Natrah Fatin Mohd Ikhsan

Natrah Fatin Mohd Ikhsan is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Aquaculture at the Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), and an Associate Researcher at the Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Bioscience, UPM. She holds a Doctor of Applied Biological Sciences from Ghent University, Belgium, and has built a strong research profile in aquatic microbial ecology and aquaculture biotechnology.

• Doctor of Applied Biological Sciences, Ghent University, Belgium (2007–2011)
• Master of Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia (2004–2007)
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biology, Universiti Putra Malaysia (1999–2003)

Her research focuses on bacterial quorum sensing, probiotics, algae-bacteria interactions, and live feed in aquaculture systems. She investigates microbial communication mechanisms to develop sustainable alternatives for disease control in shrimp and fish farming. Her work bridges fundamental microbial ecology with practical applications in aquaculture health management.

Her recent publications highlight a strong trend in quorum sensing interference, antimicrobial strategies, and probiotic development for aquaculture. She explores innovative approaches such as DNA aptamers, nanoparticle-based treatments, and natural plant extracts to combat bacterial pathogens like Vibrio and Aeromonas, contributing to the advancement of sustainable and antibiotic-free aquaculture practices.

• Merdeka Award Grant for International Attachment (Petronas, ExxonMobil & Shell)
• Science Technology Research Grant 2016 (Malaysia Toray Science Foundation)

Natrah has led multiple research grants funded by Universiti Putra Malaysia and Malaysian government agencies, focusing on probiotics, quorum quenching, and disease mitigation in aquaculture. She collaborates internationally with institutions in Belgium and Japan, and her work supports the development of biotechnological tools for sustainable aquaculture productivity and food security.

She is actively involved in research within the Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology and contributes to the academic and scientific community through her publications and project leadership.