Zohrah Sulaiman

Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman is a Bruneian ichthyologist and professor, currently serving as the vice-chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB). In 2006, she discovered three new species of Gastromyzon fish in the Temburong River: Gastromyzon aeroides, Gastromyzon cranbrooki, and Gastromyzon venustus. Her research focuses on molecular genetics and biodiversity, with significant contributions to ichthyology, including the identification of new fish and mussel species. Additionally, she holds patents related to biodiesel production from local paddy varieties.

Early life and education In 1987, Zohrah graduated with a BSc Tech (Hons) in applied biology from the University of Wales Institute of Science and Technology in Cardiff. She then graduated in 1988 with an MSc in food science from the University of Reading. Later, in 1994, she received a PhD in genetics from the University of Southampton.

Career In 1988, she started working as a school teacher, and in 1989, she enrolled in Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD). After that, became Deputy Vice-Chancellor at UBD. In 2013, she moved to UTB, where she was named Vice-Chancellor in 2015. She is the recipient of the ASEAN Science and Technology Meritorious Service Medal and the ASAIHL Fellowship. In order to improve student exchanges, academic partnerships, and cybersecurity measures in Brunei, UTB and ITPSS signed a MoU on 20 March 2023, with her playing a significant role in the signing. In her capacity as deputy chairperson, she welcomed a group from the Konsortium Universiti Universitas Borneo (KUUB) on 23 January 2024, to talk about upcoming joint initiatives that supports talent development, innovation, and education among Borneo universities.

Selected works

Personal life Zohrah is married to Kassim bin Haji Daud, and they have a son together.