Advisor (NAIST)
Prof. Hisaji Maki
Division of Biological Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST)
Prof. Hisaji Maki is a distinguished Professor of Molecular Biology at the Division of Biological Sciences, Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST), Japan. Holding a Doctor of Science from Kyushu University, he specializes in molecular biology, functional biochemistry, and genetics, with a particular focus on DNA replication, spontaneous mutagenesis, and mechanisms regulating chromosomal abnormalities. Prof. Maki’s highly cited publications include “Origins of Spontaneous Mutations” in the Annual Review of Genetics, showcasing his leadership in understanding genome stability. Beyond research, he fosters international academic collaboration, representing NAIST in partnerships abroad. He serves as the faculty member responsible for NAIST’s international program, overseeing engagement with international students and collaborations with overseas universities
Advisor (UTAR)
Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR)
Prof. Dr. Wong Hann Ling is a Professor in the Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR). He obtained his PhD in Biological Sciences from the Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST), Japan, a Master’s degree in Biotechnology from Universiti Malaya, and a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Science (Biology & Chemistry) from Campbell University. His research focuses on plant biotechnology, molecular biology, synthetic biology, and plant–microbe interactions, where he has made notable contributions through his publications and expertise.
Chairperson
Division of Biological Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST)
Chek Min Fey is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Biological Science at the Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST), where he earned his Ph.D. in Structural Biology in 2017 under the supervision of Prof. Toshio Hakoshima. His research focuses on molecular biology, protein structure, and microbial biotechnology, with a particular interest in enzymes involved in sustainable development – enzymes catalyzing bioplastic synthesis and plastic degradation. As the chairperson of the working group to establish a formal governing body for the MNAA, Chek is responsible for uniting the alumni and setting the direction and timeline for the organization’s development. It is inspiring for him to discover so many like-minded alumni who share a common vision of building MNAA as a platform to contribute to the betterment of future generations in both Malaysia and Japan.
Vice Chair 1 (UM)
Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya
Dr. Nur Ardiyana is a Senior Lecturer at the Institute of Biological Sciences, Universiti Malaya, specializing in Plant Molecular Biology. She earned her PhD from the Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST), Japan, and a Master’s in Plant Genetics and Crop Improvement from the University of East Anglia, UK. Her research explores plant physiology, sustainable crop protection, and wild banana conservation through the Banana Hunter Project. Beyond research, she is dedicated to teaching and mentoring future scientists at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Vice Chair 2 (USM)
School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
Dr. Noreen Suliani is a Senior Lecturer at the School of Industrial Technology, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Penang. She earned her BSc and MSc in Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, respectively, from Universiti Putra Malaysia, and completed her PhD in Biological Sciences at NAIST, Japan. Her research expertise centers on yeast stress responses, genetic engineering, molecular biology, and microbial genetics. She has presented her work at numerous international conferences and has lab attachments at reputable institutions such as the University of Minnesota and UC Davis. Her scholarly contributions include publications in peer-reviewed journals, enhancing the understanding of microbial cell factories and yeast biology.