Khatijah, a Subject Matter Expert at the National Institutes of Biotechnology Malaysia (NIBM) and a professor at Universiti Putra Malaysia, holds key roles in various scientific organisations. Currently serving as the Vice-President of the Islamic World Academy of Sciences (IAS), member of the Council of Scientific Advisors of the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Senior Fellow of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM), and Fellow of the Malaysian Scientific Association (MSA), she brings extensive experience and influential networks to her position.
During her tenure as the Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation Malaysia (2008-2013), Khatijah played a pivotal role in shaping national science policies. Committed to translating scientific knowledge into tangible global benefits, she actively participates in international and national boards. Her research on the molecular biology of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) focuses on developing an NDV-based cancer vaccine.
Recognized with awards, including the Anugerah Tokoh Akademik Negara 2022, she was featured in DC Comics’ “Wonder Women: Wonderful Women of The World” in 2021. As the Chairman of the National Committee on Research Integrity, Khatijah continues to make significant contributions to the scientific community, emphasising perseverance and teamwork for a lasting impact.