NDMU Graduate and Undergraduate Science Students Gain Research and Innovation Exposure at Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research

Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU) continues to strengthen its internationalization initiatives through an academic and research exposure visit to the Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (TISTR), providing Master of Science in Chemistry graduate students and Bachelor of Science in Biology undergraduate students, together with their faculty and university administrators, an opportunity to learn from Thailand's scientific research and innovation practices.

The visit, held on October 27, 2026 at the TISTR focused on understanding how scientific research is conducted, supported by specialized facilities, and translated into practical innovations and technologies that respond to industry, community, and societal needs.

TISTR is a government research institution in Thailand dedicated to scientific and technological research, innovation, and the application of research findings for economic and social development. The institute undertakes research and development across various scientific fields, including biotechnology, biodiversity, herbal products, and industrial technologies. Its work emphasizes the translation of scientific discoveries into usable technologies, products, and processes, connecting laboratory research with practical applications.

The NDMU delegation was welcomed by Dr. Boonnanida Sodha, Director of the International Relations Division and Acting Director of the Office of the Governor, who delivered the welcome remarks and introduced the institute's research and innovation initiatives.

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The academic engagement featured presentations from two of TISTR's specialized research centers. Dr. Chiramet Auranwiwat, Senior Research Officer of the Expert Centre of Innovative Herbal Products (InnoHerb), presented the center's research and development activities, providing insights into the scientific processes involved in developing innovative herbal products and translating research findings into practical applications.

Meanwhile, Dr. Kanidta Niwasabutra, Senior Research Officer of the Biodiversity Research Centre (BRC), provided an overview of the center's research activities, highlighting the importance of biodiversity studies and scientific investigations in understanding and utilizing biological resources.

The presentations were followed by an interactive discussion and question-and-answer session, allowing NDMU students and faculty to engage with TISTR researchers and gain a deeper understanding of the institute's research systems, scientific methodologies, and innovation practices.

A major highlight of the visit was the laboratory and research facility exposure, which provided participants with opportunities to observe how scientific research progresses from laboratory investigation to technology development and potential practical application.

The delegation visited the InnoHerb Laboratory and the Innovative Herbal Extraction Pilot Plant, with Dr. Chiramet Auranwiwat facilitating the tours. These visits offered students a closer look at research facilities and processes involved in herbal product development, particularly the role of laboratory investigations, extraction technologies, and pilot-scale operations in advancing scientific innovations.

The delegation also toured ICPIM 2, facilitated by Dr. Tantima Kumlung, Senior Research Officer, providing further exposure to TISTR's specialized research facilities and scientific operations.

For the MS Chemistry students, the visit offered valuable perspectives on the application of chemical research in product development, extraction processes, and technology innovation. It reinforced the importance of connecting scientific theories and laboratory experiments with research outcomes that have practical value.

For the BS Biology students, the exposure strengthened their appreciation of biodiversity research, biological resources, and the application of scientific knowledge in developing research-based solutions. The experience also broadened their understanding of possible research directions and professional opportunities in scientific research institutions.

Beyond learning about specific scientific fields, the visit enabled students to appreciate the research and innovation system of TISTR—from identifying research priorities and conducting scientific investigations to developing technologies and applying research outputs. This perspective is particularly relevant in strengthening the research culture among students and encouraging them to consider the potential contribution of their research to communities, industries, and society.

The engagement also provided NDMU faculty members with opportunities to gain insights into research facility management, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the integration of applied research and innovation into science education.

As part of NDMU's internationalization initiatives, the visit supports international academic exposure, research capacity building, curriculum enrichment, and the development of stronger connections between academic institutions and scientific research organizations. It reflects the University's commitment to providing meaningful learning experiences beyond the classroom and exposing students to international standards and practices in scientific research.

More importantly, the visit highlighted a fundamental principle of scientific inquiry: research should not end with the completion of a thesis, dissertation, or laboratory experiment. Its greater value lies in how scientific knowledge can be translated into innovations, technologies, and solutions that benefit society.

Through this international learning engagement, NDMU reaffirms its commitment to developing scientifically competent, research-oriented, and socially responsive graduates who are prepared to contribute to scientific advancement, innovation, and sustainable development.