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Category: Top news

News about research or outstanding research activities.

  • Walailak University Hosts WRC 2025 on “The Roles of Higher Education in Driving Sustainability and Blue Carbon”

    Walailak University Hosts WRC 2025 on “The Roles of Higher Education in Driving Sustainability and Blue Carbon”

    On March 27, 2025, Walailak University, led by the Institute for Research and Innovation Development, organized the international academic conference Walailak Research Convention 2025 (WRC 2025) under the theme “The Roles of Higher Education in Driving Sustainability and Blue Carbon” at Thaiburi Meeting Room, Walailak University.

    The opening ceremony was presided over by Dr. Surachai Satitkunarat, Director of the Office of the Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO), while Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University, welcomed participants. The conference brought together over 50 scholars and researchers from more than 20 countries, including the United States, Japan, Germany, India, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, France, the United Kingdom, China, New Zealand, the Netherlands, the Philippines, Australia, Turkey, Bangladesh, South Korea, Brunei, and Thailand, to exchange knowledge and ideas.

    Highlights of WRC 2025 included:

    • Keynote Lecture: “The Role of Higher Education in Sustainability & Blue Carbon”

    • Special Panel Discussion: “Higher Education and Global Sustainability” featuring distinguished academics from top universities such as the University of Malaya (Malaysia), Birmingham City University (UK), Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology (Japan), and Walailak University (Thailand).

    • Special Session: “Reinventing University” and collaborations on Sustainability and Blue Carbon research, chaired by Associate Professor Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice President of Walailak University.

    The conference also featured over ten parallel sessions covering key research topics, including:
    ✅ Sustainability & Blue Carbon
    ✅ Green & Blue Innovation
    ✅ Disaster Management
    ✅ Food & Health Science

    WRC 2025 was held to commemorate the 33rd anniversary of Walailak University. The event provided a public platform for presenting research, exchanging knowledge, and fostering national and international research collaborations.
  • Workshop on “Using SPSS for Research”

    Workshop on “Using SPSS for Research”

    On 12 March 2025, the Institute of Research and Innovation for Excellence (IRIE), Walailak University, organized a workshop on “Statistics for Research Using SPSS” at ST207 LabCom, Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong (ST) Building, Walailak University.

    The objective of this workshop was to enhance participants’ knowledge and understanding of data analysis and statistical interpretation using SPSS, as well as to equip them with the skills to effectively apply these methods in their research.

    The training was honored by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wanida Limmuan, lecturer from the School of Science, who served as the speaker. A total of 52 participants attended the workshop.
  • Research Promotion Activity: “Techniques for Writing Social Science Research Articles – Developing Research with ChatGPT”

    Research Promotion Activity: “Techniques for Writing Social Science Research Articles – Developing Research with ChatGPT”

    On 27 February 2025, the  Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence (IRIE), Walailak University, organized a research promotion activity on “Techniques for Writing Social Science Research Articles: Developing Research with ChatGPT” at Hua Taphan Meeting Room, 3rd Floor, Chulabhorn Hospital Building, Walailak University Medical Center.

    The event was honored by Asst. Prof. Dr. Thanaphat Detphawutikhun, Acting Associate Dean of the School of Liberal Arts, who delivered a lecture on “Inspiration and Techniques for Writing Social Science Research Articles,” providing valuable insights to enhance the research capacity of faculty and researchers.

    In addition, Asst. Prof. Dr. Nichnan Kittipattanabovorn, Assistant to the President, gave a lecture on “Generative AI and the Use of ChatGPT in Research.” Her talk highlighted concepts of Generative AI, practical approaches to using ChatGPT, ethical considerations in AI utilization, as well as demonstrations of effective prompt writing to support the research process.

    This activity aimed to encourage faculty members and researchers to exchange experiences in academic writing, while also exploring the integration of AI tools to enhance the quality and impact of research publications.
  • Walailak University Holds the 2nd Meeting of the Research Steering Committee for Fiscal Year 2025

    Walailak University Holds the 2nd Meeting of the Research Steering Committee for Fiscal Year 2025

    On Friday, 21 February 2025, from 9.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m., the Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence, Walailak University, organized the 2nd Meeting of the Research Steering Committee. The meeting was chaired by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice President of Walailak University.

    During the meeting, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wichitpan Rorngwong, Acting Director of the Research and Innovation Institute of Excellence, presented upcoming activities to support the publication of research articles by Walailak University faculty members. These initiatives aim to provide guidance and encouragement for lecturers to further develop their academic works for future publications.

    The meeting also followed up on the progress of external research grant applications and the advancement of individual research grants awarded to faculty members across schools. Research center heads and representatives from each school and college reported their plans to promote research activities and external grant applications. The session provided an opportunity to exchange information and strategies, fostering integration and strengthening collaborative mechanisms among schools within the university.
  • Highlights from Day 2 Highlights: Walailak International Workshop for Mangrove and Seagrass Carbon Sink

    Highlights from Day 2 Highlights: Walailak International Workshop for Mangrove and Seagrass Carbon Sink

    Highlights from Day 2 Highlights: Walailak International Workshop for Mangrove and Seagrass Carbon Sink

    Workshop for Mangrove and Seagrass Carbon Sink
    Date: January 13, 2025
    Venue: Chor Pradu Meeting Room, Walailak University Hospital
    The second day of the Walailak International Workshop for Mangrove and Seagrass Carbon Sink, conducted under the Reinventing University 2567 Project, focused on Seagrass Carbon Sink Ecosystems. This initiative underscores the importance of research-driven solutions for blue carbon ecosystems and international collaboration for sustainable development.
    This workshop was enriched by the participation of our network universities, including Burapha University and Suranaree University of Technology, as well as distinguished international partners.
    Morning Highlights
    Participants gained valuable insights from leading experts:
    • Seagrass species in Thailand and Taiwan by Dr. Pei-Luen Lu
    • Introduction to Seagrass Carbon Budget by Professor Dr. Hsing-Juh Lin
    • Carbon Pools in Seagrass by Dr. Pei-Luen Lu
    • Carbon Fluxes in Seagrass by Dr. Chao-Wen Lin
    Special Sessions
    The morning concluded with a Welcome Remarks and Congratulatory Address delivered by Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University.
    This was followed by the MOU Signing Ceremony between Walailak University and its esteemed international partners, National Chung Hsing University and National Sun Yat-Sen University, to strengthen collaborative research efforts. A Returning Speech by Dr. Pei-Luen Lu from National Taitung University added further significance to this milestone.
    Afternoon Activities
    The day ended with a CAMPUS TOUR PROGRAMS Walailak University’s
    This workshop reflects Walailak University’s commitment to fostering research excellence and building partnerships that lead to impactful solutions for global environmental challenges.
    Stay tuned for updates as we continue to explore innovative strategies for conserving mangroves and seagrasses under the Reinventing University 2567 Project.

  • The Institute for Research and Innovation for Excellence, Walailak University, organized an event for research proposal presentations and progress monitoring for the New Researcher Development Scheme.

    On January 13–15 and 17, 2025, Associate Professor Dr. Wichitphan Rongwong, Acting Director of the Institute for Research and Innovation for Excellence, together with Assistant Professor Dr. Saowaluk Kainara, Acting Deputy Director of the Institute, and heads of the research centers affiliated with the researchers, were assigned by the Vice President (Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siwarit Phongsakrankul) to provide guidance, recommendations, and progress monitoring to researchers from the School of Health Sciences who presented their research proposals to apply for the New Researcher Development Scheme. They also monitored the progress of research projects that had already commenced, with required progress reports scheduled at 3-month, 6-month, 9-month, and 12-month intervals.
    The activities took place in Meeting Room 3, Research Building, Walailak University, and covered the following:
    – New Researcher Development Scheme from the School of Health Sciences: 7 new grants and 7 ongoing grants being monitored.
    – New Researcher Development Scheme from the School of Social Sciences: 11 new grants and 7 ongoing grants being monitored.
    – New Researcher Development Scheme from the School of Science and Technology: 7 new grants and 11 ongoing grants being monitored.

  • Highlights from Day 1 of the Walailak International Workshop for Mangrove and Seagrass Carbon Sink

    Highlights from Day 1 of the Walailak International Workshop for Mangrove and Seagrass Carbon Sink

    Highlights from Day 1 of the Walailak International Workshop for Mangrove and Seagrass Carbon Sink

    Workshop for Mangrove and Seagrass Carbon Sink
    Date: January 12, 2025
    Venue: Huatapan Meeting Room, Walailak University Hospital
    The Walailak International Workshop for Mangrove and Seagrass Carbon Sink, part of the Reinventing University 2567 Project, commenced with an exciting and insightful first day, focusing on Mangrove Carbon Sink Ecosystems. This initiative aims to enhance Thailand’s academic and research excellence in blue carbon ecosystems while fostering global collaborations in sustainability and climate change solutions.
    Morning Highlights
    -Welcome Remarks and Progress Report by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice-President of Walailak University, set the tone for collaboration and innovation.
    -Dr. Mei-Li Hsueh shared her insights on Mangrove Species in Thailand and Taiwan, highlighting their unique biodiversity.
    -Professor Dr. Hsing-Juh Lin delivered an engaging session on the Introduction to Mangrove Carbon Budget, emphasizing the role of mangroves in combating climate change.
    -Dr. Wei-Jen Lin discussed Carbon Pools and Fluxes in Mangroves, providing participants with valuable knowledge about carbon dynamics in these ecosystems.
    Field Activities
    Participants then embarked on a hands-on experience at Ban Laem Homestay: A Mangrove Conservation Tourism Community.
    Afternoon sessions included fieldwork courses on mangrove restoration, led by a team of experts:
    -Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mullica Jaroensutasinee, Vice President and Dean of School of Science
    -Assoc. Prof.Dr. Krisanadej Jaroensutasinee, Asst. Dean on Research
    -Professor Dr. Hsing-Juh Lin, Lifetime Distinguished Professor, National Chung Hsing University
    -Dr. Wei-Jen Lin,Postdoctoral Researcher, National Sun Yat-sen University
    -Miss Hsin-Hsun Wu, Research Assistant, National Sun Yat-sen University
    -Dr. Mei-Li Hsueh, Research Fellow, Biodiversity Research Institute, MOA
    -Mr. Tai-Kun Wu, General Manager, La La Land Ecological Consultant Co., Ltd.
    This workshop is a key initiative under the Reinventing University 2567 Project, which aims to position Thai universities as leaders in academic excellence and international research collaboration. By focusing on blue carbon ecosystems like mangroves and seagrasses, this project highlights the importance of research-driven solutions for sustainable development and climate resilience.
    The involvement of network universities, including Burapha University and Suranaree University of Technology, strengthens the collaborative efforts and amplifies the impact of this important initiative.
    The day concluded with participants gaining both theoretical insights and practical experiences that will contribute to advancing blue carbon research and conservation efforts.
    Stay tuned for more updates from the workshop as we continue to explore seagrass ecosystems and their role in carbon sequestration tomorrow!
  • Walailak University’s Human Research Ethics Committee Holds December 2024 Meeting

    Walailak University’s Human Research Ethics Committee Holds December 2024 Meeting

    On December 26, 2024, the Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) of Walailak University convened its 21st meeting of the year at the Human Research Ethics Office, Room 206, 2nd Floor, Research Building, and via Zoom. The meeting was chaired by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chuchart Punsawat, Chair of the Committee.

    The key agenda of the meeting was the review of research projects seeking ethical approval under the Full-board Review category, totaling two projects:

    1. Project 1: Resubmission of a revised research project

    2. Project 2: First-time submission of a new research project

    Both projects were classified as high-risk to participants or involving complex research procedures, such as new drug trials, clinical research, studies involving vulnerable groups, or the use of biological specimens.

    The Committee’s resolutions were as follows:

    • Project 1: Approved

    • Project 2: Revision required before resubmission

    The Committee conducted its review with careful consideration, adhering to international ethical principles and institutional guidelines. Emphasis was placed on ensuring the safety, rights, and well-being of research participants. Constructive feedback was also provided to researchers to improve documents and research protocols to align with human research ethics standards.

  • Research Contest Project for Individuals Resulting from Research Grants

    Research Contest Project for Individuals Resulting from Research Grants

    Research Contest Project for Individuals Resulting from Research Grants

    โครงการประกวดผลงานวิจัยที่เป็นผลผลิตจากทุนอุดหนุนการวิจัย ประเภทบุคคล

    On Wednesday, August 14, 2024, the Institute for the Promotion of Research and Innovation for Excellence organized the Research Contest Project for Individual Research Grants at the Co-Working Space, Architecture and Design Laboratory Building, with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siwarit Pongsakornrungsilp, Vice President, presiding over the opening ceremony.

    The main objectives of this project are:
            1) To allow faculty members to exchange knowledge from research projects that received individual research grants for 2021-2023
            2) To encourage faculty members to build research networks to integrate research in interdisciplinary fields
            3) To allow faculty members to learn “the secrets of publishing high-quality international articles” from experienced researchers

    The project includes the following activities:
    1. Poster Contest for Individual Research Grants for 2021-2023, with 19 submissions from 3 academic groups
            – Poster Contest Results Science and Technology Group 1st prize Asst. Prof. Dr. Piyaluk Nurerk, Sci. 2nd prize Dr. Arsanchai Sukkuea, Engineering and Technology 3rd prize Raksiri Kaewtawee, Architecture and Design and 3rd prize (jointly) Asst. Prof. Dr. Peeravit Koad, Information Science
            – Poster Contest Results Health Science Group 1st prize Sirikanya Kaewpradit, Pharmacy 2nd prize Asst. Prof. Apirak Payaka, Public Health and 3rd prize Asst. Prof. Dr. Wanvisa Saisanan Na Ayudhaya, Public Healthฅ
            – Poster Contest Results Group of Social Sciences, 1st prize, Dr.Bhasrvarin Iamsa-ard, Faculty of Education and Liberal Arts, and 2nd prize, Tinlaphas Choopan Jaiwan, Faculty of Law

    2. The exchange of knowledge on “Secrets of publishing high-quality international articles” was honored by 2 experienced speakers:
    1) Assoc. Prof. Dr. Manas Chaijan, Faculty of Agricultural Technology and Food Industry
    2) Assoc. Prof. Dr. CChonticha Romyasamit, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences

  • HSRI Conducts Site Visit to Monitor Progress of Telehealth Technology Research Project

    HSRI Conducts Site Visit to Monitor Progress of Telehealth Technology Research Project

    HSRI Conducts Site Visit to Monitor Progress of Telehealth Technology Research Project

    On June 26, 2024, Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, Acting President of Walailak University (WU), welcomed Dr. Supakit Sirilak, Director of the Health Systems Research Institute (HSRI), along with HSRI executives and experts, on the occasion of their site visit to monitor the progress of the telehealth technology research project. This project aims to provide care for patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension.
    Associate Professor Dr. Udomsak Sa-Ngo, Acting Director of the Institute for Research and Innovation Promotion towards Excellence, WU, along with relevant WU executives and researchers, also attended the meeting, held in the Chor Pradu Conference Room at the Chulabhorn Hospital Building, Walailak University Medical Center.
    สวรส.ลงพื้นที่ติดตามความก้าวหน้า โครงการวิจัยการใช้เทคโนโลยีสุขภาพทางไกล
    The visit by HSRI executives and experts stems from the memorandum of understanding signed between WU and HSRI in 2020 to support “Enhancing Health Systems Research Capacity in Upper Southern Thailand.” The aim of this agreement is to jointly develop a medical and public health research network and to foster new medical and public health researchers in the Upper Southern region.
    In addition to monitoring the aforementioned research project, the visit included the introduction of HSRI policies and strategies, a briefing on health problems or research topics, discussions on researcher development in the area, and identifying research issues that address and solve local problems. The visit also provided an opportunity for new researchers to ask questions and exchange support for research funding, aiming to expand future academic collaborations.