Sandy Hwei-San Loh

Dr. Sandy Loh, a virologist and molecular biologist, joined the University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) in 2006 and has been lecturing in the molecular biology and biotechnology areas for >17 years. She is a Full Professor in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology at the University, Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, UK, and the Head of School of Biosciences. Dr. Loh's research prowess spans diverse areas, including cancer therapeutics discovery, emphasizing the exploration of natural bioactives and tocotrienols. Her expertise extends to the development of affordable biosensors, with a specialization in real-time PCR, aptamer, and electrochemical platforms for both human and veterinary medical applications. Additionally, she leads molecular pharming initiatives, focusing on biopharmaceutical proteins to combat communicable and non-communicable diseases. She served as the Director of the UNM Biotechnology Research Centre during 2010-18, overseeing its facilitation of various molecular biotechnology research domains. Currently, she holds the position of Founding Leader of the Cancer Research Group at UNM, aiming to unite diverse expertise to unravel the complexities of cancer, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life. Dr. Loh is a passionate advocate for workplace equality and diversity. She spearheaded efforts at UNM, securing its first international Athena SWAN Bronze Award in 2014 and serving as Chair of Gender Equality in Nottingham (GEN) during 2016-22. Dedicated to empowering women in science, she recently became Chair of the Organization for Women in Science (OWIS), Malaysia, collaborating with like-minded individuals to ensure equal opportunities and recognition for women and girls in in all areas of science and technology.