Curtin Malaysia postgraduates conduct environmental research in Japan with prestigious grants

Miri, Sarawak – 23 August 2025 – Two postgraduate researchers from Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) have recently completed advanced research placements in Japan after being awarded competitive research grants from Ehime University’s Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), one of Asia’s leading institutes for environmental science.

PhD candidate Audrey Primus and Master of Philosophy (MPhil) student Upeksha Gayangani Jayasekara Polwaththe Gedara spent several months at CMES, where they conducted laboratory work alongside internationally recognised experts in environmental chemistry. The research opportunities were made possible through longstanding collaborations between Curtin Malaysia and Ehime University.

Audrey’s placement focused on tackling microplastic pollution in the Rajang River in Sibu, Sarawak. Under the mentorship of Associate Professor Tomoya Kataoka, she applied cutting-edge identification techniques, analysed samples using advanced equipment, and compared her Malaysian findings with global datasets to build a comprehensive picture of microplastic pollution.

Upeksha, under the guidance of Associate Professor Rumi Tanoue, investigated the biodegradation of pharmaceutical compounds using microbial strains. Her research explored how specific microbes can break down persistent pollutants into less harmful substances – a potential breakthrough for sustainable water treatment technologies.

Both students are supervised at Curtin Malaysia by Professor Tony Hadibarata and Dr. Muhammad Noor Hazwan bin Jusoh, who emphasised that the placements demonstrate Curtin Malaysia’s strong international research linkages.

“Having our students conduct research at CMES is a testament to the global relevance of their work,” Professor Hadibarata said. “The opportunity to collaborate with world-leading scientists allows them to sharpen their expertise and contribute meaningful solutions to environmental challenges that affect us all.”

“Curtin University is committed to developing the next generation of researchers who can address complex real-world issues, from microplastics to pharmaceutical waste. Audrey and Upeksha’s experiences in Japan will amplify the impact of their research across local and international contexts,” he added.

The research placements underscore Curtin Malaysia’s growing role in international scientific collaboration and its mission to prepare researchers who can address the urgent environmental challenges of today.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

Audrey (right) with Associate Professor Tomoya Kataoka (left) during her research at CMES.

Associate Professor Rumi Tanoue (left) mentoring Upeksha (right) in her laboratory work.