodiesel production Research is focused on production of biodiesel from edible and non edible oil whereby the biomass waste materials are used as solid heterogeneous catalysts. Modifications on catalysts properties and reaction parameters are made in order to increase the catalytic activity and the biodiesel production. • Current Research Interest: Research work focuses on development of a highly CO-tolerant electrocatalyst for PEM fuel cell application. The electrochemical properties and performance of metal oxide added anode catalysts based on platinum and non-platinum metal will be evaluated in single PEM fuel cell in the presence of COcontaminated H2 fuel. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: ? ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

HASLINA AHMAD Ph.D. (University of Sheffield) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 89467486 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Inorganic Synthesis, Liquid Crystals, DNA-binding complexes ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Haslina Ahmad’s research focuses on the self-assembly of kinetically locked metallomacrocycles as hosts and sensors for biomolecules such as ATP, GTP, uridine, adenine, cGMP and also DNA. CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS: • Luminescence Liquid Crystals based on Ruthenium(II)-containing Metallomesogens Liquid crystals are fascinating materials with properties intermediate between those of solids and liquids. A versatile class of molecular materials, the class of metallomesogens, is obtained by incorporation of metals into liquid crystals. The interest in the synthesis of metallomesogens has increased enormously during the past few years. The new features of this kind of material combine the optical and electrical properties of conventional liquid crystals with the magnetic and electronic properties of transition metal complexes. • Biophysical and Biochemical Characterization of the DNA Interactions of Cytotoxic Ruthenium(II)- Intercalating Agents Apart from inorganic liquid crystals, our group also works on biophysical and biochemical characterization of DNA binding agents. Chemotherapy with Pt complexes is one of the main pillars in the treatment of cancer today. However, their use is limited by the high toxicity and some tumors are resistant towards the drug. For these reasons, the need for an alternative anticancer drug has been initiated. The rutheniumbased complexes have been proposed to possess potential antitumor activity and antimetastatic behaviour, showing lower systemic toxicity than platinum compounds. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: ? ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

JAAFAR ABDULLAH Ph.D. (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-office: 03 89466980 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Nanomaterials, sensor technology ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Jaafar Abdullah is currently a senior lecturer at Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia. His major research areas include the use of functionalized nanomaterials such as nanocrystals semiconductor quantum dots, graphene quantum dots, graphene oxide, nanocrystalline cellulose for sensing applications. He has authored and co-authored more than 20 journal articles. He has received numerous awards for his research work. He has 8 patents pending which include application of enzyme-quantum dots hybrid system for the detection of uric acid, biosensor for the determination of dissolved ammonia and ammonium ions, detection system for phenolic compounds detection, and biosensor for phenols. Major sponsors of his research include MOSTI (Science fund, Flagship DSTIN grant, Special grant, NND grant) and MOHE (FRGS). CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : • Point of care based sensors Point-of-care testing is the systems that implementing diagnosis and prognosis test near to the patient which can improve patient care through real-time and remote health monitoring. Biosensors have played a major role in the move towards simplified testing, including home-use devices. This work involves the utilization of functionalized nanoparticles and the development of non-invasive based sensor for healthcare monitoring. • Functionalized nanoparticles The basic applications of surface functionalization range from altering the wetting or adhesion characteristics and improving the nanoparticles dispersion in matrices to enhance the properties and ordering the interfacial region. The creation of specific surface sites on nanoparticles for selective molecular attachment is considered a promising approach for their applications in nanofabrication, nanopatterning, self-assembly, nanosensors, bioprobes, etc. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: ? ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

MOHAMED IBRAHIM MOHAMED TAHIR D.Phil. (University of Oxford) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-office: 03 89467489 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Inorganic Synthesis, Crystallography ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Mohamed Tahir’s main research interest lies in coordination chemistry which includes the synthesis, characterisation and biological studies of novel compounds. Single crystal X-ray diffraction is the main tool for determining the structures of these complexes. Coordination compounds of particular interest are those that show biological activities such as anti-cancer, anti-microbial or antioxidant activity. These metal complexes are also investigated for their potential as homogeneous catalysts. An important goal is to determine the structure-activity relationship of these compounds using suitable computational studies. Major funding agencies include MOSTI , MOHE (FRGS) and UPM (RUGS). He is a member of the American Chemical Society (ACS), British Crystallographic Association (BCA) and Malaysian Crystallographic Association (MyCA). CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS: The synthesis, characterisation and biological studies of Schiff base related compounds and its metal complexes. These compounds are have a broad range of biological activity such as anti-cancer, antimicrobial and anti-viral. The metals used are transition elements as these metal complexes give a wide range of coordination numbers, accessible redox potentials and variable structures. The structure-reactivity relationship of the metal complexes is also explored using computer aided simulation. These metal complexes are also being studied for their homogeneous catalytic properties for a variety of organic reactions. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Inorganic Synthesis ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: http://profile.upm.edu.my/ibra

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

MOHD HANIFF WAHID Ph.D. (Flinders University) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr.) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel (office): +603 89466784 Fax: +60389435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Nanocomposites ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Mohd Haniff’s research interest is in the synthesis of two dimensional layered nanomaterials, such as graphene, boron nitride and molybdenum disulphide and their composites in order to generate functional nanomaterials. Dr. Haniff obtained his bachelor degree in the field of Materials Science and Engineering from Toyohashi University of Technology in Japan and then pursued his master degree at Universiti Putra Malaysia specializing in Materials Chemistry. He completed his Ph.D study at Flinders University in Adelaide, South Australia and his PhD research was about the synthesis of graphene composite functional nanomaterials using mechanoenergy. CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : To utilize the special properties of atomic layers of graphite (graphene) and its composites for adsorption of harmful substances in wastewater. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Graphene nanocomposites ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

MOHD FARID B. ISMAIL Ph.D. (University of Oklahoma) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-office: 03 89466778 Fax: 03 89432508 [email protected] EXPERTISE Computational Chemistry, Polymers ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Farid’s main research interest spans the area of physical and organic chemistry, and includes computational and laboratory work. His main subject of study are organic polymers and polymeric materials including their oligomers and small molecule analogs. Dr. Farid is interested in studying fundamental aspects of the material properties such as the relationship between dielectric constant, viscosity, and diffusion coefficient to the molecular structure of the materials. He utilizes tools such as quantum calculations, molecular dynamics simulations, multi-step organic synthesis, polymer synthesis, and various property measurements to help with his studies.. Currently Dr. Farid’s research sponsor is the IPM grant scheme from UPM (formerly known as the Research University Grant Scheme (RUGS). CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS: • The relationship between ionic conductivity and the structure of liquid electrolytes Various theories to describe ionic conductivity in liquid electrolytes failed to describe the phenomenon across all types of electrolyte. The reason for the failure is the lack of understanding of the molecular factors controlling the phenomenon. This study aims to determine the structural properties of electrolyte molecules that control ions conduction in the electrolyte molecules. The study employs molecular dynamics simulations and quantum chemical calculations of various organic liquids and oligomers. • The extraction of impurities in raw petroleum using ionic liquid In this study, model oils tainted with small molecule impurities (sulfur compound, carboxylic acid analogs, metal compounds) are mixed with ionic liquids to determine the effect of various cation and anion types to determine the extraction efficiency. Molecular dynamic simulations are employed to determine the molecular level mechanism/ interaction between the cation and the anion with the impurities. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Theoretical and Computational Chemistry, Molecular Science, Organic Chemistry, Ionic Liquids ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: http://profile.upm.edu.my/mohd_farid/profail.html

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

MOHD IZHAM SAIMAN Ph.D. (University of Cardiff) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 89467238 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Catalysis, nanochemistry ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr Mohd Izham bin Saiman, a senior lecturer received his PhD in heterogeneous catalysis from Cardiff University (United Kingdom) under supervision of Prof. Graham Hutchings. During his PhD, he worked on old nanoparticles catalyst for the selective oxidation of hydrocarbons. His findings on gold-palladium supported catalysts for solvent free oxidation of toluene have been published in high impact factor journals. He is also one of the principal researchers at the Centre of Excellence for Catalysis Science and Technology (PutraCAT), Universiti Putra Malaysia. CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : The study of gold nanocrystals as novel active heterogeneous catalysts and their characterisation Heterogeneous catalyst for biodiesel production. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: ? ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

NUR KARTINEE KASSIM Ph.D. (Universiti Putra Malaysia) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr.) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 89466803 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Structural elucidation, antioxidant ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Nur Kartinee’s research focuses on natural product chemistry. She is working on local medicinal plants including Rutaceae, Zingiberaceae, Asteraceae and Meliaceae families. Dr. Nur Kartinee’s major research areas is searching for novel natural bioactive compounds from plants as antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic and antimicrobial agents. This research combines the biological assays expertise from other disciplines such as Medical and Allied Health, Microbiology and Food Science. The plant extracts which pass screening selection criteria are then fractionated to isolate and determine the structures of the active compounds. The structural elucidation is based on spectroscopic analysis ie Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Mass spectra(MS), Infrared (IR). Isolated compounds will be evaluated for specific biological activities and the most promising leads will then be selected to elucidate their mode of action by in silico evaluation. The active compounds can also be used as marker compounds in preparation of standardized extracts. Major sponsors of her research include Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) and Putra Grant. CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS: • Natural antimicrobial agents from plants Secondary metabolites from medicinal plants have already known as a useful source of antimicrobial agents. They are considered as safe and can be a promising solution for antimicrobial resistance. This study is aiming to provide fundamental knowledge on potential of selected local medicinal plants and their isolated compounds as potential antimicrobial agents against pathogenic bacteria. A bioassay guided technique is conducted to identify bioactive compounds as marker compounds for preparation of standardized extract or as pharmacological tools for future studies. The isolated bioactive compounds will be characterized using various spectroscopy methods. • Isolation and identification of plant secondary metabolites for in vitro antioxidant and anticancer/cytotoxicity studies. The purpose of the study is investigate the antioxidant and anticancer activity of the plant secondary metabolites particularly triterpenes, coumarins and flavonoid derivatives. The isolation and purification of bioactive constituents from plants materials are carried out using various chromatographic methods. The antioxidant capacity of the extracts/pure compounds will be determined based on DPPH, ORAC, CUPRAC, FRAP, ABTS and Beta carotene bleaching methods. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5- diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay will be used for cytotoxicity screening on panel of human cancer cell lines including ovarian cancer (Caov-3), lung adenocarcinoma epithelial (A549), colorectal adenocarcinoma (HT-29), hormone-dependent breast cancer (MCF-7) and hormone-independent breast cancer (MDAMB-231). ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Natural product chemistry, Material Science, Organic Chemistry ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

RUZNIZA MOHD ZAWAWI Ph.D. (Durham University) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr.) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-office: 03 89471445 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Electrochemistry, Sensor technology ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Ruzniza’s research areas involve development and application of electrochemical sensors for detecting chiral molecules of importance in medical, pharmaceutical and environmental monitoring. This entails coupling nanomaterials and molecular or biomolecular recognition involving host-guest type interactions to electrical transducers that will generate a signal that is proportional to the target analyte concentration. The chiral recognition can be obtained with or without the presence of chiral selector, depending on the target analyte enantiomers. Major sponsors of Dr. Ruzniza’s research include the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) and Putra Grant. CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS: • Chiral Sensors. Chiral recognition and discrimination between enantiomers are becoming increasingly important for future technology because most important chiral substances are bio-related molecules and their sensing properties contribute to pharmacy and biotechnology industries. The necessity for differentiation of very slight differences in molecular structure is very interesting to discover using an ‘intelligent’ chiral sensor to assure a highly sensitive, enantioselective analysis of various biological systems. • Nanocomposite Hybrid Materials. The integration of nanomaterials such as graphene, carbon nanotubes and other metal nanotubes, nanowires, nanoparticles, nanosheets and nanorods with biomolecules such as enzymes and collagen, as well as polymers, organic-inorganic nanohybrids and various mesoporous materials, will lead to nanocomposite hybrid materials that combine the properties of the two components and yield materials of new functionalities. This leads to better electrocatalytic activity of the sensoric device to differentiate chiral compounds in a racemic mixture. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Analytical chemistry, Material Sciences, Sensor Technology ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

SAZLINDA KAMARUZAMAN Ph.D. (Universiti Teknologi Malaysia) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr.) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 89466805 Fax: 03 89435380 Email:[email protected] EXPERTISE ? ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Sazlinda Kamaruzaman received her PhD in analytical chemistry from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in the year of 2014 under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Mohd Marsin Sanagi. Her current research interests are towards the preparation and characterization of inorganic and polymer adsorbents and their application in microextraction techniques. She is also interested in separation of organic pollutants in environmental and biological samples by using chromatography techniques. Currently, she is also involved in studying trace metal analysis by utilizing biodegradable adsorbent.s Major sponsor of Dr. Sazlinda’s works are the IPM grant scheme from UPM (formerly known as the Research University Grant Scheme (RUGS) and Fundamental Research Grant Scheme from MOHE. CURRENT RESEARCH INTEREST : • Sample Preparation In-house microextraction techniques for the extraction of organic pollutants and heavy metals. (Micro solid phase extraction, dispersive solid phase extraction, dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction). • Chromatography Determination of organic pollutants by using microextraction techniques and coupling with chromatography techniques. Separation of organic pollutants by using gas-chromatography (GC) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). • 3) Environmental Chemistry (Trace metal analysis) Synthesis and characterization of biodegradable adsorbent for removal of heavy metals in environmental samples. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Analytical Chemistry, Separation, Chromatography, Sample Preparation, Environmental Chemistry ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

SHAHRUL AINLIAH ALANG AHMAD Ph.D. (University of Sheffield) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr.) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 89466805 Fax: 03 89435380 Email:[email protected] EXPERTISE Analytical Chemistry, Biosensors, Surface Chemistry ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Shahrul Ainliah Alang Ahmad is a senior lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science. She is also the research associate member for Institute of Advanced Technology (ITMA), Universiti Putra Malaysia. Her main research area focuses on self-assembly of functional organic molecules on silicon and gold, surface chemistry, and optical and electrochemical sensors. Major sponsors of her research include the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS), Research University Grant Scheme (RUGS) and Geran Putra . CURRENT RESEARCH INTEREST : • Self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) Self-assembly is a term used to describe the spontaneous formation of ordered monolayers or multilayers of amphiphilic materials. The monolayers are commonly used as model templates in the study of surface modification and nanoscale fabrication. The high density and stability of SAMs have potential applications in sensing, corrosion prevention, biocompability and biomimetic characteristics. • Surface Chemistry With the increasing interest in organic synthesis on solid supports, industrial development of combinatorial chemistry methodologies and the importance of surface reaction in biochemistry, the prospect of using SAMs in surface chemistry manipulation, patterning and derivatization are interesting to study. • Optical and electrochemical sensors In the field of chemical sensors, the selectivity and sensitivity of calixarene and functional organic thin films on solid surfaces have been developed for electrochemical and optical sensors that can be applied to monitor heavy metal ions in water contamination and tropical disease such dengue. .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Analytical Chemistry, Nanotechnology, Sensor Technology ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: http://www.upmbiosensor.com/v2/index.php/researchers/shahrul-ainliah-alang-ahmad

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

SITI MARIAM MOHD NOR Ph.D. (University of Nottingham) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-office: 03 89466780 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Organic Synthesis ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Mariam’s research focuses on the synthetic organic chemistry. She is working on naturally and synthetic active compounds also its derivatives including atranones, anthraquinones, cyclic peptides, carbazoles and neolignans for anticancer and insecticide application. Major sponsors of her research includes the Research University Grant Scheme (RUGS) and Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS). CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : • Total Synthesis of Bioactive Compounds. • Development of Synthetic Methodology. • Synthesis of Natural Product Derivatives or Analogues. • Heterocyclic Compounds. • Cyclic Peptides. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Synthesis ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Website: https://upm.academia.edu/SitiMariamMohdNor

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

SITI MUNIRAH MOHD FAUDZI Ph.D. (Universiti Putra Malaysia) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-office: 03 89466797 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Organic Synthesis ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Siti Munirah is a senior lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science. She is also a research associate at the Laboratory of Natural Products, Institute of Bioscience since 2016. Her research interests are in the area of design and synthesis of therapeutic compounds as potential treatments for antiinflammatory, anti-cancer, diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. She is also keen to improve their pharmacokinetic properties and run the metabolism studies on the most potent compounds. Currently Dr. Siti Munirah’s research sponsors are the IPM grant scheme from UPM (formerly known as the Research University Grant Scheme, RUGS) and Malaysia Toray Science Foundation (MTSF). CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : • Development of natural product-based compounds as potential therapeutic agents • Design and synthesis of bioactive compounds on selected diseases (incorporated together with their pharmacokinetic studies) ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Synthesis, medicinal chemistry ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Siti_Munirah_Mohd_Faudzi2

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

TAN YEN PING Ph.D. (University of Cambridge) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr.) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 89466789 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Catalysis, Inorganic Synthesis ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Tan Yen Ping is a senior lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science. She is also one of the principal researchers at the Centre of Excellence for Catalysis Science and Technology (PutraCAT) Universiti Putra Malaysia. Her major research areas include solid electrolytes and oxide ion conductors for applications in fuel cells and sensors, synthesis and applications of solid oxides in heterogeneous catalytic reactions, as well as applications of low-cost materials in wastewater treatment. Major sponsors of the research work include the Science Fund (Ministry of Science and Innovation of Malaysia (MOSTI)), Research University Grant Scheme (RUGS) and Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS). CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS: • Solid Electrolytes and Oxide Ion Conductors Research work focuses on the synthesis and characterization of new solid electrolytes and oxide ion conductors Physical and chemical properties of these new materials are studied to evaluate the potentials of these materials for the applications in solid oxide fuel cells and sensors. • Heterogeneous Catalysts Research work includes the preparation and characterization of various solid oxides and supported metal catalysts for the applications in catalytic reactions such as biodiesel production and petrochemical reactions. Physical and chemical properties of the catalysts are investigated. Design and modifications are made on the catalysts to enhance the catalytic behaviours. • Low-cost Materials for Wastewater Treatment Various low-cost materials such as rice husk and sugar cane bagasse are used and chemically modified for the removal of dyes and heavy metals. The potentials of these low-cost materials are evaluated to provide cheaper and more effective alternatives for wastewater treatment. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: ?? ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

THAHIRA BEGUM Ph.D. (Universiti Putra Malaysia) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr.) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 89466804 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Inorganic Synthesis, Biological Studies ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr Thahira completed her Masters and PhD in Synthesis in 2005 and 2008, at Universiti Putra Malaysia. She joined UPM as a Senior Lecturer in 2010. Dr Thahira Begum’s major research areas involve the synthesis, characterization, biological studies and single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis of nitrogen sulphur ligands, and their transition metal complexes. The focus of her work includes structural studies of novel nitrogen sulphur Schiff bases and their specificity and selectivity in biological reactions when a small functional group on the Schiff bases are altered or replaced with other functional groups. She has authored and co- authored more than 20 technical papers. Major sponsors of her research include the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS), Research University Grant Scheme (RUGS) and the ScienceFund. Dr Thahira is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry UK since 2016 and an affiliate member of the Young Scientists’ Network of the Academy of Sciences, Malaysia. Since 2013 CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS: • Synthesis and Biological Activities Main research interests include the synthesis of Schiff bases, and complexation together with biologically relevant molecules such as saccharin and imidazole, and their reactions with first-row transition metals. The potential bioactivities against an array of microbes, and cancer cell lines, specifically breast cancer cell lines (both estrogen receptor positive and negative cells) and bladder cancer cell lines are also investigated. The characterization of these complexes via physico-chemical and spectroscopic analysis as well as thermal analysis is of interest. • Structural Studies Structural studies of these Schiff bases and their transition metal complexes are carried out by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and the data obtained is currently being utilized in some computational studies involving molecular docking and QSAR. Thus far, we have obtained promising data on the bioactivities of these complexes and initial analyses indicate that small changes in the backbone of the structure of the complexes were able to either enhance or reduce the bioactivity of the metal complexes especially against the cancer cells tested. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: -Inorganic Synthesis, Medicinal Chemistry ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

YUSRAN SULAIMAN Ph.D. (Durham University) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-office: 03 89466779 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE ?? ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Yusran Sulaiman is a senior lecturer at the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). He is also an associate researcher at Functional Device Lab in Institute of Advanced Technology (ITMA), UPM. His research interest are preparation of materials, mainly conducting polymer based-materials and nanomaterials (graphene, metal oxide, carbon nanotubes etc.) for the applications as sensing platforms (chemical sensors, biosensors, immunosensors), supercapacitors and photovoltaic devices (solar cell). Various techniques have been used to prepare and characterize the materials, including electrochemical techniques (cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, chronopotentiometry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy etc.), electrospinning and spectroscopic techniques. His research grants mainly are from UPM, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation. CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : • Supercapacitor • Chemical senor • Biosensor • Immunosensor • Solar Cell ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Analytical Chemistry, Materials Science, Energy, Nanotechnology, Sensor Technology ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Researchgate (https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Yusran_Sulaiman) Google scholar (https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=3hNQpowAAAAJ&hl=en)

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

NORHAZLIN ZAINUDDIN Ph.D. (Imperial University) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr.) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-Office: 03 89466800 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Nanomaterials, Polymers ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Norhazlin Zainuddin’s major research areas involve synthesis, characterization and utilization of materials for dental application. The works involve synthesizing various aluminosilicate glasses for glass polyalkenoate cement (GPC). The mechanical strength and the setting reaction of the glass polyalkenoate cements are studied. The glass structure and the chemistry of the setting reaction in GPC are studied using solid state NMR spectroscopy. Dr Norhazlin Zainuddin is also interested in polymer modification especially via irradiation technique. Major sponsors of her research include Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) and Research University Grant Scheme (RUGS). CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS : • Reinforcement of clay in glass polyalkenoate cement The modification of MMT are investigated and applied to the GPC to enhance the mechanical properties of the cement. Various type of modified MMT will be synthesized such as organo clay and cationic clay. Setting reaction and mechanical properties are studied to various GPCs with modified MMT and compared to GPCs without addition of modified MMT. Different type of glass will be studied, and in this study we concentrate on the influence of phosphorus in the glass. Phosphorus is one of the component in the glass and it is important because it presents as Al-O-P bond in the glass network. Therefore, the amount of phosphorus will influence the performance of the GPCs. • Modification of Natural Polymer The modification of natural polymers such as starch and cellulose are investigated through chemical or irradiation techniques. The potential of the modified polymer as hydrogel, composite and removal of heavy metal are studied. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: ? ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

science.nucleus.innovation

Chemistry

NORIZAH ABDUL RAHMAN Ph.D. (University of Auckland) SENIOR LECTURER (Dr) Department of Chemistry Faculty of Science Tel-office: 03 89466801 Fax: 03 89435380 [email protected] EXPERTISE Nanomaterials, Polymers ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Dr. Norizah Abdul Rahman is a senior lecturer at the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). Her research interests are preparation and characterizations of nanomaterials, mainly polymer based-materials nanofibers. These nanofibers were prepared using two methods; electrospinning and chemical polymerization. Various type of polymers has been electrospun to nanofibers including conducting polymers and biodegradable polymers. The nanofibers are studied for the many applications such as drug delivery, filtration and wound dressing. Her research grants mainly from UPM and Ministry of Education. CURRENT RESEARCH INTERESTS: • Hydrogel nanofibers from sago waste for drug delivery applications • Preparation of carbon nanofibers from sago waste ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... LINK TO POSTGRADUATE FIELD OF STUDY: Material Science, Nanotechnology ADDITIONAL INFORMATION • http://profile.upm.edu.my/a_norizah/bm/profail.html • https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Norizah_Abdul_Rahman • https://upm.academia.edu/NorizahAbdulRahman

WIZARDS OF SCIENCE

Chemistry

Chemistry

science.nucleus.innovation

DEPUTY DEAN RESEARCH AND GRADUATES STUDIES FACULTY OF SCIENCE 43400 UPM SERDANG SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN PHONE : 03-8946 7747/ 6603/ 7810 FAX : 03-8943 2508 www.escience.upm.edu.mu