Award-winning researcher joins Engineering

Indonesian biochemical engineer Dr Penia Kresnowati will spend two years conducting stem-cell related research in Monash University's Department of Chemical Engineering after winning a prestigious UNESCO-L'oreal Fellowship for Women in Science.

Dr Kresnowati was one of 15 young women from around the world awarded a fellowship, which are worth up to $40,000 and permit the winners to conduct research at a host organisation of their choice outside their home country.

During her time at Monash, Dr Kresnowati, 31, will conduct research into the design of bioreactors for creating health products from stem cells. She will be under the supervision of Monash researchers Dr Gareth Forde and Professor Dong Chen, in cooperation with the Australian Stem Cell Centre.

Dr Kresnowati has been lecturing at the Department of Chemical Engineering, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia, and has recently finished research into optimising the production of bio-based products.

"In Monash I found a research group that conducts research in biotechnology from the engineering aspect, which matches my interests very well," Dr Kresnowati said.

"Monash University also provides an atmosphere that welcomes international researchers."
Dr Kresnowati presented a seminar on her research on the 4th of September to representatives from Loreal, Veski, students and staff.