COVID-19 Global Diaries: 'I'm a scientist fighting a pandemic of confusion and fear'
In Malaysia Dr Chai Lay Ching works hard to bring information and science-backed solutions to help the fight against the virus
In Malaysia Dr Chai Lay Ching works hard to bring information and science-backed solutions to help the fight against the virus
This pandemic has put scientists at the forefront of the response to the outbreak. While not all scientists are directly involved in the testing of coronavirus in the labs, many concerned scientists from different backgrounds and expertise areas are working from home to support the outbreak response.
As the chairperson of the Young Scientists Network I can bring together top researchers, all under the age of 40. And I'm working closely with them and my academy to bring accurate information and science-backed solutions to the public, media and policy makers. Fighting against the misinformation that causes confusion and widespread fear during this global pandemic is essential to a successful disease containment plan.
'Science-ing' from home has kept me busy and active during Malaysia's stay-at-home Movement Control Operation (MCO) period. Despite the research lab being closed, research, data analyzing and writing is carried on from home. It is interesting to experience how this global pandemic changes the way we work, teach, communicate and socialise. Despite social distancing, we continue to interact and stay connected via internet. My days are filled with virtual meetings with students, colleagues from universities and scientists from across Malaysia and abroad. Let’s work hand-in-hand to combat the Covid-19 pandemic, and for a better world tomorrow.'
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Niamh McCollum is Features Assistant at Marie Claire UK, and specialises in entertainment, female empowerment, mental health, social development and careers. Tackling both news and features, she's covered everything from the rise of feminist audio porn platforms to the latest campaigns protecting human rights.
Niamh has also contributed to our Women Who Win series by interviewing ridiculously inspiring females, including forensic scientist Ruth Morgan, Labour MP Stella Creasy and ITV’s former Home Affairs Editor Jennifer Nadel.
Niamh studied Law in Trinity College Dublin. It was after enrolling in a Law & Literature class on her year abroad in Toronto that her love of writing was reignited. In no particular order, her big likes are Caleb Followill, hoops, red wine, sea swimming, shakshuka and long train journeys.
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