Professional and Personal Development Programme

 Associate Professor Dr. Sasidharan Sreenivasan (Institute for Research In Molecular Medicine)
 17.03.2026 (Tuesday)
 9.00am-12.00pm

Description:

Publishing research is a crucial milestone in every postgraduate student’s academic journey, yet the process often appears complex and overwhelming. From Alpha to Omega is a comprehensive and practical talk designed to guide postgraduate students through the entire publication pathway from manuscript preparation and journal selection to peer review, revision, acceptance, and final publication. This session breaks down each stage of the process in a clear and structured manner, helping students understand how to choose the right journal, align their manuscript with author guidelines, craft compelling cover letters, and navigate different types of peer review systems. Participants will gain insights into responding effectively to reviewer comments, managing revisions strategically, handling rejection professionally, understanding publication ethics, and avoiding predatory journals. By demystifying the submission-to-publication journey, this talk equips postgraduate students with the knowledge, confidence, and practical strategies needed to successfully publish their research and build a strong academic profile.

Take-Away:

At the end of this session, postgraduate students will walk away with a clear understanding of the complete publication process, practical tools to prepare and submit manuscripts confidently, strategies to respond to reviewers constructively, and the ability to avoid common pitfalls that delay or prevent acceptance. More importantly, they will gain the confidence to approach publication not as a daunting requirement, but as a manageable, strategic, and rewarding part of their academic career.

 Professor Dr. Ahmad Zuhairi bin Abdullah (School of Chemical Engineering)
 11 March 2026 (Wednesday)
 9.00am -11.00am

Postgraduate studies offer a valuable opportunity for academic growth, personal development, and career advancement. This lecture explores how students can maximize their postgraduate experience to achieve their career goals. It begins by examining the purpose of postgraduate studies, emphasizing knowledge enhancement, research proficiency, and career specialization. The session will highlight academic advancement, focusing on developing expertise, publishing research, and engaging in scholarly discourse. Beyond academics, personal development is crucial, as students cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience which are essential skills for professional success. Additionally, postgraduate research contributes to society by addressing real-world challenges and informing policy decisions. The lecture will also emphasize the role of professional networking and collaboration, guiding students in building relationships with mentors, peers, and industry experts to open career opportunities. For those pursuing an academic career, insights into teaching, research, and securing funding will be provided. Furthermore, the importance of lifelong learning skills, such as adaptability and continuous self-improvement, will be discussed. The session will conclude with strategies for excellence, including effective time management, research efficiency, goal setting, development of networking, professional branding, enhanced research experience, global opportunities etc. By the end of the lecture, students will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to make the most of their postgraduate studies and align them with their long-term career aspirations.

 Madam Cik Ramlah binti Che Jaafar (Hamzah Sendut Library)
 30 April 2024 (Tuesday)
 9.30 AM - 11.30 AM

Workshop details:

Topic wil cover how to identify:

• Journals according to subject
  
• Journals in indexed platform (Scopus, Web of Science, MyCite & ERA)
  
• Journals quartile, impact factor and cite score
  
• Discontinued journals in Scopus
  
• Supressed titles in Web of Science

 Professor. Dr. Lee Keat Teong (School of Chemical Engineering)
 23 April 2024 (Tuesday)
 9.00 AM - 12.00 PM

 Associate Professor Dr. Siti Rohaida Binti Mohamed Zainal (School of Management)
 29 May 2024 (Wednesday)
 9.00 am – 12.00 pm

 Dr. Siti Rahyla binti Rahmat (School of Social Sciences)
 10 May 2024  (Friday)
 9.30 am - 12.00 pm

Students will be exposed to the do's and don'ts of conducting Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Surveys, both online and face-to-face. Tips and techniques for invitations and data collection will also be shared in this training. Additionally, the training will cover how to design and conduct focus group discussions with themes.

 Profesor Dr. Lim Jit Kang (Write Facilitator's School/Centre)
 26 June 2024 (Wednesday)
 9.00am-12.00pm

Requirement: Pre-installed MS PowerPoint, MS Word, and Paint.net (https://www.getpaint.net/)

In this workshop, we will cover several key aspects related to the effective integration of graphs and images within a research manuscript. The session will begin with a brief overview of the ideal structure for incorporating graphical elements into your work, emphasizing its benefits from an editorial perspective. Following this, we will provide step-by-step guidance on preparing both Microsoft Word and Microsoft PowerPoint for the inclusion of high-resolution images while ensuring the preservation of their DPI (dots per inch) during the transfer process between software platforms. Microsoft PowerPoint will serve as our primary platform for demonstrating simple yet effective techniques for seamlessly integrating images, particularly for graphical abstract design. Furthermore, we will delve into the standard procedure for obtaining copyright permissions via RightsLink to legally reuse published images in your research manuscript. In the final segment of the workshop, we will introduce participants to the powerful freeware tool, Paint.NET, which is invaluable for image editing purposes. Through a hands-on tutorial, we will explore image overlay techniques and the process of creating time-lapsed images, providing attendees with practical skills to enhance their graphical content.

 Prof. Madya Dr. Badrul Hisham b. Yahaya (Advanced Medical and Dental Institute)
 27 June 2024 (Thursday)
 9.00 am-12.00 pm

This seminar introduces postgraduate students to the process of writing a thesis that meets the criteria expected by examiners. Dr. Badrul Hisham will offer a fresh perspective on thesis writing, covering everything from mindset preparation and negotiating with supervisors to fulfilling both supervisors' and institutional expectations. He will also explain what examiners look for in a thesis, helping students to write in a way that meets these standards.

Since Dr. Badrul Hisham is both a supervisor and an examiner of postgraduate theses, he will provide valuable insights from both perspectives. This dual perspective will help students understand the thesis writing process more thoroughly, reflecting examiners’ expectations during the evaluation.

This seminar series is a valuable guide not only for new postgraduate students but also for experienced students who wish to learn the essential components of writing a good thesis and gain a deeper understanding of what examiners consider important.

 Professor. Dr. Ahmad Zuhairi bin Abdullah (School of Chemical Engineering)
 11 June 2024 (Tuesday)
 2.15pm - 4.15pm

This talk focuses on aligning academic pursuits with professional aspirations. It addresses the need for career mapping, skill development, networking, strategic planning, and continuous professional growth. Strategies covered include internships, industry engagement, professional development initiatives, effective communication, and mentorship. This discussion aims to empower students to leverage their postgraduate studies for successful career transitions.

 Profesor Dato’ Dr Azhar Mat Easa (School of Industrial Technology)
 24 July 2024 (Wednesday)
 10.00 am - 11.30 am

This seminar is designed specifically for postgraduate students who want to cultivate a pro-innovation mindset and unlock their creative potential. Through an exploration of out-of-the-box thinking, willpower, System 1 vs. System 2 thinking, and thought processes, participants will gain valuable insights and practical strategies to drive innovation in their academic and professional pursuits.

 Associate Professor Dr. Ch’ng Kean Sian
 17 July 2024 (Wednesday)
 10.00 am - 12.00 pm

The workshop intends to introduce the experimental research method to the students from Social Sciences.

 Associate Professor Muhamad Saiful Bahri Yusoff (School of Medical Sciences)
 28 August 2024 (Wednesday)
 9.30a.m - 12.30p.m

EQ is the individual ability to perceive, express, understand, motivate, control & regulate his or her own emotions and social relations, and think and act constructively to adapt himself or herself to the environment. This interactive and hands-on online session will guide participants to explore EQ dimensions by self-assessing their EQ level. Subsequently, they will reflect on potential strategies to develop their EQ skills based on self-assessment and evidence.

 Professor Ir. Dr. Taksiah A Majid (School of Civil Engineering) 
 22 August 2024 (Thursday)
  10.00a.m - 11.00a.m 

The topic aims to guide postgraduate students at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), the sole APEX university in Malaysia, towards realizing their full potential and contributing significantly to the institution's mission and vision. The key areas addressed include: Postgraduate at USM, Postgraduate Contribution to USM's Mission and Vision, The Perspective of Your Supervisor, Scenario as a Postgraduate, Attributes of a Good Postgraduate and Preparing Postgraduates for VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) world and preparing postgraduate students to thrive in such an environment. Through addressing these topics, the presentation seeks to inspire and equip postgraduate students to maximize their academic and professional potential during their

 Professor Dr. Lee Keat Teong (School of Chemical Engineering)
 14 August 2024 (Wednesday)
 9.00a.m - 12.00p.m

During my talk, I will share with you my experience on publication in reputable international peer reviewed journals as an author for more than the last 20 years and also as an Editor to a WoS Q1 journal for the last 10 years. Hopefully, I will be able to give you pointers that can help you in your academic publication endeavors. 

 Associate Professor Dr. Sasidharan A/L Sreenivasan (Institute for Research In Molecular Medicine)
 12 September 2024 (Thursday)
 9.30am-12.30pm

Master the art of crafting a compelling discussion for publication with our step-by-step guide. Learn how to interpret results, connect findings to existing research, and highlight implications effectively. This practical approach ensures your discussion is engaging and valuable, enhancing your chances of successful publication.

 Madam Cik Ramlah Che Jaafar (Hamzah Sendut Library)
 5 September 2024 (Thursday)
 9.00am-12.00pm

Workshop details:
Topic wil cover how to identify:
•    Journals according to subject
•    Journals in indexed platform (Scopus, Web of Science, MyCite & ERA)
•    Journals quartile, impact factor and cite score
•    Discontinued journals in Scopus
•    Supressed titles in Web of Science

 Associate Professor Dr. Siti Rohaida Binti Mohamed Zainal (School of Management)
 16 October 2024 (Wednesday)
 9.00am-12.00pm

A strong research proposal is essential for securing approval and support for your research work. It serves as a roadmap, outlining your research question, objectives, methodology, and the significance of your study. To craft a compelling proposal, start with a clear and concise introduction that highlights the research problem and its relevance.

 Dr. Mansour Amini (School of Languages, Literacies and Translation)
 17 October 2024 (Thursday)
 9.00am-12.00pm

This workshop provides an in-depth exploration of the three main research designs: qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods. Participants will gain a clear understanding of the principles underlying each approach, including when and how to use them effectively in research. The session will cover the philosophical foundations, methodological considerations, and practical applications, helping researchers choose the most appropriate design for their studies.

 Dr. Rahyla binti Rahmat (School of Social Sciences)
 24 October 2024 (Thursday)
 9.00am-12.00pm

 Associate Profesor Dr. Badrul Hisham b. Yahaya(Advanced Medical and Dental Institute)
 21 November 2024 (Thursday)
 9.00am-12.00pm

Are you a postgraduate student navigating the thesis writing process? In my talk, I'll explore key insights from my experience as an academic examiner, offering practical advice to help you transform your thesis into a compelling piece of academic work. Building on the core themes of my work, Thesis Writing and Examiners' Expectations, this discussion is tailored for both new and experienced postgraduate students. I’ll highlight the essential components of a well-structured thesis and provide a deep dive into what examiners look for, ensuring you're prepared to meet and exceed their expectations. From selecting the right topic to crafting research questions, conducting literature reviews, presenting strong arguments, and drawing meaningful conclusions, this session will equip you with the tools needed to produce a thesis that stands out. Join me to gain valuable insights into the mind of an examiner and unlock the strategies to master your thesis journey with confidence!

 Dr. Mansour Amini (School of Languages, Literacies and Translation)
 6 November 2024 (Wednesday)
 9.00am-12.00pm

This comprehensive workshop series guides participants through the essential stages of crafting a strong research proposal in three Parts. In Part 1, participants will learn how to write a compelling introduction that clearly defines the background, research problem, research questions and objectives, hypotheses, significance of the study, and operational definitions.

 Prof. Madya Dr. Ch'ng Kean Siang (School of Social Sciences)
 25 February 2025 (Tuesday)
 10.00am-12.00pm

The workshop intends to introduce the experimental research method to the students from Social Sciences.

 Professor Dr. Ahmad Zuhairi bin Abdullah (School of Chemical Engineering)
 26 February 2025 (Thursday)
 2.30pm - 4.30pm

This talk is essential for students facing their thesis defense. This talk provides crucial guidance, emphasizing the importance of preparation, building confidence, and effective communication. It addresses common pitfalls, helps students understand examiner expectations, and offers tips on managing post-viva outcomes. By reducing anxiety, promoting comprehensive preparation, and enhancing professional development, the talk equips students to navigate the viva voce examination successfully and transition to the next phase of their academic or professional journey.

 Prof. Dr. Ahmad Zuhairi bin Abdullah (School of Chemical Engineering)
 12 March 2025 (Wednesday)
 10.00am-12.00pm

Postgraduate studies offer a valuable opportunity for academic growth, personal development, and career advancement. This lecture explores how students can maximize their postgraduate experience to achieve their career goals. It begins by examining the purpose of postgraduate studies, emphasizing knowledge enhancement, research proficiency, and career specialization. The session will highlight academic advancement, focusing on developing expertise, publishing research, and engaging in scholarly discourse. Beyond academics, personal development is crucial, as students cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience which are essential skills for professional success. Additionally, postgraduate research contributes to society by addressing real-world challenges and informing policy decisions. The lecture will also emphasize the role of professional networking and collaboration, guiding students in building relationships with mentors, peers, and industry experts to open career opportunities. For those pursuing an academic career, insights into teaching, research, and securing funding will be provided. Furthermore, the importance of lifelong learning skills, such as adaptability and continuous self-improvement, will be discussed. The session will conclude with strategies for excellence, including effective time management, research efficiency, goal setting, development of networking, professional branding, enhanced research experience, global opportunities etc. By the end of the lecture, students will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to make the most of their postgraduate studies and align them with their long-term career aspirations.

 Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sasidharan Sreenivasan (Institute for Research In Molecular Medicine)
 5 March 2025 (Wednesday)
 9.30am -12.30pm

In this engaging talk tailored for postgraduate students, we will explore how to write a compelling and insightful discussion section that captures the attention of high-impact journals. The session will provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to structuring your discussion, highlighting key strategies for presenting your findings in a clear and compelling manner. Topics covered will include linking results to existing literature, addressing limitations, and suggesting avenues for future research. Attendees will learn practical techniques for crafting a discussion that not only showcases the significance of their work but also aligns with the expectations of prestigious journals. By the end of this session, you’ll be equipped with the tools to elevate your manuscript and make a lasting impact on your field.

 Dr. Mansour Amini (School of Languages, Literacies & Translation)
 29 April 2025 (Tuesday)
 9.00 am-12.00 pm

Effective communication is key to successful research dissemination. This workshop focuses on improving participants' technical English skills, with an emphasis on clarity, precision, and conciseness in research writing. Topics include structuring academic papers, using appropriate language and style, and avoiding common pitfalls in grammar and syntax. Participants will engage in hands-on exercises to enhance their writing abilities, making their research more impactful and accessible.

 Professor Dr. Lim Jit Kang (School of Chemical Engineering)
 15 April 2025 (Tuesday)
 9.00 am-12.00 pm

In this workshop, we will cover several key aspects related to the effective integration of graphs and images within a research manuscript. The session will begin with a brief overview of the ideal structure for incorporating graphical elements into your work, emphasizing its benefits from an editorial perspective. Following this, we will provide step-by-step guidance on preparing both Microsoft Word and Microsoft PowerPoint for the inclusion of high-resolution images while ensuring the preservation of their DPI (dots per inch) during the transfer process between software platforms. Microsoft PowerPoint will serve as our primary platform for demonstrating simple yet effective techniques for seamlessly integrating images, particularly for graphical abstract design. Furthermore, we will delve into the standard procedure for obtaining copyright permissions via RightsLink to legally reuse published images in your research manuscript. In the final segment of the workshop, we will introduce participants to the powerful freeware tool, Paint.NET, which is invaluable for image editing purposes. Through a hands-on tutorial, we will explore image overlay techniques and the process of creating time-lapsed images, providing attendees with practical skills to enhance their graphical content

 Prof. Dr. Ahmad Zuhairi bin Abdullah (School of Chemical Engineering)
 9 April 2025 (Wednesday)
 2.30 pm-4.30 pm

This speech aims to equip postgraduate students with essential knowledge and strategies to publish their research in reputable journals successfully. It will cover the different types of journal articles, such as original research papers, review articles, and short communications, to help students determine the best format for their work. The session will also define high-impact publications, explaining key metrics like impact factor, citation counts, and indexing databases. The speech will introduce practical approaches and tools for selecting the right journal to enhance the chances of acceptance. This includes the use of online search tools such as Journal Finder (Elsevier), Springer Journal Suggester, Wiley Journal Finder, and Scopus and Web of Science databases, which provide key information on journal scope, impact, and acceptance rates. The session will also offer tips and tricks to tailor manuscripts to suit targeted journals, maximizing the likelihood of publication. Additionally, students will learn how to identify and avoid predatory journals, ensuring ethical and informed publishing choices. The ultimate goals of this talk are to help students increase their chances of acceptance, gain the most benefits from their publications, and enhance the impact of their research through strategic journal selection and effective manuscript preparation.

 Associate Professor Dr. Siti Rohaida Binti Mohamed Zainal (School of Management)
 21 May 2025 (Wednesday)
 9.00 am-12.00 pm

This topic emphasizes the journey of transforming a research idea into a well-structured and impactful proposal. It covers key elements such as identifying a compelling research problem, setting clear objectives, conducting a literature review, designing a suitable methodology, and demonstrating the potential significance of the study. A strong research proposal should not only showcase originality and feasibility but also clearly communicate the value and expected contribution of the research to the field or society.

 Dr. Mansour Amini (School of Languages, Literacies & Translation)
 6 May 2025 (Tuesday)
 9.00 am-12.00 pm

This talk offers an overview of key elements in educational research, focusing on research paradigms, design strategies, and methodological approaches. Participants will explore major worldviews—postpositivism, constructivism, transformative, and pragmatism—and examine how these philosophical stances influence research questions and methods. The session covers various research designs, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods, emphasizing the alignment between research problems and design choices. It also introduces essential data collection techniques, sampling strategies, ethical considerations, and analysis methods. Through interactive discussions and case study analyses, this talk will equip attendees with foundational knowledge and practical insights to design coherent, ethical, and impactful research in educational settings.

 Professor Dr. Hajar Abdul Rahim (School of Humanities)
 18 June 2025 (Wednesday)
 9.00 am-12.00 pm

Publishing in reputable journals is a vital aspect of academic life, as it not only disseminates original research findings but also strengthens the author’s credibility and advances their field of study. The publication process involves a series of important steps that researchers must understand to successfully share their work. This seminar on writing for scholarly publication is designed to guide researchers through the key aspects of academic publishing, namely what to publish, why it matters, and how to navigate the process effectively. The session will also feature a Q&A segment, offering participants the chance to discuss their publication challenges and obtain practical insights into the publishing landscape.

 Profesor Dr. Chong Shu Chien @ Alexander (School of Biological Sciences)
 17 June 2025 (Thursday)
 2.30 pm - 4.30 pm

Giving a memorable scientific talk isn’t just about sharing data—it’s about telling a story that sticks. In this session, you’ll learn practical steps to transform your research into a clear, compelling presentation that engages your audience from start to finish. Whether you’re presenting at a conference or defending your thesis, this talk will help you speak with confidence, clarity, and impact.

 Prof. Dr. Andrew Tan Khee Guan (School of Social Sciences)
 18 July 2025 (Friday)
 9.00 am-11.00 am

The “PhD Finish Line” refers to the final stages of the doctoral program as the candidate completes the dissertation and prepares for the viva voce. Tips and guidance on writing the final chapters (Chapter 4 Results & Chapter 5 Discussion and Conclusion) will be provided. Key stages at the finish line, including the final drafts and revisions, formatting and submission timelines, and preparation and what to expect for the viva voce will be discussed.

 Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siti Rohaida Mohamed Zainal (School of Management)
 16 July 2025 (Wednesday)
 9.00 am-12.00 pm

This session focuses on how to interpret and analyses the research findings in relation to the study’s objectives and research questions. Moving beyond the presentation of results, it explores underlying patterns, unexpected outcomes, and their implications within the broader theoretical and practical context. By connecting data to meaning, this chapter offers critical insights, explains the significance of the findings, and lays the foundation for informed conclusions and future recommendations.

 Professor Dr. Lee Keat Teong (School of Chemical Engineering)
 9 July 2025 (Wednesday)
 9.00 am-12.00 pm

During my talk, I will share with you my experience on publication in reputable international peer reviewed journals as an author for more than the last 20 years and also as an Editor to a WoS Q1 journal for the last 10 years. Hopefully, I will be able to give you pointers that can help you in your academic publication endeavors.

 Profesor Dr. Hazwan Hussin (School of Chemical Sciences)
 22 August 2025 (Friday)
 9.30am-11.30am

This dynamic online workshop is designed to equip graduate students and researchers with the skills and confidence needed to excel in their thesis or dissertation oral defense. Participants will learn how to effectively structure their presentation, anticipate and respond to challenging questions, and project confidence under pressure. Through practical strategies and interactive exercises, attendees will turn rigorous preparation into a compelling performance that communicates clarity, expertise, and academic authority.

 Profesor Dr. Badrul Hisham b. Yahaya (Advanced Medical and Dental Institute)
 13 August 2025 (Wednesday)
 9.00am-12.00pm

This talk explores the vital role of the supervisor–student relationship in shaping the postgraduate research experience. A strong partnership built on trust, communication, and mutual respect can significantly enhance research quality, student well-being, and academic success. Through engaging discussions, real-world scenarios, and guided reflections, participants will learn how to navigate different supervision styles, set clear expectations, manage conflicts, and cultivate habits for proactive research progress. The session also highlights the importance of institutional support and provides tools for students to assess and strengthen their working relationships with supervisors. Designed to be interactive and reflective, this session empowers postgraduate students to take ownership of their academic journey and build collaborative, productive, and respectful partnerships with their supervisors.

 Madam Cik Ramlah binti Che Jaafar (Hamzah Sendut Library)
 30 September 2025 (Tuesday)
 9.00am-12.00pm

Topic will cover how to identify:

•    Journals according to subject

•    Journals in indexed platform (Scopus, Web of Science, MyCite & ERA)

•    Journals quartile, impact factor and cite score

•    Discontinued journals in Scopus

•    Supressed titles in Web of Science

 Dr. Siti Rahyla binti Rahmat (School of Social Sciences)
 24 September 2025 (Wednesday)
 9.30 am-12.00pm

In this talk series, participants will be given some scenarios to evaluate themselves if they are OK or vice versa. Participant will learn grounding techniques, the importance of connect with nature and deep breathing exercises for stress relief. Participants will also learn mindfulness technique such as how to do journaling and reflections every day. Participant will also learn how to plan their research journey within time and budget limitation.

 Dr. Mansour Amini (School of Languages, Literacies & Translation)
 9 September 2025 (Tuesday)
 9.00am-12.00pm

This talk is designed to equip postgraduate students with essential knowledge and skills for responsible academic writing and successful research publication. The session begins by exploring the foundations of ethical academic writing, including key principles of academic integrity, common forms of misconduct, citation practices, and how to interpret similarity reports effectively. Participants will also be introduced to tools and strategies for maintaining originality and avoiding unintentional plagiarism. The second part focuses on the transition from thesis to publishable paper, addressing structural differences, journal selection strategies, and how to meet editorial expectations with clarity and scholarly rigour. In the final segment, participants will learn best practices for navigating the publication process, including authorship ethics, responding to reviewer feedback, and recognizing predatory journals. The talk concludes with a Q&A session, providing an open space for discussion, reflection, and experience-sharing.

 Professor Dr. Hajar Abdul Rahim (School of Humanities)
 14 October 2025 (Tuesday)
 9.30am-12.30pm

Publishing in reputable journals is essential for sharing research, building credibility, and advancing knowledge. Yet for many researchers, the process can feel overwhelming and unclear. This seminar offers practical guidance on every stage of academic publishing from selecting suitable journals to navigating submission systems, peer review, and revisions. Participants will learn how to evaluate high-impact, specialised, and open-access journals by considering their scope, audience, and requirements, as well as the hallmarks of effective scholarly writing, including clarity, coherence, originality, and disciplinary alignment. By addressing the key questions of what to publish, why it matters, and how to approach the process strategically, the session equips researchers with the skills and confidence to turn their findings into successful publications. A dedicated Q&A segment will provide further opportunities to discuss challenges and gain practical insights into the publishing landscape.

 Professor Dr. Chong Shu Chien @ Alexander (School of Biological Sciences)
 23 October 2025 (Thursday)
 2.30pm-4.30 pm

Giving a memorable scientific talk isn’t just about sharing data—it’s about telling a story that sticks. In this session, you’ll learn practical steps to transform your research into a clear, compelling presentation that engages your audience from start to finish. Whether you’re presenting at a conference or defending your thesis, this talk will help you speak with confidence, clarity, and impact.

 Associate Professor Dr. Sasidharan Sreenivasan (Institute for Research In Molecular Medicine)
 6 November 2025 (Thursday)
 9.00am-12.00pm

Description: This focused workshop is designed specifically for postgraduate students who are preparing to submit their research to high-impact journals and want to master the art of writing a strong, publication-worthy discussion section. Often considered the most critical and challenging part of a scientific paper, the discussion is where authors must interpret results, establish relevance, and position their work within the broader scholarly context. Through a step-by-step approach, participants will learn how to clearly articulate the significance of their findings, compare results with existing literature, address limitations thoughtfully, and construct a logical, compelling narrative that aligns with journal expectations. The session will also cover common mistakes to avoid, strategies for critical self-review, and practical tips to meet the standards of top-tier peer-reviewed journals. Whether you’re drafting your first manuscript or revising a rejected one, this workshop will give you the confidence and skills needed to craft a powerful discussion section that enhances your chances of publication success.

 Dr. Fam Pei Shan (School of Mathematics)
 18 November 2025 (Tuesday)
 9.30am-12.30pm

Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) is one of the most widely used statistical techniques in research for comparing group means and testing hypotheses. This workshop aims to provide postgraduate students with a solid understanding of the concepts, assumptions, and interpretations underlying ANOVA. Participants will learn how to choose the appropriate ANOVA model, perform the analysis using statistical software, and interpret the results effectively in the context of real research scenarios.

 Associate Professor Dr. Siti Rohaida Binti Mohamed Zainal (School of Management)
 11 November 2025 (Tuesday)
 9.00am-12.00pm

Many researchers struggle with proposal writing due to issues in focus, structure, and alignment between key sections. Common mistakes include having a topic that is too broad, an unclear problem statement, objectives that do not align with the methodology, and a literature review that merely summarizes rather than analyzes past studies. To avoid these pitfalls, researchers should ensure that each section of the proposal is well connected and logically structured. A clearly defined problem, specific objectives, and appropriate research methods will make the proposal more coherent, convincing, and academically sound.

 Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sasidharan Sreenivasan (Institute for Research In Molecular Medicine)
 24 February 2026 (Day of this workshop)

 9.00am - 12.00pm

This workshop is designed for postgraduate students to strengthen their understanding of academic integrity and originality in research writing. Participants will explore what constitutes plagiarism in academic work, including text, images, and data, and learn best practices for proper citation, paraphrasing, and ethical use of sources. The session will also introduce modern digital tools used to detect textual and visual similarity, helping students evaluate and improve the originality of their academic submissions before final submission.

Key Takeaways:

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

-Clearly identify different forms of plagiarism in academic research

-Apply effective paraphrasing and citation techniques to maintain originality

-Understand ethical standards for using text, images, and visual materials

-Use modern plagiarism and similarity-checking tools confidently and responsibly

-Improve the quality, credibility, and integrity of their postgraduate research work