Meet Normi. Normi is a lecturer, scientist and the first Malaysian to earn a PhD at 27 years old! She specialises in molecular and structural biochemistry. This means she looks at reactions in living organisms. In particular, she looks at evolved enzymes for biodegradable plastics production in microbes.
Early Life
Normi first became interested in molecular biology at the age of 16. She read a lot of scientific books and absorbed all the knowledge. When she was younger, she spent lots of time looking at scientists. She loved their discoveries! Because of this, she kept looking until she became a scientist herself.
Current Research
Her current research investigates hypothetical proteins’ functions, structures and potentials in microbes. Her most recent research looked at overcoming antimicrobial resistance by generating new peptides. These will act as combative agents to antibiotics-resistant pathogens saving human lives. Because antimicrobial resistance is a problem across the world, this research is critical.
Throughout her career, she has published work in reputable journals. On top of this, she has won various awards and recognitions. One of these was being selected as one of Malaysia’s young scientists! Because of this, she attended a meeting of Young Scientists with Nobel Laureates. She is also involved in social awareness programmes like sharing the importance of biotech in schools.
