UNM recently appointed Prof Mohd Shahir Liew as the Research and Knowledge Exchange (RKE) new vice provost.
THE University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) has long been recognised for its unwavering commitment to research excellence that not only expands the realms of knowledge but also addresses pressing global challenges.
Recently, UNM has taken significant strides with the appointment of Prof Mohd Shahir Liew as the Research and Knowledge Exchange (RKE) new vice provost.
With a wealth of background in academia and research, Prof Shahir is set to spearhead UNM's commitment to research excellence.
This strategic move is complemented by the exceptional recognition of UNM researchers in the prestigious Stanford List 2023, where they ranked among the top 2% of scientists globally. This dual achievement underscores the university's dedication to fostering a world-class research environment.
Prof Shahir's journey is one of dedication and passion for advancing knowledge. Prof Shahir is a civil engineer obtaining his Bachelor of Science and PhD in Structural Dynamics at Texas Tech University in the United States, focusing on offshore engineering and structural dynamics.
He has held several senior academic and leadership positions in Civil and Environmental Engineering, and Geosciences and Petroleum Engineering.
With a background in chemical engineering, he has contributed significantly to the field, with research spanning sustainable energy solutions and environmental engineering. He is poised to bring a wealth of experience and expertise for his role at UNM.
In this new position, Prof Shahir's role is pivotal in steering the institution towards new heights. His wealth of experience and passion for research positions him as a catalyst for fostering collaboration, innovation, and impactful knowledge exchange within UNM and beyond.
Global recognition
The Stanford List, a prestigious compilation of the top 2% scientists globally, serves as a testament to the calibre of researchers associated with UNM. This year, eight UNM researchers have been honoured, demonstrating the institution's commitment to fostering top-tier scientific talent.
This accolade not only reflects the individual brilliance of UNM's researchers but also underscores the university's collective dedication to producing high-impact research.
Two distinguished professors, Prof Dr Lam Hon Loong and Prof Dr Dominic Foo Chuan Yee, stand out among UNM's exceptional faculty.
Both recognised on the Stanford List 2023, these scholars represent the calibre of experts that UNM attracts and retains.
Prof Lam's expertise spans environmental chemistry, while Prof Dominic is renowned for groundbreaking contributions in the chemical and waste minimisation industry. Together, they exemplify the wealth of knowledge UNM cultivates.
Prof Dr Lam Hon Loong shared that good research is always grounded in real-world observations and practical applications.
Prof Lam shares some tips on how to conduct good research:
“Good research is always grounded in real-world observations and practical applications. It is not purely theoretical or abstract.
“Applicable research, when properly transferred, makes an impact beyond academics. Research that has good practical applications can act as a catalyst to positive change.”
Prof Dr Dominic Foo encourages fellow scientists in Malaysia to stay persistent with the good research work that they are doing.
Understanding the complexities of research, Prof Dominic shares some words of encouragement to aspiring researchers:
“To my fellow scientists in Malaysia, please stay persistent with the good work that you are doing. No doubt that many of us feel frustrated as research efforts often do not obtain recognition.
“If your research output has good quality, it will still shine on various international platforms.”
Academic excellence
In an era where universities play a crucial role in shaping the future, UNM stands at the forefront, driven by a commitment to research excellence and visionary leadership.
With Prof Mohd Shahir Liew leading the university’s RKE hub, UNM is poised to continue its trajectory as a hub of knowledge creation and academic distinction.
For those eager to embark on a transformative educational journey and be part of a community that values research excellence, UNM beckons.
Explore your interests, chart your academic course, and become part of a vibrant community that thrives on intellectual curiosity. To know more about the varsity, visit www.nottingham.edu.my.
