"Dr. Mak Kit Kay's academic and research profile exemplifies a remarkable blend of expertise and versatility in the field of medicinal chemistry and drug discovery. Her academic journey culminated in a PhD in Medicinal Chemistry, where she demonstrated a profound understanding of various drug discovery processes. Dr. Mak's skills are extensive and diverse, encompassing both theoretical and practical aspects of medicinal chemistry.

In the realm of computational drug discovery, Dr. Mak has shown considerable proficiency. She possesses a deep understanding of designing drug-like molecules using computational techniques and machine learning algorithms. This expertise is critical in the modern landscape of drug development, where computational methods play a pivotal role in identifying and optimizing potential therapeutic compounds.

Equally impressive is her practical knowledge in the synthesis of drug-like organic compounds. Dr. Mak is adept in both conventional and microwave-assisted synthetic methods. During her PhD, she synthesized around 100 compounds of diverse nature. This extensive hands-on experience is indicative of her ability to navigate complex chemical syntheses, an essential skill in drug discovery.

Dr. Mak's research also encompassed the testing of bioactivity of synthesized compounds, deriving structure-activity relationships, identifying molecular mechanisms, and determining pharmacokinetic properties. These activities demonstrate her comprehensive approach to medicinal chemistry, where she not only creates compounds but also understands their biological interactions and potential as therapeutic agents.

Her academic productivity is evidenced by her authorship of eight research papers during her PhD. This is a testament to her ability to contribute valuable knowledge to the scientific community and her skills in scientific communication.

Beyond her research, Dr. Mak's contributions to laboratory management and mentorship are noteworthy. She adeptly manages various research projects, oversees inventory and finances, and plays a crucial role in training both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Her guidance in experimental work and academic writing is invaluable for developing researchers.

Dr. Mak's willingness to volunteer and assist her colleagues further underscores her collaborative nature and commitment to the collective progress of scientific research. Her comprehensive skill set, encompassing both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, combined with her leadership and collaborative qualities, make her an exceptional asset to any research institution or team.

In summary, Dr. Mak Kit Kay is a distinguished researcher in medicinal chemistry, with a proven track record in computational drug design, organic synthesis, and biological testing. Her leadership in project management and mentorship, along with her collaborative spirit, greatly enriches the academic and research environment she is part of."

Nominated by Mallikarjuna Rao Pichika, Institute for Research, Development and Innovation, International Medical University, Malaysia