UTAR Doctor of Philosophy student receives prestigious IKM Research Prize

UTAR Faculty of Science Doctor of Philosophy student Chan Yu Bin has been named the recipient of the IKM Research Prize in Polymer and Materials Science 2024, awarded by the Council of the Institut Kimia Malaysia (IKM). The award, which includes a cash prize of RM1,000, recognises his outstanding contributions to research in Polymer and Materials Science.

The award ceremony will be held on 6 December 2024 at Petaling Jaya. Sponsored by HARPS Global and Synthomer Sdn Bhd, the IKM Research Prize celebrates the top PhD researchers in Malaysia who demonstrate excellence, innovation, and a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge in Polymer and Materials Science.

Reflecting on this honour, Chan expressed his gratitude and shared what set his work apart. He said, “I believe my dedication to pushing the boundaries of Polymer and Materials Science, particularly in addressing real-world environmental challenges, made my research stand out. IKM’s recognition is a profound honour, affirming the importance of not only scientific discovery but also its application and societal impact.”

Chan also credited UTAR for its critical role in his success and stated, “Studying at UTAR has been instrumental in achieving this milestone. The University’s emphasis on research excellence and its support in providing advanced laboratory facilities, expert guidance, and interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities were critical in shaping my work in Polymer and Materials Science.”
He further highlighted the contributions of his supervisors and mentors at UTAR, whose encouragement and insights helped him explore innovative solutions and maintain high scientific standards.

“UTAR’s culture of nurturing curiosity and resilience truly prepared me to tackle the challenges in my field, from complex problem-solving to applying theory in impactful, practical ways. Winning this award is the evidence of the support system UTAR has in place for students like myself, empowering us to not only excel in our research but also contribute meaningfully to science and society.”