A PROFESSOR from the Ateneo de Manila University was named the Clara Y. Lim-Sylianco awardee by the Philippine Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

The award, named after the late national scientist, is given to individuals who have contributed significantly in the fields of biochemistry and molecular biology.

“This award is really for the team’s efforts over the years — for the colleagues, students, and researchers who have been sharing this journey, and the mentors who have supported and guided the team. In a special way, we thank the scholarship program and its benefactors who have provided for many members of the team,” Dr. Nina Rosario L Rojas said.

“We are deeply grateful to Ateneo for its institutional and community support for us and the science that we do. The Ateneo Biomolecular Research Group will continue to work to tap the potential of our bioresources, such as medicinal plants and biomaterials, for health and wellness and other applications,” she added.

Rojas is a faculty member and former chair of the ADMU’s Department of Chemistry. She has been a lecturer at the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health since it was founded.

Her research works include protein design and engineering, biosensors, stem-cell-based assays for regenerative medicine using biomaterials and medicinal plants.

Her team continues to look at the potential of biomaterials and medicinal plants for degenerative and chronic diseases, as well as other applications.