The Faculty of Science recently hosted a webinar entitled ‘Unlocking Nature’s Potential: Sustainable Research From Natural Resources’, which was delivered by Prof Zainab Ngaini from the Faculty of Resource Science and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak.
During the webinar, Prof Zainab explained that in the face of escalating environmental challenges and diminishing non-renewable resources, exploring sustainable solutions from natural resources has become imperative. Her talk delved into innovative research methodologies that harness nature’s potential, emphasizing sustainable practices that contribute to environmental conservation and societal well-being. Cutting-edge studies on natural resource utilization, including bioprospecting innovations, breakthroughs in drug discovery, green chemistry and sustainable research were highlighted. Additionally, the talk also showcased successful applications of natural resource-based solutions in various industries from solar cells and liquid crystals to energy storage and pharmaceuticals. By unlocking nature’s potential, we can pave the way for a more sustainable future, balancing human needs with environmental stewardship.
Zainab Ngaini is a Professor at the Faculty of Resource Science and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS). She earned her PhD in Organic Chemistry from the University of East Anglia, UK, in 2002. At UNIMAS, she is deeply engaged in R&D and has supervised 13 PhD and 41 MSc students in organic and applied chemistry. Her expertise spans the synthesis of organic compounds for pharmaceuticals, solar cells, and liquid crystals, as well as the chemical modification of agricultural waste for green industrial applications. Professor Zainab has garnered several prestigious gold medals at both local and international R&D expositions. She has held numerous administrative positions at UNIMAS, including Head of the Resource Chemistry Program, Head of the Intellectual Property Management & Commercialization Unit, Head of the Natural Science Research Cluster, and Head of Faculty Academic Quality Management. Currently, she serves as the university Senate member and the Head of Mentors in Research. In addition, Professor Zainab is a Fellow of the Institut Kimia Malaysia (IKM) and Vice Chairman of IKM Sarawak Chapter.
