Choo Wee Sim

This PhD project at Monash University Malaysia offers an exciting opportunity to conduct advanced research on the comprehensive lipid profiling of microalgae for nutraceutical applications. The research aims to identify high-value compounds such as fatty acids, prenols, sterols, and other bioactives using state-of-the-art analytical techniques. By linking lipid composition to health benefits, the project supports targeted strain selection and the development of sustainable, microalgae-derived nutraceutical products. The project is supervised by Dr Lee Yee Ying (main supervisor), Associate Professor Choo Wee Sim, and Dr Charanjit Kaur, all based in the School of Science. The research environment provides access to modern laboratory facilities and a collaborative academic community focused on biochemistry, biotechnology, applied chemistry, industrial chemistry, pharmaceutical chemistry, chemical engineering, and food production. Successful applicants will be awarded the Graduate Research Excellence Scholarship (GRES), which includes a full tuition fee waiver and a monthly stipend for up to 3 years and 6 months. To be eligible, candidates must hold a First Class Honours (H1) degree or its equivalent (H1E) recognized by Monash University Malaysia and meet the university's English language requirements. Applicants with backgrounds in biochemistry, chemistry, biotechnology, or related fields are encouraged to apply. The application process involves contacting the main supervisor with your academic background and achievements to determine suitability for the project. If you are a good fit, you will be invited to submit an Expression of Interest (EoI) with a research proposal relevant to the project. Eligible candidates will be invited to apply for PhD candidature and may be selected for a scholarship interview, typically held in October 2025. The scholarship remains open until filled, and updated application instructions will be available from May 2026. This position is ideal for candidates interested in the intersection of microalgae research, lipidomics, and nutraceutical development, with strong institutional support and comprehensive funding.

This PhD project at Monash University Malaysia focuses on the comprehensive lipid profiling of microalgae to identify high-value compounds for nutraceutical applications. Leveraging advanced analytical techniques, the research aims to characterize fatty acids, prenols, sterols, and other bioactive molecules, linking their composition to potential health benefits. The outcomes are expected to support targeted strain selection and product development for sustainable, microalgae-derived nutraceuticals. The project is supervised by Dr. Lee Yee Ying (main supervisor), Associate Professor Choo Wee Sim, and Dr. Charanjit Kaur, all from the School of Science. The research areas span biochemistry, biotechnology, applied chemistry, industrial chemistry, pharmaceutical chemistry, chemical engineering, and food production, making it ideal for candidates with strong backgrounds in these fields. Successful applicants will be awarded the Graduate Research Excellence Scholarship (GRES), which provides a full tuition fee waiver and a monthly stipend for up to 3 years 6 months. To be eligible, candidates must hold a First Class Honours (H1) or its equivalence (H1E) recognised by Monash University Malaysia and meet the English language requirements. Applications are accepted year-round. Prospective students are encouraged to first contact the main supervisor with their academic background and achievements to determine suitability for the project. If a good fit is established, candidates should submit their application via the provided link, referencing the research topic as advertised. Additional information about scholarships and the application process can be found in the application submission guide. This opportunity offers a unique blend of fundamental and applied research, with direct relevance to the growing field of nutraceuticals and sustainable food production. The project is well-funded and provides a supportive academic environment for motivated students interested in microalgae, lipid chemistry, and health-related applications.