Date: Apr 11, 2025
at Meeting Room 506, National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC), Pathum Thani
The National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), through the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC), hosted a discussion meeting with representatives from the University of New South Wales (UNSW), Australia, Chulalongkorn University, and the Chulabhorn Research Institute. The meeting focused on defining collaborative strategies in research, managing water resources, and tackling the challenges posed by emerging pollutants in water sources, especially PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances). This initiative will facilitate the creation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for academic collaboration in hydrology to promote sustainable water resource management.
The meeting was honored by the presence of Prof. Denis O’Carroll, Deputy Head (Research) of the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Managing Director of the Water Research Laboratory (WRL ) at the University of New South Wales. Moreover, attendees included representatives from Chulalongkorn University, headed by Associate Professor Aksara Putthividhya from the Department of Water Resources Engineering, and Dr. Tawit Suriyo, a Senior Researcher at the Chulabhorn Research Institute. They discussed matters with Associate Professor Dr. Toemsak Srikhirin, the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC) Director, NSTDA, and his team.
The discussion centered on potential research collaborations among the four institutions, specifically regarding developing knowledge and conducting research to improve capabilities in water resource management, water quality monitoring, and tackling emerging pollutants in water sources, especially PFAS and antimicrobial resistance. Emphasis was placed on the significance of thorough studies and management of environmental contaminants to effectively mitigate impacts on human health and ecosystems while minimizing potential risks to the public and the environment.
Furthermore, the meeting introduced a preliminary draft of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) concerning collaboration in water resource management, water quality monitoring, and managing emerging pollutants in water sources. The agreement between NSTDA, the University of New South Wales, Chulalongkorn University, and the Chulabhorn Research Institute will serve as a framework for integrating scientific knowledge and technologies in water management between the two countries, aiming for greater efficiency and long-term sustainability.
