Research Program

Research Projects

Emerging Infectious Disease: Preparation for Disease X

Introduction:

This is a national research program designed to prepare for future pandemic threats, especially an unknown pathogen referred to as "Disease X." It uses a multi-disciplinary approach that combines big data analysis, artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, and various biotechnologies. The program focuses on RNA viruses because they have the highest potential to cause future pandemics. The key goals are to develop a smart digital system for monitoring and tracking diseases and to win the "arms race" against viruses by understanding how they mutate and cause disease.

Objectives:

To develop an integrated digital system for monitoring, predicting, and tracking public health threats.
To better understand the mutation patterns and disease-causing mechanisms of RNA viruses.
To create platform technologies for rapid diagnostics and vaccines.

Collaborators:

Malaysian Ministry of Health, networks of local researchers, and foreign institutions.

Team Leader:

Dr. Ng Siew Kit

Team Members:

Dr. Noorsuzana Shariff
Dr. Hazrina Yusof Hamdani
Dr. Norfarazieda Hassan
Dr. Muhammad Amir Yunus
Dr. Ahmad Naqib Shuid
Dr. Mohd Syamsul Reza
Dr. Citartan Marimuthu
Dr. Stil Aminah Ahmed
Dr. Asmida Isa
Dr. Ch'ng Ewe Seng

Advanced Management of Liver Malignancies (Liver-ENRICH) Research Program

Introduction:

This research program aims to improve the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of liver cancer. It combines advanced imaging and molecular approaches to enhance early detection. The goal is to significantly improve survival rates and life expectancy for liver cancer patients over a 15-year period.

Objectives:

To explore advanced screening methodologies for liver malignancies by combining imaging and molecular approaches.
To develop an integrated, personalized system for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy decisions using a deep-learning neural network.
To discover new radiation and molecular-based treatment methods and techniques.
To evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients using a computer-assisted method and continuously improve treatment plans.

Team Leader:

Associate Professor Dr. Noor Diyana Binti Osman

Dementia Multidisciplinary Research Program of IPPT (DMR-IPPT)

Introduction:

Dementia is a clinical syndrome characterized by impaired cognitive functions that interfere with daily activities. With the global population aging, dementia prevalence is rising rapidly. The DMR-IPPT is a multidisciplinary research initiative under the Department of Community Health, IPPT, USM, aimed at addressing the challenges in dementia diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. The program envisions becoming a national centre of excellence for holistic dementia research and therapeutics by 2037.

Objectives:

To develop an integrated diagnostic methodology for early detection of dementia.
To develop a prediction tool for dementia risk using machine learning.
To develop a multidisciplinary advanced therapeutic program for dementia management.
To develop preventive interventions for dementia.

Collaborators:

The program involves 38 researchers from various disciplines. Emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration and aims to establish 10 networking or linkages.

Team Leader:

Dr. Rohayu Binti Hami

Oral Cancer Research Group

Introduction:

The Oral Cancer Research Group (OCRG) is a research unit within the Department of Dental Science at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). It focuses on addressing the significant health burden of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in Malaysia through multidisciplinary research. The group aims to revolutionize patient care by enhancing prevention, early diagnosis, and therapeutic outcomes, with a vision to become a globally recognized center of excellence.

Objectives:

To enhance early detection and reduce OSCC incidence through targeted education and risk-reduction strategies.
To develop precise, early OSCC detection methods using cutting-edge imaging and biomarker-based diagnostics.
To pioneer advanced treatment modalities to improve oncologic and functional outcomes.
To optimize long-term functional recovery and quality of life through personalized rehabilitation, functional restoration, and long-term quality-of-life improvements.

Collaborators:

USM was designated as a Centre of Excellence for head and neck cancer brachytherapy by the Netherlands-based Brachy Academy.

Team Leader:

Dr. Ahmad Fakrurrozi Bin Mohamad
Dr. Muhammad Azrul Bin Zabidi

Team Members:

Associate Professor Dr. Yusri Musa
Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Zahri Abdul Aziz
Dr. Jasmin Jalil

Heart Failure Research Program

Introduction:

The Heart Failure Research Program is a flagship research initiative at the Advanced Medical and Dental Institute (AMDI), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). It focuses on improving the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of metabolic disorders and heart failure through interdisciplinary pre-clinical and clinical research.

Objectives:

To improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of metabolic disorders and heart failure.
To bridge the gap between laboratory findings and real-world medical practice.
To develop innovative therapies, refine diagnostic tools, and explore novel mechanisms underlying cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

Collaborators:

Supported by a team of medical experts and researchers who actively conduct both pre-clinical and clinical studies.

Team Leader:

Dr. Mastura binti Mohd Sopian

Team Members:

Associate Professor Dr. Noor Khairiah binti A. Karim
Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Fatanah binti Mohamad Suhaimi
Dr. Sharifah Azdiana binti Tuan Din
Dr. Rohayu binti Hami
Dr. Ooi Cheong Hwa
Dr. Ooi Jer Ping
Dr. Teoh Soo Huat

Breast Cancer Translational Research Program at IPPT

Introduction:

Intro here..

Team Leader:

Associate Professor Dr. Rafeezul Bin Mohamed
Professor Dr. Badrul Hisham Bin Yahaya