Unveiling the Extraordinary: An Interview with Dr. Pei on Food Safety and Antimicrobial Resistance
Breaking Boundaries: A Journey of Research, Resilience, and Remarkable Contributions
Interviewer: Dr. Pei, could you start by telling us about your background and your current role? Who is Dr. Pei today, and what values and causes do you stand for?
Dr. Pei: I was born and raised in Malaysia and now work as a research assistant professor specializing in food safety and antimicrobial resistance. Over the years, I've been molded by a decade of academic pursuit and support from my mentors and friends. I've come to stand for gender equality, believing that as women, we must express our perspectives and demonstrate that our work is indispensable to society.
Pinnacle of Achievement:
Interviewer: What would you consider your most significant achievement to date?
Dr. Pei: My most significant achievement is my career in academia. Starting as a young student, I've been pushed beyond my comfort zone to tackle the challenges posed by food safety and antimicrobial resistance. These are pressing concerns as they can jeopardize human health when we consume contaminated food or drinks. Every research project I undertake aims to contribute positively to the well-being of our society, aligning with the principles of One Health and Global Health.
Overcoming Challenges:
Interviewer: Can you share a challenging moment in your life and how you managed to overcome it? What lessons did you learn from that experience?
Dr. Pei: One of the most challenging moments in my life was dealing with funding applications. I found myself on the verge of giving up, wondering if my aspirations were unrealistic. As the application deadline drew closer, I persevered and was ultimately rewarded with a seed grant. This experience taught me that I must be emotionally, physically, and mentally strong, as I'm the only one who can truly help myself. It reinforced the importance of never giving up.
Message to Aspiring Women:
Interviewer: What message or advice do you wish to convey to women, especially those interested in research and biotechnology?
Dr. Pei: Gender equality is paramount. I believe women must be strong and passionate, particularly in the realm of research and development. It's crucial to translate research outcomes into products or services that benefit society, be it in healthcare, education, or the food industry. In Malaysia, knowledge transfer and commercialization are still evolving, and women should play a significant role in advancing these fields. When you encounter failure, remember that new opportunities await. Try as many opportunities as you can, and you'll be amazed by the changes in your life.
The Remarkable You:
Interviewer: Why do you believe your story is remarkable, and what one thing truly defines your journey?
Dr. Pei: My story is remarkable because I'm dedicated to addressing the 21st-century global health challenge of antimicrobial resistance. I aim to make a positive impact on healthcare, food safety, and public health. The defining aspect of my journey is my passion for research. With a clear sense of purpose and life goals, I've learned that I can surpass my own expectations.
I am Remarkable Because:
Interviewer: Could you complete this sentence to express what makes you remarkable in your own words?
Dr. Pei: I am remarkable because my contributions are valued by those around me.
👩🔬 Dr. Peggy Woh Pei Yee (Principal Investigator) has been working extensively in the field of antimicrobial resistance in foodborne pathogens. She received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Malaya. She is currently a Research Assistant Professor at the Department of Food Science and Technology, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, with a strong commitment to advancing science in ASEAN and worldwide.
🤝 Explore, Connect, and Collaborate with Dr. Woh and her team here.
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