Welcome to our ‘Member in the Spotlight’ series, where we showcase the research focuses and work of our members. We hope these profiles support you in getting to know our members and to identify themes in your work and focuses where you may be able to collaborate with colleagues at member institutions.
Introducing…Suranaree University of Technology
Who are Suranaree University of Technology?
Suranaree University of Technology (SUT) is an innovation and sustainable university with a large campus based in the Northeast of Thailand. SUT is an academic technology hub and a collaborator in science, technology and innovation. They proudly solve complex community-based problems, contributing towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
SUT collaborates with around 100 partners in the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) region including Shibaura Institute of Technology (Japan), Guizhou University (China) and Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (Indonesia). These collaborations include exchanges, training, placements, conferences, seminars and collaborative research projects. Outside of the ASEAN region, SUT has partners worldwide including France, Switzerland, Germany, and Japan.
What are their research focuses?
SUT has nine centres of excellence undertaking academic research in science and technology:
- Advanced Functional Materials
- High Energy Physics & Astrophysics
- Biomechanics Medicine
- Biomass
- Electromagnetic Wave Application
- Innovation for Sustainable Infrastructure Development
- Entrepreneurship
- Agricultural Product Innovation Technology (and Innovation for Korat Chicken Business Development)
- Microbial Technology for Agricultural Industry
SUT also engages with social and local communities through its research to solve real-world challenges including poverty, inequality, climate change, peace, and justice.
In collaboration with UNESCO World Heritage Site Khao Yai National Park at Protection Unit 4 (Klong Plakang), the local community, and the Canadian Embassy, SUT is undertaking a project which aims to resolve human-wildlife conflict and community tensions through a ‘Natural Educational Smart Trail’. Another project which explores environmental sustainability includes utilising materials innovations to offer environmentally friendly products such as lightweight cellular cements, biodegradable food sleeves from rubber trees, and autoclavable bioplastic packaging.
Another project uses Boron Neutron Capture Therapy as a targeted cancer treatment and an environmentally safe and cost-effective plasma disinfection technology for hospitals and public buildings against COVID-19 and other microbials.
SUT undertakes this work through 4 Enterprise Units and 2 Social Enterprise Units:
Enterprise Units
- Technopolis which explores incubation and technology transfer.
- Suranaree University of Technology Hospital (SUTH) which engages with public services and medical innovation.
- Suranaree University of Technology Farm, focussing on research and technology transfer.
- Surasammanakhan, focussed on hotel accommodation.
Social Enterprise Units
- Surawiwat School Academy which prioritises the study of science, technology, and language learning to steer the younger generation into STEM.
- Plant Genetic Conservation Project under the Royal Initiative of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn (RSPG).
SUT and the WTUN
General Board Member: Dr Anan Tongraar, Rector, Suranaree University of Technology
Operational Board Member: Dr Mullika Sungsanit, Vice Rector for Engagement, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Suranaree University of Technology
SUT, as a member, has been involved in several WTUN activities from hosting and sending applicants on exchanges on themes such as: Entrepreneurship; Sustainable Cities and Communities; Sensor-Embedded Insoles; and Clean and Affordable Energy.
If you want to learn more about SUT, you can view their Member Profile here: Suranaree University of Technology
- Dr Soodkhet Pojprapai visits University of Newcastle to support research for sensor-embedded insoles for rehabilitation
- SUT students participate in the first WTUN-Accelerated Student Entrepreneurship Programme 2025, sharing their experiences at Workshop 1, hosted by Bradford-Renduchintala Enterprise Ecosystem at University of Bradford