I was inspired by how natural and synthetic compounds can be developed into safer, more effective medicines. This fascination led me into drug discovery — identifying new compounds, characterising their chemical structures, understanding their mechanisms of action, and developing them into potential therapeutic leads. My path has combined phytochemistry, medicinal chemistry, and pharmacology, allowing me to explore how science can transform nature’s resources into life-changing treatments.

Across more than 20 years in academia spanning India, Australia, and Malaysia, my most meaningful achievements have been inspiring young minds, continuously learning through teaching and research, and contributing to discoveries in pharmacology and medicinal chemistry that hold the potential to make a genuine difference in people’s lives.

I accepted the role of Director of Research at the University of Cyberjaya to help shape the university’s research vision and strategy. It gives me the opportunity to mentor researchers across disciplines, encourage cross-faculty collaboration and innovation, and translate discoveries — in pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and beyond — into real-world impact.

My teaching philosophy is to encourage curiosity and independent thinking, helping students connect concepts across different disciplines and apply what they learn to solve real-world problems.

I ensure my teaching stays current by continuously updating course content to reflect the latest scientific discoveries and healthcare practices. I integrate lessons with case studies, problem-based learning, and contemporary examples from pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and therapeutics — ensuring students not only understand theory but can also apply knowledge to address real healthcare challenges.

One memorable experience was teaching students the fundamentals of chemistry and gradually linking them to medicinal chemistry, physiology, and pharmacology through real-life examples. Many who initially struggled developed a genuine interest, went on to pursue research projects, and even contributed to publications — demonstrating the impact of connecting theory with practice.

My research journey began by observing how people in my village used local plants to treat ailments ranging from fevers to snake bites. This inspired me to explore how traditional medicinal plants contribute to modern drug discovery. Over time, my work evolved to combine natural and synthetic approaches, using techniques such as chromatography and spectral analysis to identify active compounds, test them in laboratory and animal studies, and link the fields of phytochemistry, medicinal chemistry, and pharmacology.

Key Research Initiatives and Collaborations:

1. ASEAN–India Research Fund Project
   Title:Target-based Screening and Development of Hydroxyethylamine Derivatives as Novel Antimalarials (CRD/2022/000580)
   Focus: Discovery and development of novel antimalarial compounds through target-based approaches.
2. Collaboration with the Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Indonesia
   Project:Ethnomedical Exploration of Natural Ingredients for Postpartum Care and Breast Milk Stimulation among Three Indigenous Tribes
   Focus: Investigating traditional medicinal practices to identify bioactive compounds beneficial for maternal health.
3. Collaboration with the National Cancer Society Malaysia
   Focus:Implementing initiatives to raise cancer awareness and promote preventive healthcare practices.
4. Research Collaboration with IMCB–Indivumed Joint Lab
   Focus: Developing and applying innovative methodologies to advance biomedical research.

My priorities include enhancing research quality and impact, fostering international and industry collaborations, supporting early-career researchers, strengthening research infrastructure, and promoting innovation and commercialisation. A core focus is aligning UoC’s research with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to build a vibrant and sustainable research ecosystem.

I aim to build trust-based, long-term partnerships between academia and industry by working closely with UoC’s Industry and International Engagement teams. Together, we focus on practical, solution-driven research, developing innovative approaches, providing industry-relevant training, and achieving outcomes such as patents, start-ups, and measurable social benefits.

To inspire greater participation in research, it is essential to provide funding opportunities, recognition, training, and mentorship, as well as to encourage collaboration with industry and communities. Bridging the gap between academia and industry also requires modernising research approaches and staying informed about the latest developments across disciplines.

A few decades ago, research was a choice. Today, in an era of artificial intelligence and instant access to information, knowledge alone is not enough. Young researchers must cultivate innovative thinking, leverage emerging technologies, and focus on transforming ideas into practical, socially impactful, and affordable solutions that improve lives.