USM PENANG, 25 May 2026 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) proudly announces that Professor Dr. K. Sudesh Kumar, from the School of Biological Sciences, has been conferred the title of Honorary Doctorate by Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST), Japan.

The conferral ceremony and commemorative lecture were held at NAIST on 18 May, marking Sudesh as the seventh recipient of this prestigious recognition.

The Honorary Doctorate is awarded to scientists who have made significant contributions to NAIST’s internationalisation efforts.

Sudesh is internationally acclaimed in the fields of molecular genetics and applied research on the biosynthesis of biodegradable plastics, particularly polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA).

Since 2012, when NAIST’s Graduate School of Biological Sciences (now the Division of Biological Science) began international exchange with USM, Sudesh has played a central role in fostering academic collaboration and student recruitment.

He also served as a Visiting Professor at NAIST from 2017 to 2018, contributing greatly to the university’s international development.

In the field of biodegradable plastics research, Sudesh has actively engaged in joint projects and human resource development with NAIST faculty and students.

Over the years, he has co-authored more than 10 research papers with NAIST researchers, underscoring the depth of collaboration between the two institutions.

Recognising his outstanding achievements in academic research, international collaboration, and education, as well as his immense contributions to NAIST’s education, research, and global partnerships, the university conferred upon him the Honorary Doctorate.

NAIST President, Kazuhiro Shiozaki; Head of the NAIST Division of Biological Science, Professor Taku Demura; and Professor Emeritus Yoshiharu Doi of Tokyo Institute of Technology – a pioneer in PHA research and mentor to Sudesh –  delivered addresses before Sudesh gave a lecture entitled “From Waste to Wealth: Advancing Sustainable Biopolymer Science for a Circular Bioeconomy.”

Expressing his gratitude, Sudesh said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from NAIST. I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks to NAIST for their trust and collaboration, and to USM, especially the School of Biological Sciences and USM’s top management, for their unwavering support throughout my journey.”

“This award is a testament to the strength of our partnership and the shared vision of advancing science for the benefit of society,” he added.

This recognition not only celebrates Sudesh’s individual achievements but also highlights USM’s growing role in advancing international research collaboration and sustainable innovation.

Source: NAIST website: https://www.naist.jp/news/2026/05/011810.html /Text: Tan Ewe Hoe/Photo: Professor Dr. K. Sudesh Kumar, School of Biological Sciences, USM