The National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, and the International Center for Biotechnology (ICBiotech), The University of Osaka, Japan, held discussions on future cooperation in research and innovation. The talks focused particularly on researcher and student exchanges, as well as expanding opportunities for researchers in biotechnology, science and technology, and the humanities.
During the meeting held on 8 July 2025, Professor Kohsuke Honda, Director of the International Center for Biotechnology, explained that ICBiotech places strong emphasis on research related to biomass and carbon dioxide reduction, including converting carbon dioxide into value-added products. The Center also focuses on research challenges from the private sector and collaborative approaches that contribute to the conservation of global biodiversity. He noted that cooperation with Asian countries is therefore particularly important and expressed ICBiotech’s readiness to develop collaboration with NRCT in the near future.
Professor Dr. Kazuhito Fujiyama of ICBiotech highlighted the Center’s commitment to promoting international cooperation, especially with countries in Asia, to advance education and biotechnology research. Its activities focus on biological utilization, improving bioconversion processes, and conserving genetic resources. ICBiotech also maintains international centers and networks in Europe and Asia, including the ASEAN Center for Academic Initiatives at Mahidol University’s Salaya Campus, as well as satellite offices in Asia. The Center has also implemented short-stay and short-visit programs for researchers and students in biotechnology, including participants from Thailand, to exchange knowledge and experience over approximately one month.
Dr. Wiparat De-ong, Executive Director of NRCT, stated that NRCT places importance on supporting research and innovation across a wide range of disciplines. NRCT has also maintained continuous cooperation with Japanese organizations, including the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) and the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST). She noted that the meeting with ICBiotech represented an important opportunity to explore expanded collaboration with Japanese institutions, particularly in joint research and researcher exchanges in biotechnology, social sciences, humanities, and related fields. Such cooperation would help researchers from both Thailand and Japan strengthen their capabilities and build international research networks.
Professor Kiyoshi Fujita, Regional Director of the ASEAN Center for Academic Initiatives based in Thailand, also participated in the meeting and discussions.