On January 28, 2025,
at the Four South Board Room, 4th Floor, INC2-C Building, Thailand Science Park,
researchers from the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) welcomed Professor Emeritus Dr. Katsunori HANAMURA, Principal Fellow at the East Asia Unit (EEU) and the Center for Research and Development Strategy (CRDS), along with his delegation. Their visit aimed to foster discussions on potential collaborative research opportunities with NSTDA experts. Representing MTEC,NSTDA at the meeting were Dr. Samerkhae Jongthammanurak, Research Team Leader of the SMARTest Research Team; Dr. Bralee Chayasombat, Research Team Leader of the Material-System-Environment Research Team; Dr. Pakamard Saewong, Researcher from the Environment Research Group; and Dr. Pornpimon Boonkum, Researcher from the Sustainability and Socio-economic Assessment Research Team at the Technology and Informatics Institute for Sustainability (TIIS). The discussion was chaired by Dr. Uracha Ruktanonchai, Executive Director of the National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), who represented NSTDA’s management. Dr. Uracha provided an overview of NSTDA’s mission and activities. At the same time, Professor Emeritus Dr. HANAMURA introduced the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and its CRDS division, which was established in 2003. JST-CRDS plays a vital role in analyzing science and technology trends in Japan and globally to support the development of science, technology, and innovation (STI) policies. The agency works closely with industry, academia, and government stakeholders to fulfill its core objectives, which include (1) conducting research and analysis on emerging scientific and technological innovations, along with associated social and policy trends; (2) identifying key challenges and formulating strategic science, technology, and innovation policies as well as research and development (R&D) strategies; and (3) collaborating with relevant organizations to enhance awareness and promote policy dissemination through various media channels.
The meeting’s objective was to create a platform for exchanging updates on scientific research and innovation progress between NSTDA and Japan, specifically focusing on climate change mitigation and adaptation. The discussions explored opportunities for future collaboration, including researcher exchange programs and potential joint research project proposals for funding from JST. The programs considered included the Strategic International Collaborative Research Program (SICORP), the e-ASIA Joint Research Program, and the Sakura Science Exchange Program.
Following the discussion, the Environment Research Group hosted a visit to the Trace Elements Analysis Laboratory (TEA-Lab). Dr. Samerkhae Jongthammanurak, leader of the SMARTest Research Team, provided an overview of the lab’s work in contaminant analysis of materials. Specializing in trace element analysis, the TEA-Lab ensures compliance with RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) regulations and serves as a model laboratory supporting the expansion of standardized contaminant testing facilities across Thailand. Additionally, it functions as a technical knowledge hub, offering expertise in advancing testing methodologies and regulatory compliance.
