Grooming the Next Generation of Research Leaders at UNITEN
10 September 2026
Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) organised the Grooming the Next Research Leader workshop on 10 September 2026 to develop emerging research leaders and equip participants with practical guidance on pursuing TechnoFund and international research funding opportunities.
The workshop featured Prof. Ir. Dr. Vigna Kumaran, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research & Innovation), who shared insights on effective leadership and setting strategic direction. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhamad Mansor, Managing Director of UNITEN R&D Sdn. Bhd. (URND), contributed his experience in managing research initiatives and leading teams.
Representatives from Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), including Ts. Dr. Hassan Mohamed, Ms. Noor Azlin and Ms. Shuhada Abdullah, provided practical guidance on TechnoFund applications. Assoc. Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Nurul Asyikin Mohamed Radzi, Head of Research Grants at the Research Excellence Centre (REC), shared approaches to identifying and securing international research grants.
The session emphasised the importance of confidence, strategic thinking and collaboration in developing effective research leaders. Participants were encouraged to apply the insights gained to strengthen their proposals, lead impactful projects and pursue new opportunities for institutional and international partnerships.
