Fulfilment in pharmaceutical chemistry
IMU’S MSC in Analytical and Pharmaceutical Chemistry (MAPC) is a mixed mode Master programme consisting of 21 credits of coursework modules and 22 credits of research project.
The coursework modules feature hands-on learning including laboratory practicals and training on chemistry computational tools in drug discovery while the research project requires original investigation that is supported and guided by your supervisory committee, individually or as part of a research team. You will also have many opportunities to network and present your research at local and international conferences.
This year, MAPC students Bu Huey Enn, Lai Jia Hui, Ung Ser Ming and Wong Yi Hang took the opportunity to present their research under the category of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Medicinal Chemistry at the 9th International Postgraduate Conference on Pharmaceutical Sciences (IPOPS) international conference.
Out of all the poster presentations, Bu, Lai and Wong were among those selected for the best poster awards.
“My IPOPS participation allowed me to know the latest research trends in pharmaceutical sciences and provided an excellent platform to present for the first time at an international conference. I believe this experience will build and strengthen my confidence for future presentations,” shares Lai.
“I am working on machine learning-based hit discovery, although machine learningbased drug discovery is a hot topic, it’s unfortunate not to have much of such research being carried out in Malaysia. This event has given me the pleasure and opportunity to share and hear works being carried out worldwide. We as researchers usually work in highly individualised environments, almost akin to silos and it is platforms like this that allow for ideas to be exchanged and to inspire the next research questions. Attending IPOPS had given me a bigger picture of what other fellow researchers are working on and the techniques they used. This sparked several ideas that might develop into my next research question,” echoes Wong.
Bu and Ung also contributed their time and effort as Sponsorship Lead & Members of the student organising committee.
“The sharing sessions were insightful, constructive and highly motivating. All the information shared broadened my perspective on the research field, especially in the field of medicinal chemistry. The IPOPS conference undoubtedly served as a stepping stone for us to gain new knowledge and experience as we have the opportunity to present our research project to an international audience. I was also delighted to join the student organising committee group. The overall success of the conference owes it all to my committee teammates and the organising chair for their continuous effort and support. Personally, my teamwork and problem-solving skills were further enhanced as a result of this experience,” shares Bu.
“To be part of the IPOPS conference was a humbling experience that gave me insight into the world of scientific research and how each research presented plays an equally important role to make significant changes in society. Through this conference, I was able to present my research to a larger, international audience in the form of a poster. As part of the sponsorship committee, I was able to aid in the designing of the virtual booth with guidance from the sponsorship lead. Overall, it was a rewarding and first-of-its-kind experience for me,” shares Ung.
Graduates of the programme are workready to enter the industry, academia or continue to PHD. This programme is also suitable if you are already working and are seeking to improve your career prospects without having to take a break from work.
Flexible part-time study enables students to tailor their studies to their capabilities. Furthermore, the programme is also available in open and distance learning (ODL) delivery mode, while in the conventional mode, teaching and learning activities are conducted over the weekends.
The duration of the programme is one year for full-time study and up to six years for part-time study. The programme is accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency and internationally accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry, United Kingdom.
The commencement of this programme is in March and September of each year.
For more information about this or IMU’S other postgraduate programmes, call 032731 7272, email postgraduate@imu.edu.my or visit www.imu.edu.my.