Syamimi Ghazali is a passionate materials science researcher from Penang, Malaysia, with over 3 years of hands-on experience in cellulose technology, polymer materials, and adsorption science. Currently pursuing her Ph.D. at the National University of Malaysia (UKM), she is advancing research in TEMPO-mediated cellulose oxidation for biodegradable materials. Her work spans sustainable materials for agriculture, including hydrogels, membranes, and slow-release fertilizers derived from renewable sources like kenaf and EFB. Syamimi is a published author in peer-reviewed journals and an active presenter at international forums. She has collaborated with industry and academia on groundbreaking projects involving composite hydrogel development and innovative agricultural media. In addition to her research, she mentors undergraduate students and supports scientific events such as the LRGS Conference on Urban Farming 2023. Known for her leadership and technical skills, she is committed to driving sustainable solutions in material innovation.
Profile
Scopus
🎓 EducationÂ
Syamimi Ghazali is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Materials Science at the National University of Malaysia (UKM), expected to complete in 2025. Her thesis focuses on the development of regenerated cellulose membranes and hydrogel beads using TEMPO-oxidized cellulose, aimed at slow-release agricultural applications. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Materials Science with Second Class Honours from the same institution in 2021, graduating with an impressive CGPA of 3.63. Her undergraduate thesis explored the use of pre-cold dissolution techniques for producing cellulose beads, laying the foundation for her passion in sustainable material science. In addition to formal degrees, she has gained certifications in Life Cycle Assessment (Simapro), Plastic Injection Moulding (ISO 9000), and Ethos Lean Microwave Systems, further reinforcing her technical competencies and readiness for advanced R&D roles.
đź’Ľ ExperienceÂ
Syamimi is a Graduate Research Assistant at UKM since 2021, where she explores biodegradable cellulose-based materials through TEMPO-mediated oxidation. She has co-led projects involving dye adsorption, slow-release fertilizers, and cryogels from kenaf and EFB waste. She collaborated with industries like FARMASIA and MRSB for wound healing gels and agricultural hydrogels. As an intern in 2021, she fabricated aerogels, edible sachets, and reinforced cellulose products. Syamimi has mentored undergraduates and hosted academic events such as the LRGS Conference on Urban Farming 2023. Her lab experience includes FTIR, UV-VIS, rheometry, and viscometry. She excels in research administration, technical documentation, and team collaboration. Her innovative efforts were recognized in various national expos and innovation challenges.
🏆 Awards and HonorsÂ
Syamimi’s scientific excellence has been recognized with numerous awards. She won a Bronze Medal at the Materials Technology Challenge (MTC 7.0, 2022) for her work on enhanced CMC fibres and a Silver Medal at the 4th SIRIM Invention Expo for innovative biodegradable materials. Her undergraduate research earned her the Best Undergraduate Thesis Award from the Malaysian Society for Solid State Science & Technology (MASS). She consistently achieved the Dean’s Award for five semesters and received a Consolation Prize in the Environmental Quiz during National Science Week 2024. These accolades reflect her dedication to academic excellence, innovation in materials development, and commitment to environmental sustainability. Her active participation in competitions and workshops highlights her drive to contribute meaningful solutions in science and engineering.
🔬 Research FocusÂ
Syamimi’s research lies at the intersection of sustainable materials science and environmental engineering. She focuses on developing biodegradable, cellulose-based hydrogels and membranes via TEMPO-mediated oxidation techniques. Her work explores the use of agricultural waste like kenaf, EFB, and cotton linter in creating slow-release fertilizers, dye adsorbents, and smart packaging materials. She also investigates the mechanical and thermal properties of these eco-friendly composites for enhanced agricultural performance. Her recent projects include hydrogel development for wound healing, regenerated fibres as reinforcement scaffolds, and the design of cellulose membranes with tailored porosity and swelling behavior. By collaborating with industries and universities, Syamimi’s research is contributing to Malaysia’s green technology innovation and circular economy practices. Her scientific inquiry bridges fundamental chemistry with real-world applications, paving the way for eco-innovation in material systems.
 Conclusion
Syamimi Ghazali stands out as a promising and impactful early-career researcher in the field of sustainable materials science. Her academic achievements, publication record, technical abilities, and involvement in real-world application projects make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With continued growth in international collaboration, research independence, and innovation translation, she has the potential to make significant contributions to both academia and industry.