Research skills foster nex t generation of Mal aysian scientists
Fazren brought his research skills back to Malaysia to help develop the country’s future scientists. UQ Bachelor of Biotechnology graduate, Fazren Azmi, returned to Malaysia to share his passion for research with a new generation of Malaysian scientists. Fazren majored in Drug Design and Development and completed an Honours project under the supervision of UQ’s Professor Istvan Toth, a world renowned drug delivery expert. Within a month of returning to Malaysia, Fazren was offered a job as a Product Specialist in a pharmaceutical company. Six months later he was offered a Research Fellow and Lecturer position at the National University of Malaysia. “Being a graduate from such a prestigious university as UQ was an advantage in securing an interview with my employer,” he said. “UQ is recognised as one of the top universities for medical research. Expertise in certain areas of medical research is greatly needed in Malaysia.” The Bachelor of Biotechnology program provided a good grounding in basic science and pharmacology, as well as providing Fazren with laboratory experience and skills in commercialisation. His Honours project added to his employability and gave him the edge when applying for jobs. While employed by the Faculty of Pharmacy at the National University of Malaysia, Fazren researched drug design and development, taught students and participated in outreach activities. Fazren wants to continue to shape the minds of future generations of scientists and is now taking study leave to pursue a PhD qualification. A doctoral degree will assist his promotion to a Senior Lecturer position, as well as enabling him to develop innovative new research projects and supervise students at undergraduate and postgraduate level.
Fazren Azmi Lecturer and Research Fellow Faculty of Pharmacy National University of Malaysia (UKM) UQ Qualifications Bachelor of Biotechnology (Drug Design and Development) with Honours 2011 SALARY RANGE Minimum 3500 MYR Maximum 30 000 MYR Average 10 000 MYR (Malaysian Ringgit)
“Being a researcher and lecturer allows me to pursue my interests in science, to learn something new, to hone my problem-solving skills and to challenge myself in new ways,” he said. “Sharing my knowledge for the benefit of others is what I love most about my job.”
33