Associate Professor Dr. Nathanan Khunmas, National Outstanding Researcher of 2025, for her Research on International Relations and European Studies 

Associate Professor Dr. Natthanan Kunnamas from the Department of International Relations, Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University, has been named National Outstanding Researcher for 2025 in the field of Political Science and Public Administration by the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT). She is an expert in European Studies, applying the knowledge to policy issues, such as suggesting new market opportunities in Europe, developing public diplomacy strategies, and building security cooperation. 

The Beginning of Her Research Success 

Associate Professor Dr. Natthanan shared with us her inspiration and the path leading to her research success: “Research is like completing a professor’s role as a true scholar. Research makes one a more complete scholar, not only advancing oneself but also creating new knowledge that benefits society and the country.” 

Her interest in European Studies stems from a desire to fill the information gap in Thailand, especially regarding Eastern European countries that transitioned from communism to democracy. Much of the available information came from Western European countries, and she wanted to understand how these countries had changed and whether these developments aligned with the theories learned. The Thai government sector’s knowledge in this area was seen to be lacking. 

Research Principles and Sustainable Success 

In conducting her research, Associate Professor Dr. Natthanan adheres to four key principles: 

1. Conscience and Ethics in Research: 

She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong conscience in research. As a scholar in the social sciences, where experiments are not conducted in laboratories, her research faces challenges in choosing unbiased variables and following strict research ethics to avoid plagiarism. 

2. Focus on What You Are Passionate About: 

Dr. Natthanan highlights the importance of selecting research topics that one is genuinely interested in and skilled at. For example, her research on the European Union’s strategy in the Indo-Pacific region covers important topics like Green Transition, Sustainable Ocean Management, and Human Security, all of which align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and support Chulalongkorn University’s mission. 

3. Respect for Data Sources: 

She emphasizes the responsibility in research, particularly respecting data providers, maintaining the confidentiality of sample groups, and seeking Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval to ensure research is ethical, transparent, and respectful toward data sources, thereby increasing the credibility and long-term social benefits of the research. 

Outstanding Research and Contributions to Society 

Dr. Natthanan’s notable research includes studies on the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Brexit; strategies for international security through public diplomacy; and strategic proposals for Thailand’s relations with the European Union and Russia. These works have been presented to Thailand’s National Security Council. 

Dr. Natthanan is also the only scholar in Southeast Asia honored as an expert in European Studies and has received a Knight’s Cross of the French National Order of Merit, affirming the value of her research not only for society but also for national pride. 

Advice for Emerging Researchers 

For new researchers, Dr. Natthanan advises, “Choose a research topic you are truly passionate about. Research is a long process, and if you are not interested or skilled in the topic, you may lose motivation.” She also stresses that research doesn’t necessarily have to involve complex theories but should be aimed at creating sustainable benefits across various sectors. 

Finally, for those interested in international relations and European studies, Dr. Natthanan recommends following official platforms for accurate and up-to-date information, as well as supporting scholars who have made impactful contributions to the academic field. This can help foster a deeper understanding of related issues and drive further research that will benefit society and the country in the long run. 

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