NRCT and Thai Society Innovation Network (TSIN) Strengthen Collaboration to Develop Thailand’s Next Generation of Researchers and Connect Global Thai Talent
21 July 2026
The National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), held a strategic discussion with the Thai Society Innovation Network (TSIN), a network of Thai students and young professionals pursuing higher education in the United Kingdom, at the Office of Educational Affairs, Royal Thai Embassy, London. The meeting focused on exploring collaborative approaches to developing support mechanisms for Thailand’s next generation of researchers and strengthening connections between Thai researchers overseas and those in Thailand to enhance the country’s long-term research and innovation capabilities.
The NRCT delegation was welcomed by Ms. Kamonwan Sattayayut, Minister (Education). During the meeting, Dr. Wiparat De-ong, Executive Director of NRCT, emphasized NRCT’s strong commitment to developing research and innovation human resources and expanding collaboration with Thai students and researchers abroad. She highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for talented Thai researchers to bring back international knowledge, experience, and professional networks to contribute to Thailand’s development, while also supporting their transition into research careers upon returning to the country.
Ms. Sirinporn Deawtrakool, Deputy Executive Director of NRCT, presented an overview of NRCT’s initiatives to strengthen engagement with Thai students and researchers overseas. Meanwhile, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Anak Khantachawana, Head of the Hub of Talent on Minimal Invasive Medical Devices and Standardization, introduced the Hub of Talent mechanism as a platform for supporting researchers and fostering collaboration. The discussion also provided an opportunity for Thai students in the United Kingdom to share their perspectives, challenges, and expectations, contributing to the design of future cooperation mechanisms tailored to the needs of emerging Thai researchers.
In addition, Ms. Katesara Ek-Udomphong, Director of the Research and Innovation Career Development and Support Group, Research and Innovation Fund Management Division 3, presented NRCT’s research funding opportunities and collaboration mechanisms. Mr. Sirichai Ruangvised, Director of the Innovation Commercialization Development Group, Research Resources Management Division, shared approaches to supporting the TSIN network, with particular emphasis on strengthening postdoctoral researchers and promoting the practical utilization and commercialization of research and innovation.
The discussion highlighted three key areas of future collaboration:
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Strengthening support mechanisms and collaborative networks for Thai researchers
Participants agreed on the importance of connecting researchers through the Hub of Talent network to provide greater access to research funding, laboratory facilities, and international collaborations. The discussion also emphasized supporting early-career researchers while fostering partnerships among government agencies, industry, and Thai researchers overseas to address global challenges and national priorities.
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Promoting intellectual property management and research utilization
The meeting underscored the need to establish clear intellectual property management frameworks from the beginning of research projects while enhancing researchers’ knowledge of intellectual property law and innovation management. These measures will facilitate effective technology transfer and the commercialization of research outcomes.
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Advancing Thailand’s strategic research agenda
Participants discussed the importance of developing a comprehensive research funding system that supports projects from fundamental research through practical application. They also proposed establishing a database of Thai students and researchers overseas to strengthen connections with highly skilled Thai talent and encourage their long-term contribution to Thailand’s science, research, and innovation ecosystem.
The meeting marked an important milestone in establishing a long-term partnership between NRCT and the Thai Society Innovation Network (TSIN). The recommendations and insights gathered during the discussion will serve as the foundation for developing practical and sustainable support mechanisms that strengthen Thailand’s research workforce, promote international collaboration, and enhance the nation’s competitiveness through science, research, and innovation.
