IMU Biomedical Science (BM) and Medical Biotechnology (MB) students have once again demonstrated academic excellence by winning Top Oral Presenter and Top Poster Presenter awards at the 35th Intervarsity Biochemistry Seminar (IBS). The event was held at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) on 13 December 2025.

The IBS is a prestigious annual event supported by the Malaysian Society for Biochemistry & Molecular Biology (MSBMB) and hosted by a selected university. It provides a national platform for undergraduate students from both public and private institutions across Malaysia to present findings from their final-year research projects in biochemistry, molecular biology, and related life sciences.

At this year’s seminar, IMU students stood out for the quality, depth, and scientific rigor of their research presentations.

Willem Tan B Jay (BM1/23)

Project Title: β-Hydroxybutyrate to Induce Apoptosis in T-Cell Lymphocytic Leukaemia Cells by Targeting the MAPK Pathway
Supervisors: Prof Dr Chye Soi Moi, Dr Ng Pei Ying, and A/Prof Dr Koh Rhun Yian

“It made me realise that this is the reality I aspire to — being involved in biomedical research and learning from others at scientific conferences. The experience cemented my passion for molecular biology and deepened my appreciation for the encouragement and guidance from my supervisory team, which pushed me to persevere and gain confidence in myself,” said Willem.

Stevelyn Lee Jia Xin (BM1/23)

Project Title: Effect of Novel Bioinspired Carbon Quantum Dots (CQDs) as Nanocarriers with 5-Fluorouracil on Pancreatic Cancer Cytotoxicity
Supervisors: A/Prof Dr Lim Chooi Ling, Dr Tan Tong Ling, Prof Ts Dr Mai Chun Wai, and A/Prof Dr Koh Rhun Yian

Stevelyn expressed that winning an award at IBS was a meaningful milestone for her. She felt proud and accomplished to have her work recognised, as it validated the dedication and hard work invested throughout her final-year project. The achievement reaffirmed that the effort and perseverance she put into her research were truly worthwhile.

Sharianne Choo Yan Qi (MB1/23)

Project Title: Deciphering the Anticancer Mechanism of LR-ACP4 Against Breast Cancer Cells Through Transcriptomic Profiling
Supervisors: Ts Dr Yeannie Yap Hui Yeng, Dr Lim Wui Zhuan, and Dr Tang Yin Quan (Taylor’s University)

Sharianne shared that the IBS award seminar was a highly inspiring experience and marked her first opportunity to present her research at a national-level forum alongside distinguished scientists. She also expressed her sincere gratitude to her research team, especially her supervisor, Dr Yeannie, for her invaluable mentorship and unwavering support.

These achievements reflect IMU’s strong emphasis on research-led teaching, undergraduate research training, and academic mentorship.

The University extends its heartfelt congratulations to the award-winning students and their dedicated supervisors for their remarkable accomplishments.