Universiti Malaya – Wales

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Dr Ong Chong Boon

Dr Ong Chong Boon is a Senior Lecturer at the School of Science and Psychology, where he teaches over 14 undergraduate and postgraduate modules.

His primary research interests focus and actively work on biocatalysis and enzyme technology. Since his PhD, he has been working on the potential application of immobilized tannase enzyme in elevating the antioxidative potential of green tea extracts.

  • PhD (Biotechnology)
  • MSc (Biotechnology)
  • BSc (Industrial Biology)
  • P.Tech (Biotechnology)

Areas of Specialisation

Biocatalysis, Enzyme Technology, Fermentation Technology

Q&A

What got you interested in biotechnology?

I love to study complex interactions within a biological system.

What do you think makes a career in biotechnology a good choice?

Biotechnology is moving faster than ever, using living organisms or the products of living organisms for human benefit (or to benefit human surroundings) – that is, to make a product or solve a problem. It was the biotechnology industry that responded to the SARS-CoV-2 virus with vaccines and antiviral drugs; so you can see how critical advancement in this industry has become.

Tell us about some of your past or current research.

My primary research interests focus and actively work on biocatalysis/biotransformation/bioconversion and enzyme technology. Since my PhD, I have been working on the potential application of immobilized tannase enzyme in elevating the antioxidative potential of green tea extract. The improved antioxidant activities of green tea extract can be exploited as a dietary supplement in foods and beverages or nutraceutical applications. Many aspects of the tannase-mediated biotransformation remained to be addressed, providing opportunities for highly vibrant and intense research endeavours e.g., the chemistry of biotransformation, fundamentals of the reaction, efficient biotransformation reactor design, cell lines and pharmacokinetics studies, controlled trial in human subjects for specific disorders etc. With all the above in mind, my aim is to exploit enzyme-treated green tea extract as a dietary supplement in foods and beverages, much sought after as a high-value commodity in the well-being industries

What do you love about teaching, and why?

I like to share knowledge with students; at the same time, they teach us new things.

What’s the best piece of advice you give to your students?

Keep reading, keep playing, keep talking, and keep learning.