1. Bioinformatics & System Biology
Bioinformatics field of study involves the application of knowledge in computer science and information technology to analyze, interpret and organize a wealth of genomic and proteomic data which are increasing in recent years. It is one of the vital components in the field of systems biology which emphasizes the study of organisms as a complete living system, which comprises of individual biological components: from molecules to cell, its metabolic pathways and their interactions. This field of study involves a cascade of multidisciplinary approaches ranging from bioinformatics, genomics, proteomics, cell and protein biochemistry, basic genetics and many more. Knowledge in system biology is crucial to reveal and understand gene and protein networks involved in individual cell signalling, communications between cells in communities and cellular metabolic pathways. This field of study is emerging as central to most areas of biology and medicine.
2. Cell Biotechnology
Animal cell biotechnology has become one of the major areas in life sciences. The discovery of technologies such as genetic engineering that includes cloning, recombinant DNA and gene transfer has led to the development in animal cell biotechnology. The many applications of animal biotechnology include the production of new and improved pharmaceuticals, cell based assays and provides specialized animals for disease studies. Research utilizing the animal cells has contributed to developments in stem cell research for regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, gene expression study in animal cells, production of recombinant proteins, therapeutic products and viral vaccines, development in cell based assays for drug discovery and toxicity study. Research and development in this area will potentially contribute to production of biopharmaceutical products for medical applications.
Associate Professor Dr. Noorjahan Banu Mohamed Alitheen
3. Immunobiology
Immunobiology is the study of the immune system and immunologic phenomena which function to protect the body from foreign intrusion. It encompasses basic immunological research of the structure, development, growth and functions of cells and organs of the immune system (basic immunology). The knowledge enables various immunologic principles to be applied,e.g. in diagnostic tests (antigen-antibody reaction), diagnosis of health (cellular and humoral immune functional assays), and prevention of diseases (immunisation). The field also utilises basic immunology to understand how defects in the immune system lead to diseases such as infection, allergy, autoimmune diseases and graft versus host diseases, with the purpose of improving health management including prevention, diagnosis and treatment
4. Enzyme Biotechnology
The topic covers important food enzymes such as oxidoreductases and hydrolases group. The field encompasses fundamental and applied enzymology including enzyme characteristics, kinetics, structural and functional properties and applications. Molecular techniques are engaged towards improving the characteristics of enzymes for enhancement of all aspects of food quality. Application of enzymes in food processing and preservation of food quality are given due recognition.
5. Industrial Biotechnology
Industrial biotechnology is the application of biotechnology for industrial purposes, including manufacturing, alternatives energy and biomaterials. This field is a main area of research in the commercialization development of biotechnology products and industrial bioprocesses, using enzymes and biological cells (micro-organism, plant and animal) or their physiological bioprocesses. Industrial biotechnology area is making an increasing impact in the chemical sector, enabling both the conversion of renewable resources, such as celluloses, starches, sugars and vegetable oils, and the more efficient conversion of conventional raw materials using biotechnological processes (including bio-catalysis) into a wide variety of chemical substances and biotechnology products, many of which cannot be made directly by synthetic routes. These bio-products include fine and bulk chemicals, pharmaceuticals, bio-colorants, solvents, bio-plastics, vitamins, food additives, bio-pesticides and liquid biofuels such as bioethanol and biodiesel.
6. Microbial Biotechnology
Microbial Biotechnology is the exploitation of microorganisms using multi-disciplinary biotechnology approaches for various biological and industrial applications. The specific biochemical and physiological properties of the microorganisms are characterized and optimized using omics technologies, systems or synthetic biology approaches to transform them into cell factories for production of useful molecules. Manipulation of microorganisms through cutting-edge biotechnology strategies would lead to breakthroughs such as improved disease-diagnostic tools, more efficient biological control of plant and animal pests and pathogens for reduced virulence, development of new industrial catalysts, and fermentation organisms, and development of new microbial agents for bioremediation of contaminated soil and water. Microbial biotechnology research is also critical for advances in food safety, food security, biotechnology, value-added products, human nutrition and functional foods, plant and animal protection, and furthering fundamental research in various areas.
Professor Dr. Raha Abdul Rahim
Professor Dr. Norhani Abdullah
7. Marine and Fresh Water Ecosystem
This field of study covers terrestrial and marine aquatic ecosystems in relation to energy flow, biogeochemical cycles, aquatic ecosystem dynamics and effects of pollution caused by humans.
Dr. Sanjoy Banerjee
8. Genetics
Current research in this field focuses on animal and plant conservation and characterisation. It applies recent genetic theories and methods, including the most recent advances in the genomics and proteomics of animals, in the study of biomolecular structures and their connection to the functionand genetic manipulation of animal cells and seed plants. This field also covers the evolutionary and life histories of animals and plants that can enhance understanding of the importance of genetic variation to their survival, and the methods needed to sustain them in the natural environment and laboratory condition. Research conducted in this field include conservation of the orchid species using state-of-the-art molecular techniques and in vitro cultures of the orchid seeds, genetic characterisation of local fruits, fungi and herbs using DNA markers, genes isolation and expression to study their structures and functions, and development of DNA markers. Also included are molecular aspects of animals (especially the endemic and endangered wildlife) in order to understand and conserve biodiversity through genetic research.
9. Pharmacology & Toxicology
This field of study focuses on the scientific studies of drug interaction and poison/biohazard on biological system, in vivo or in vitro, or both. It covers pharmaco/toxico-dynamic, pharmaco/toxico-kinetics, drug/poison actions, body reactions on drug/poison and specific drug-drug/poison interactions, and changes in parameter(s) studied. Studies on the pathway and mechanism of action are also emphasized. Assessment of extract, bioactive compound from natural sources (plant and animal) or synthetic and their potential in drug discovery and physiological function in relation with toxicological problem is also included.
10. Microbiology
Microbiology is a study of microscopic organisms. Their invisibility to the naked eyes led to earlier belief of their existence in association of many illnesses. Since the advent of microscopes, this field has advanced tremendously, penetrating into myriad of research disciplines. Microbiology is a field of study encompassing many branches of pure and applied sciences. Its areas include physiology, cellular and structural biology, genetics, biochemistry, nano-technology, molecular biology, systematics and taxonomy, environmental biotechnology, ecology and virology. Despite their association with diseases, microbes are beneficial in industrial processes. Their exploits have far-reaching impacts in sustaining and improving human existence such as in the production of antibiotics, amino acids, enzymes and biopolymers tailored for medical applications, and in bioremediation of domestic, agricultural and industrial wastes. Although microorganisms have been studied for over 400 years, their exact identification and characterization are still incomplete. This highlights Microbiology as an important field for future exploration.
Prof. Dr. Tan Wen Siang
Prof. Datin Paduka Dr. Khatijah Yusoff
Prof. Dr. Foo Hooi Ling
Prof. Madya Dr. Chia Suet Lin
Prof. Madya Dr. Nurulfiza Mat Isa
Prof. Dr. Zunita Zakaria
Prof. Madya Dr. Yaya Rukayadi
Prof. Dr. Wong Mui Yun
Associate Professor Dr. Tan Geok Hun
Dr. Adelene Song Ai Lian
Updated:: 12/12/2022 [azah]
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