Khon Kaen University has taken a bold step toward global research excellence with the launch of its Global Funding Initiative: A Sustainable Future Through Global Research Funding. Held on Monday, March 3, 2025, at the Northeastern Science Park, the event brought together researchers from diverse disciplines to explore strategies for securing international research funding. The initiative, organized by KKU’s Research Division, was presided over by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul, President of KKU, and featured a dynamic lineup of presentations, discussions, and team-building activities.
Prof. Dr. Pewpan Maleewong, Vice President for Research, highlighted the collaborative efforts between the Research Division and the International Affairs Division in shaping the initiative. The program outlined a roadmap for 2025–2028, aiming to position KKU as a global leader in research and development while improving its rankings in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings and QS World University Rankings.
“The key challenge is to inspire KKU researchers to build international networks and collaborate with leading global institutions on impactful research projects,” said Prof. Dr. Pewpan.
The event provided a platform for researchers to share their experiences, learn from successful grant recipients, and brainstorm innovative ideas. It also emphasized the importance of aligning research with global societal needs, fostering collaboration, and identifying funding opportunities that support sustainable progress.
Driving KKU’s Global Vision
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Charnchai Panthongviriyakul underscored the critical role of global research funding in KKU’s mission to become a top-tier global research university. He emphasized the need for university administrators, deans, and researchers to actively build international research networks during overseas visits, MOUs, and study tours.
“Achieving this goal is undoubtedly challenging, but with collective effort, we can succeed. Strong research networks will not only enhance KKU’s global rankings but also drive sustainable progress for the university and its researchers,” he stated.
Event Highlights
The event featured a series of engaging presentations under the theme Impact Journeys from KKU Researchers. Eleven distinguished researchers shared their insights and experiences, including:
- Contributing Factors and Journey to Global Fund: Experience Sharing & Perspectives by Prof. Kiatichai Faksri (Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine).
- Research and Development Opportunity in A New Era for Future Food, Functional Food, and Smart Food for Sustainability by Prof. Jintanaporn Wattanathorn (Physiology, Faculty of Medicine).
- Empowering Southeast Asia: Transforming Oral Health Through Research and Training by Assoc. Prof. Waranuch Pitiphat (Dental Public Health, Faculty of Dentistry).
- Combatting Cholangiocarcinoma in Lao PDR by Assoc. Prof. Watcharin Loilome (Systems Biology and Computational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine).
- The Power of Young Investigators: International Collaboration for Cancer Research and Traditional Medicine Promotion by Assoc. Prof. Charupong Saengboonmee (Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine).
- Key Elements Impacting the Evaluation of National/International Grant Proposals by Asst. Prof. Jutarop Phetcharaburanin (Systems Biology and Computational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine).
- Towards Low-Carbon Livestock Production by Prof. Metha Wanapat (Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture).
- How to Get Funded from International Donors: The Experience of the Center for Civil Society and Nonprofit Management by Prof. Buapun Promphakping (Social Sciences, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences).
- ESG and Circular Innovation: Transforming Agricultural Waste into Value by Assoc. Prof. Phaninee Naruetharadhol (Business Administration, Innovation, and Applied Sciences, International College).
- How Technology and Talent Drive a More Connected and Sustainable World by Asst. Prof. Chitsutha Soomlek (Computer Science, College of Computing).
- The Power of Spatial Data to Make a Sustainable Future by Asst. Prof. Pattamaporn Wongwiriya (Architecture, Faculty of Architecture).
These presentations offered invaluable insights into building international research networks, selecting innovative and globally relevant research topics, and addressing key trends such as environmental sustainability and global demand.
Interactive Sessions and Collaboration
The event also featured a Town Hall Meeting where participants engaged in discussions on Passion & Pain Points. Researchers were divided into three groups based on their fields:
- Health Sciences and Health Professions,
- Agricultural Sciences, Engineering and Technology, and Computer Science,
- Business & Economics and Arts & Humanities.
The discussions fostered collaboration and idea-sharing, culminating in a team-building activity that strengthened connections among participants.
Participant Feedback
Ajarn Teerapong Pienwisetkeaw, a lecturer in Business Administration at KKU’s International College, praised the event for its focus on global trends and funding opportunities. As a new faculty member, he found the insights and Q&A sessions particularly valuable, providing a clear guideline for aligning research with global perspectives.
“I hope similar events will be organized regularly to continue supporting researchers in navigating the global research funding landscape,” he said.
A Path Toward Global Research Excellence
The Global Funding Initiative was a resounding success, equipping KKU researchers with the abilities and knowledge to secure international grants and build sustainable research networks. With a clear vision and collective effort, KKU is poised to achieve its goal of becoming a global leader in research and innovation.
