"Yodchanan" Connects Young Thai Researchers with Global Networks at Thailand Future Research Leaders Forum 2026
19 October 2026
The National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), brought together young Thai researchers and international research leaders at the Thailand Future Research Leaders Forum 2026: “Catalysts of Impact – From Research Potential to Real-World Value,” held on 4 October 2026 in Kyoto, Japan.
Prof. Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, opened the forum and shared his vision for developing the next generation of Thai researchers. The forum focused on helping young researchers broaden their perspectives, build international connections, and translate promising research into real-world impact.
Prof. Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of MHESI, shared strategic perspectives on developing Thailand’s science, technology, research, and innovation workforce, emphasizing the importance of equipping researchers with the capabilities and international experience needed to contribute to the country’s future development.
Dr. Wiparat De-ong, Executive Director of the National Research Council of Thailand, welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for young researchers to connect with international peers, exchange experiences, and develop long-term research collaborations.
Prof. Sadayuki Tsuchiya, Executive Director of the STS forum, also expressed support for the initiative and highlighted the role of the STS forum in connecting researchers and experts from the fields of science, technology, policy, and society worldwide.
One of the forum’s highlights was the Role Model Dialogue and Role Model Talk: “Journeys to Impact,” featuring Mr. Yusuke Toyoda of Digital Grid Corporation, Dr. Yu Hiraoka of GramEye Inc., Prof. Eva Hoffmann of the University of Copenhagen, and Dr. Brendan Walsh of Yale University. Drawing on their personal journeys, the speakers shared experiences and insights into career development, international collaboration, key turning points, and how research can be translated into economic and social impact.
The forum also featured the Young Researchers’ Reflection & Future Impact Presentation, where young researchers shared lessons learned and outlined their goals for creating future research impact. Another highlight was the Mirai Catalyst Lightning Pitch, featuring Thai students in Japan who had participated in a development program focused on idea generation, interdisciplinary teamwork, and mentoring by experts.
This initiative reflects NRCT’s systematic approach to investing in people, beginning with the selection of high-potential researchers, developing their mindsets, providing opportunities to learn from international role models, organizing study visits to research institutions and private companies in Japan, and supporting participation in the STS forum. These activities aim to develop researchers who can engage internationally, build strong networks, and translate research knowledge into tangible outcomes.
“Investing in researchers is investing in one of Thailand’s key growth engines,” said Prof. Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat.
The forum reflects NRCT’s continued commitment to developing future research leaders who can connect people, disciplines, and countries, build international research networks, and translate research potential into meaningful value for Thailand’s economy and society.
