Friend of Thai Science Award
Every year, the Office of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation
at the Royal Thai Embassy, Washington D.C. recognizes 2 candidates
who have made significant contributions in STEM fields benefitting Thailand,
by awarding them the Friend of Thai Science Award.
To qualify:
1. The nominee must currently work or have had experience in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, or Mathematics.
2. The nominee can be a Thai or non-Thai citizen but must hold citizenship of the U.S., Canada, or Latin America.
Friend of Thai Science Award 2024
Friend of Thai Science 2024
Congratulations to Distinguished Professor Mark Gregory Robson, PhD, MPH
Dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Associate Vice Provost for Graduate Education
Rutgers University, New Jersey
Dr. Mark Robson has spent over 30 years collaborating with Thai scientists in academia and government, beginning with his connections formed in the 1980s. His work includes significant contributions to health and environmental research, particularly through long-standing teaching roles at Chulalongkorn University and other major Thai institutions. He has led various international research projects, including the NIH Fogarty ITREOH project and the GEOHealth Hub project, supporting the training of many Thai MPH and PhD students. Dr. Robson was awarded an honorary doctorate by Chulalongkorn University in 2010, a highlight of his career. His ongoing commitment is evident in his continued mentorship and participation in Thai scientific and academic events.
Friend of Thai Science 2024
Congratulations to Associate Professor Natcha Thawesaengskulthai, PhD., PMP, AFHEA
Program Manager, Business, Innovation and Economic Development
Montgomery County Executive Office, Maryland
Executive Committee, the World bank Family Network (WBFN)
Former Vice President and Associate Professor in Industrial Engineering
Chulalongkorn University, Thailand
Dr. Natcha Thawesaengskulthai has been a key driver of STEAM collaboration between Thailand and the USA. She founded the Global Innovation Club, connecting governments, academia, and industry partners to support Thailand’s innovation ecosystem. Her initiatives include strategic partnerships like the Cornell Global Hub Network and collaborations between Chulalongkorn University and UC Berkeley, which led to student successes in global competitions. Dr. Natcha also established a startup bridge between Montgomery County, Maryland, and Thailand, providing Thai and U.S. startups with support for international expansion. Her leadership in Chula Deeptech Demo Day 2023 showcased over 100 Thai deeptech enterprises, attracting global investors and partners.