Three Chula professors win the 2026 National Outstanding Researcher Award 

Chulalongkorn University extends its heartfelt congratulations to its faculty researchers for bringing great pride to the university by winning three National Outstanding Researcher Awards for 2026, twelve Research Awards, twenty-nine NRCT Quality Achievement Awards, twelve Thesis Awards, and ten Invention Awards, as announced by the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) on November 30, 2025. 

National Outstanding Researcher Awards 2026 

Chulalongkorn University received 3 out of 15 awards: 

• Prof. Dr. Pithi Chanvorachote, R.Ph. (Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences), Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences 
• Dr. Sirimon Treepongkaruna (Economics), Sasin School of Management 
• Prof. Dr. Pangpond Rak-Amnuaykit, (Economics), Faculty of Political Science 

Research Awards 

Chulalongkorn University received 11 awards out of 57 entries in 12 academic fields: 

• Outstanding Level (1 award) – Assoc. Prof. Dr. Anukoon Rotjanasuksomboon, Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts – “Puppet Performance for Local History Learning” (Philosophy) 

Excellent Level (3 awards) 

• Prof. Dr. Dewan Janwilaisri, Faculty of Science – “Alternative Treatments for Drug-Resistant Pathogens: A Case Study of Clostridioides difficile” (Medical Sciences) 
• Dr. Nadnudda Rodthongkum et al., Faculty of Science – “Wearable Sensors for Self-Screening of Health Conditions Through Sweat” (Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences) 
• Prof. Dr. Jintavee Khlaisang, & Assoc. Prof. Dr. Prakob Koraneekij, Faculty of Education – “Developing Sustainable Learning Through a Digital Lifelong Learning Ecosystem for Future Skills in Higher Education” (Education) 

Good Level (8 awards) 

• Dr. Sudkate Chaiyo et al. — “Integrating Lateral Flow Test Strips with Electrochemistry for Infectious Disease Diagnosis” (Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences) 
• Prof. Dr. Somporn Techangamsuwan, D.V.M. & Dr. Chatrachai Piwbang, D.V.M. — “Integrating Molecular Virology and Pathology for Diagnosing Emerging and Re-emerging Animal Diseases” (Agricultural Sciences and Biology) 
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Channarong Rodkhum, D.V.M. et al. — “Integrating Fish Infectious Disease Research for Holistic Fish Health and One Health Development” (Agricultural Sciences and Biology) 
• Prof. Dr. Ariya Aruninta — “Industrial Development Impacts on Cultural Landscapes and Food Security in Wetlands: A Case Study of the Bang Pakong River Basin, Chachoengsao Province, Thailand” (Philosophy) 
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Veerasak Kruethep et al. — “Promoting Local Government Roles in Community Well-being Through Local Government Autonomy Indicators” (Political Science and Public Administration) 
• Prof. Dr. Siripan Nogsuan Sawasdee— “Evaluation and Lessons Learned from the 2023 General Election in Thailand” (Political Science and Public Administration) 
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Sirima Thongsawang — Case studies of Tambon Nong Lan (Kanchanaburi) and Tambon Talad Mai (Ang Thong) (Political Science and Public Administration) 
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sumontip Jitsawang et al. — “Research Program: A Non-Violent Thai Society (Year 3)” (Information and Communication Technology) 

Thesis Awards 

Chulalongkorn University received 12 awards out of 51 theses in 12 fields. 

Excellent Level (3 awards) 

• Dr. Chanya Phanrungroj, Faculty of Engineering – “Enhancing Clean Fuel Synthesis from Solar Energy via Integrated Approaches: 24-Hour Fuel Production and Efficient Waste Heat Utilization” (Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences) — Advisor: Prof. Erwin Reisner 
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Patchaya Akkapram, Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts – “Creation of the Contemporary Lam Mu Performance ‘Nang Ai’” (Philosophy) — Advisor: Prof. Panrat Damrung 
• Dr. Kulchaya Piboon, Faculty of Education – “Virtual STEAM Studio Learning Environments Using Socioscientific Issues to Foster Secondary Students’ Scientific Creativity” (Education) — Advisor: Prof. Dr. Jintavee Klaisang 

Good Level (9 awards) 

• Dr. Sermporn Thaweesapphithak from the Faculty of Dentistry for the work “Study of Mutations and Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Runt-2 in Cleidocranial Dysplasia” (Medical Science). Primary Advisor: Prof. Dr. Thandhira Porntaveetas
• Dr. Thanpisit Lomphithak from the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences for the work “The Role of Regulated Cell Death in Cholangiocarcinoma and Pancreatic Cancer” (Medical Science). Primary Advisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siriporn Jitkaew
• Dr. Jakarwan Yostawonkul from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine for the work “Utilization of Testosterone-Loaded Nanoparticles for Male Induction in Nile Tilapia” (Agricultural Science and Biology). Primary Advisor: Prof. Dr. Napadol Pilarat. 
• Dr. Panawan Vanaphuti from the Faculty of Science for the work “Development of High-Energy Oxide Cathodes with Manganese as a Key Component for Lithium-Ion and Sodium-Ion Batteries” (Engineering and Industrial Research). Primary Advisor: Prof. Dr. Yan Wang. 
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kawin Dhanakoses from the Faculty of Architecture for the work “The Ability to Modify Physical Elements to Enhance Safety of Scientific Laboratory Buildings: Case Study – Chulalongkorn University” (Philosophy). Primary Advisor: Prof. Chatchai Wiriyakraikul. 
• Dr. Apichu Kitikamthorn from the Faculty of Communication Arts for the work “The Infodemic during the Coronavirus Crisis and Social Media Platforms in Thailand” (Information Technology and Communication Arts). Primary Advisor: Prof. Emeritus Dr. Pirongrong Ramsut. 
• Dr. Thanaporn Gowitwanich from the Faculty of Education for the work “Development of Modules to Enhance Key Drivers of Lifelong Learning for Teachers, Focusing on Lifelong Learning Mindsets, Learning Habits, and Self-Directed Learning” (Education). Primary Advisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Weerathep Pathumcharoenwattana. 
• Dr. Sahaphat Sathapanikanon from the Faculty of Education for the work “Models for Developing Digital Literacy in Graduate Students” (Education). Primary Advisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sirichan Satirakul Techapahpong. 
• Dr. Thirayut Inprang from the Faculty of Education for the work “Development of a Computer-Based Testing System to Assess Classroom Assessment Competency of Teachers: Application of Multidimensional Item Response Theory” (Education). Primary Advisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kamolwan Tangthanakarn. 

Invention Awards 

Chulalongkorn University awarded 10 inventions out of a total of 62 entries across 9 academic fields as follows: 

Outstanding Award (1 award): 

• Assoc. Prof. Pornthep Lertdewasiri, Faculty of Education, for the work “Nifty Elderly: Products to Promote Well-being for Older Adults” (Philosophy category) 

Very Good Award (1 award): 

• Asst. Prof. Napas Khwanmuang and team, Faculty of Architecture, for the work “Tor Thai” (Philosophy category) 

Good Award (3 awards): 

• Prof. Dr. Natthachai Srisawat and team, Faculty of Medicine, for the work “Urinary Microalbumin Test Kit” (Medical Science category) 
• Prof. Dr. Pranut Potiyaraj and team, Faculty of Science, for the work “Multiplex Colorimetric Test Strip for Analyzing Heavy Metals and Contaminants in Drinking Water” (Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Science category) 
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vorrapon Chaikeeratisak and team, Faculty of Science, for the work “High-efficiency Phage-based Biocomposite Formula for Broad-spectrum Pathogen Elimination to Reduce Acute Mortality Risk in Sustainable Aquaculture” (Agriculture and Biology category) 

Honorable Mention (5 awards): 

• Assoc. Prof. Kongkiat Srisuwattanasakul, DVM, and team from the Faculty of Veterinary Science, with the project “Formalin-free preservative solution to enhance safety and effectiveness in anatomical studies and clinical training” (Medical Sciences) 
• Prof. Dr. Orawon Chailapakul and team from the Faculty of Science, with the project “Integrated electrochemical HIV screening test kit” (Medical Sciences) 
• Dr. Abdulhadee Yakoh and team from the Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, with the project “MpoxView & eMpox: Innovative high-performance DNA test kits and e-DNA chips for detecting monkeypox viral genetic material” (Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences) 
• Dr. Preecha Kittikhunnatham and team from the Faculty of Science, with the project “CapsiGuard: An ethical elephant-driving innovation for harmonious coexistence between humans and elephants” (Philosophy) 
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Parath Thirati and team from the Faculty of Medicine, with the project “Dip Before You Sip: A nail-mounted alert device to prevent drink spiking and enhance social safety” (Sociology) 

NRCT Quality Achievement Award 

Chulalongkorn University received 29 awards out of a total of 230 award-winning works, as follows: 

Research Awards (8) 

• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thanyada Rungrotmongkol and team, Faculty of Science 
  Project: “Theoretical Understanding to Combat Mutated Strains of COVID-19” 
  (Field: Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences) 
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Dachrit Nilubol and team, Faculty of Veterinary Science 
  Project: “From Observation, Analysis, and Knowledge Development to Practical Application in Swine Farms: Monitoring Evolution and Advancing the Development of Immunoassay Test Kits, Adjuvant Delivery Systems, and Vaccines for Emerging Swine Diseases, including Coronavirus and Senecavirus-associated blistering disease.” 
  (Field: Agriculture and Biology) 
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Kanpirom Komalarajun, Faculty of Law 
  Project: “Psychosocial Support for Crime Victims with Intellectual Disabilities: A Comparative Study of German and Thai Law” 
  (Field: Law) 
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Pornsan Liangboonlertchai, Faculty of Law 
  Project: “Issues Concerning the Fact-Finding Functions of Parliamentary Committees under the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand B.E. 2560 (2017): A Comparative Study with the Functions of U.S. Congressional Committees” 
  (Field: Law) 
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kanis Saengchote, Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy 
  Project: “Debt Burden of Real Estate Development Companies, Bond-Based Fundraising, and the Externalities of Rapid Distressed Asset Sales Below Fair Value” 
  (Field: Economics) 
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Athiphat Muthitacharoen and team, Faculty of Economics 
  Project: “Retirement Investment and Tax Benefits” 
  (Field: Economics) 
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Teerada Jongkolrattanaporn, Faculty of Communication Arts 
  Project: “Online Media Use, Technostress, and Communication Competency among Higher-Education Personnel in Thailand” 
  (Field: Information Technology and Communication Studies) 
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Teerada Chongkolrattanaporn and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phanom Klee Chai, Faculty of Communication Arts 
  Project: “Digital Inequality and the Use of Health Services Through Digital Technology” 
  (Field: Information Technology and Communication Studies) 

Thesis Awards (9) 

• Dr. Kan Jeenmuang from the Petroleum and Petrochemical College, for the work “A Study of the Impact and Relationship of Amino Acids on Gas Hydrate Formation” (Engineering and Industrial Research) 
• Dr. Khunat Sukhatham from the Faculty of Pharmacy, for the work “Application of Aqueous Solution Systems for Green Extraction and Isolation of Anti-Diabetic Compounds from Tinospora crispa Stems” (Engineering and Industrial Research) 
• Dr. Wipada Uppama from the Faculty of Engineering, for the work “Covalent Organic Frameworks Using Aldehyde and Amine Linkers as Interlayers for Constructing Solid Phases with Electrolytes for Zinc Anodes in Aqueous Electrolytes” (Engineering and Industrial Research) 
• Dr. Wathanyu Kao-ian from the Faculty of Engineering, for the work “Development of a Non-Aqueous Zinc-Ion Battery with a Manganese Dioxide Cathode” (Engineering and Industrial Research) 
• Dr. Parimol Tippayamalee from the Graduate School, for the work “Development of Materials to Enhance the Efficiency and Stability of Zinc–Iron Flow Batteries” (Engineering and Industrial Research) 
• Dr. Warrayut Kanabenja from the Faculty of Science, for the work “Three-Dimensional Printing of Composites Between Hydroxyapatite and Polyhydroxyalkanoate-Based Materials” (Engineering and Industrial Research) 
• Dr. Sarawut Pothisrikham from the Faculty of Arts, for the work “Buddhist Teachings in Dhammajak Magazine During the Period When Somdet Phra Maha Samanachao Krom Phraya Vajirananavarorasa Served as Editor (1894–1911): Background, Essence, and Role in Thai Buddhism” (Philosophy) 
• Dr. Kobkit Chamchod from the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, for the work “Guidelines for Designing Brand Identity for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises” (Philosophy) 
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Jutiporn Parinyokul from the Faculty of Communication Arts, for the work “A Predictive Model and Management Guidelines for Online Political Crisis Using Big Data” (Information Technology and Communication Arts) 

Invention Awards (12) 

• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Asada Leelahavanichkul, M.D., and team from the Faculty of Medicine, for the work “An Innovative Point-of-Care Diagnostic Kit Using Citrullinated Histone H3 Protein for the Diagnosis and Monitoring of Infections and Acute Severe Pneumonia” (Medical Sciences) 
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Asada Leelahavanichkul, M.D., and team from the Faculty of Medicine, for the work “Atmospheric-Pressure Cold Plasma Innovation from Argon Gas: A Technology to Elevate Future Wound Care” (Medical Sciences) 
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Sathaporn Ngamukote and team from the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, for the work “High-Protein Plant-Based Fibers Enriched with Rice Bran: A Study of Physicochemical Properties and Starch Digestibility for Globally Competitive Health Foods” (Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences) 
• Asst. Prof. Dr. Monpichar Srisa-Art and team from the Faculty of Science, for the work “Development of an Electrochemical Method for Detecting Tetrahydrocannabinol Emissions from Cannabis Smoking to Regulate Air Quality in Legal-use Areas” (Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences) 
• Prof. Dr. Sirichai Adisakwattana and team from the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, for the work “Rice-Grain-Shaped Encapsulation of Egg White Protein for Nutritional Therapy” (Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences) 
• Mr. Arthit Prathumpuang and team from the Faculty of Science, for the work “Agent 29: Needle-Shaped Copper Oxychloride Nanomaterials for the Elimination of Fungal Pathogens in Crops and Commercial Fruits” (Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences) 
• Dr. Nipapan Ruecha and team from the Metallurgy and Materials Science Research Institute, for the work “Portable Electrolyte Monitoring Device for Detecting Sodium and Potassium Deficiency in the Human Body” (Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences) 
• Prof. Dr. Supaart Sirikantaramas and team from the Faculty of Science, for the work “From Durian Orchard to Beauty Innovation: Upcycling Waste Materials into High-Value Extracts for Future Cosmetics” (Agricultural Science and Biology) 
• Prof. Dr. Rathanawan Magaraphan from the Petroleum and Petrochemical College, for the work “Metal Sheet Roofing Lined with Recycled Rubber Tires for Cooler, Quieter, Low-Carbon Homes” (Engineering and Industrial Research) 
• Dr. Phonnapha Tangthuam and team from the Faculty of Engineering, for the work “Hybrid Zinc–Bromine Flow Battery Technology Using High-Performance and Safe Electrolyte and Additive Formulas for National Sustainability and Security” (Engineering and Industrial Research) 
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ronnapee Chaichaowarat from the Faculty of Engineering, for the work “Wearable Wheel-Integrated Robots to Assist Human Mobility” (Engineering and Industrial Research) 
• Mr. Kitchai Kanchanaprapakul and team from the Faculty of Engineering, for the work “MagAir: Intelligent Backup Energy for Disaster Situations” (Engineering and Industrial Research) 

(Information from the Office of Research Affairs, Chulalongkorn University) 

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