Academic Session

List of Topical Sessions, Technical Symposia, and Special Activities (Partial List)

1) Topical Sessions

1. Nanomaterials, Catalysts, Surface Science and Thin Film Technology

Scope: Nanomaterials exhibit unique properties due to their nanoscale dimensions, making them ideal for catalysis, sensing and energy conversion applications. This session covers the design and characterization of nanocatalysts, surface modification techniques, and thin film deposition methods such as physical vapor deposition, chemical vapor deposition, atomic layer deposition, and epitaxy. Discussions may include the role of surface science in understanding catalytic mechanisms and the design of heterogeneous catalysts for sustainable chemical processes.

Key Areas: Catalysis, Sensing, Energy conversion, Nanocatalysts, Surface modification, Thin film deposition, Surface science, Heterogeneous catalysts, Metal-organic framework (MOF).

1. Chair: Prof. Dr. Wisanu Pecharapa (KMTIL)
2. Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chaikarn Liewhiran (CMU) 
3. Co-chair: Dr. Mati Horprathum (NECTEC)
4. Co-chair: Dr. Narong Chanlek (SLRI)

2. Ceramics and Glass Technology

Scope: Ceramics and glasses are indispensable materials in industries ranging from electronics to biomedical engineering. This session explores the structure-property relationships of ceramic and glass materials, including crystallography, defect chemistry, and phase transformations. Topics may include the fabrication of traditional, functional glass and/or ceramics, glass-ceramic composites, and bioactive glasses for applications in electronic, optoelectronics and photonics devices, thermal management, and tissue engineering scaffolds.

Key Areas: Crystallography, Defect chemistry, Phase transformations, Functional ceramics, Glass-ceramic composites, Bioactive glasses, Electronic devices, Thermal management, Tissue engineering scaffolds

1. Chair: Prof. Dr. Prasit Thongbai (KU)
2. Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kamonpan Pengpat (CMU)
3. Co-Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tosapol Maluangnont (KMITL) 
4. Co-Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sukanda Jiansirisomboon (SUT)
5. Co-Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Patarawagee Yasaka (NPRU)

3. Polymers, Bioplastics, Rubber, Colloids and Emulsions.

Scope: Polymers exhibit diverse properties and structures, offering versatility in applications such as drug delivery, packaging, and biomaterials. This session covers the synthesis and characterization of polymers, including biodegradable polymers, elastomers, and polymer blends. Discussions may focus on the rheological behavior of polymer melts, self-assembly phenomena in colloidal systems, and the design of stimuli-responsive polymers for controlled drug release and tissue engineering applications.

Key Areas: Drug delivery, Packaging, Biomaterials, Biodegradable polymers, Elastomers, Polymer blends, Rheological behavior, Self-assembly phenomena, Stimuli-responsive polymers

1. Chair: Prof. Dr. Pranut Potiyaraj (CU) 
2. Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pakorn Opaprakasit (SIIT)
3. Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Winita Punyodom (CMU)
4. Co-Chair: Prof. Dr. Pornchai Rachtanapun (CMU)

4. Nano-biomaterials, Nanomedicine and Tissue Engineering, and Medical Devices.

Scope: Nanotechnology has revolutionized biomedical applications by enabling precise control over drug delivery, imaging, biosensing, and tissue regeneration. This session explores the design and functionalization of nanostructured biomaterials for targeted therapy, diagnostics, molecular and MRI imaging, and tissue engineering implants and medical devices. Discussions may include the development of nanoparticle-based contrast agents, biosensors, smart hydrogels, and 3D bioprinting techniques for fabricating complex tissue constructs with enhanced biocompatibility and regenerative potential.

Key Areas: Targeted therapy, Diagnostic imaging, Biosensors, Tissue regeneration, Nanoparticle-based contrast agents, Smart hydrogels, 3D bioprinting, Biocompatibility, Regenerative potential, and Medical devices.

1. Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sarawut Kumphune (CMU)
2. Co-Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jaroon Jakmunee (CMU)
3. Co-Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr.Suchart Kothan  (CMU)
4. Co-Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Panchika Prangkio (CMU)
5. Co-Chair: Dr. Phornsawat Baipaywad (CMU)

5. Metal, Alloy, Materials Processing and Corrosion

Scope: This session covers the fundamentals of metal alloying, rare-earth metal processing, phase transformations, and microstructural characterization techniques such as electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Discussions may focus on advanced processing methods like additive manufacturing, surface engineering techniques, and corrosion-resistant coatings for extending the service life of metallic components in harsh environments.

Key Areas: Metal alloying, rare-earth metal processing, Phase transformations, Microstructural characterization, Electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Additive manufacturing, Surface engineering, Corrosion-resistant coatings.

1. Chair: Asst. Prof. Dr. Chaiyasit Banjongprasert (CMU)
2. Chair: Dr. Anchalee Manomukul (MTEC)
3. Co-Chair: Asst. Prof. Dr. Kittichai Sojiphan (KMUTNB)
4. Co-Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chatdanai Boonruang (CMU)

6. Advanced Composites and Construction Materials

Scope: Composite materials offer high strength-to-weight ratios and tailored properties for aerospace, automotive, and civil engineering applications. This session explores the design, fabrication, and performance optimization of advanced composite structures, including fiber-reinforced polymers, ceramic matrix composites, and hybrid laminates. Discussions may include multiscale modeling approaches, process-structure-property relationships, and innovative construction materials for sustainable infrastructure development.

Key Areas: Aerospace, Automotive, Civil engineering, Fiber-reinforced polymers, Ceramic matrix composites, Hybrid laminates, Multiscale modeling, Sustainable infrastructure.

1. Chair: Prof. Dr. Arnon Chaipanich (CMU)
2. Co-Chair: Asst. Prof. Dr. Thanapong Sareein (RUT)
3. Co-Chair: Dr. Phieraya Pulphol (SWU)
4. Co-Chair: Asst. Prof. Dr. Rattiyakorn Rianyoi (CMU)

7. Computational Materials Science and Condense Matter, Modeling and Simulations, Data-driven Material Modeling, Artificial Intelligence

Scope: Condensed matter physics provides insights into the electronic, magnetic, and structural properties of materials at the atomic and molecular scales. This session covers theoretical and computational methods for simulating material behavior, including density functional theory, molecular dynamics, and Monte Carlo simulations. Discussions may focus on computational and theoretical aspects of quantum materials, topological insulators, superconductors, and the design of novel electronic devices based on exotic phases of matter.

Key Areas: Density functional theory, Molecular dynamics, Monte Carlo simulations, Quantum algorithm, Quantum artificial intelligence (AI), Quantum circuit design.

1. Chair: Prof. Dr. Siriporn Jungsuttiwong (UBU) 
2. Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nawee Kungwan (CMU) 
3. Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Supareak Praserthdam (CU)
4. Co-chair: Dr. Supawadee Namuangruk (NECTEC)
5. Co-chair: Dr. Theerapong Puangmali (KKU)
6. Co-Chair: Dr. Kaito Takahashi, Institute of Atomic and Molecular Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taiwan

8. Advanced Materials Characterization with Synchrotron Radiation and State-of-the-art Instrumentation

Scope: This session is dedicated to the advanced characterization of materials using synchrotron radiation and cutting-edge instrumentation. Synchrotron radiation provides exceptional capabilities for exploring the structure, composition, and properties of materials at the nanoscale and beyond. The session will delve into the principles, techniques, and applications of characterization methods that rely on synchrotron radiation, along with the instrumentation required to perform advanced materials analysis, such as scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. We will also discuss advances in spectroscopic techniques, such as Raman spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, for analyzing the chemical properties and surface features of complex materials systems.

Key Areas: Microscopy Techniques: Scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy. Spectroscopic Techniques: Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, chemical mapping. Synchrotron Radiation Techniques: X-ray diffraction, absorption spectroscopy, photoelectron spectroscopy, small-angle X-ray scattering. Instrumentation and Setup: Beamline instrumentation, sample preparation, data acquisition. Materials Science Applications: Energy storage, structural analysis, nanoscale phenomena. Data Analysis Methods: Machine learning, visualization, theoretical modeling.

1. Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Prayoon Songsiriritthigul (SUT)
2. Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Anucha Watcharapasorn (CMU)
3. Co-Chair: Asst. Prof. Dr. Narit Triamnak (SU)
4. Co-Chair: Dr. Phakkhananan Pakawanit (SLRI)
5. Co-Chair: Chanchana Thanachayanont (MTEC)

9. Energy Harvesting and Energy Storage Materials and Technology

Scope: The development of efficient energy harvesting and storage solutions is critical for addressing global energy challenges. This session covers materials and devices for solar energy conversion, thermoelectric power generation, and advanced battery technologies. Discussions may include the design of next-generation photovoltaic materials, thermoelectric modules for waste heat recovery, and electrode materials for high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors.

Key Areas: Solar energy conversion, Thermoelectric power generation, Advanced battery technologies, Photovoltaic materials and system, Waste heat recovery, Electrode materials.

1. Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pongsakorn Kanjanaboos (MU)
2. Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Supab Choopun (CMU)
3. Co-Chair: Dr. Thitirat Charoonsuk (SWU)
4. Co-Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thapanee Sarakornsri (CMU)

10. Nanoengineering, Environmental and Green Materials for Sustainability

Scope: Nanoengineering offers promising solutions for addressing environmental and sustainability challenges through the development of green materials and technologies. This session explores the design and synthesis of catalysts, photocatalysts, nanomaterial-based sensors for environmental monitoring, catalytic systems for pollution remediation, renewable resources-based materials and nanostructured materials for sustainable agriculture and water purification. Discussions may focus on eco-design principles, and sustainable manufacturing processes for reducing carbon footprint, the integration of nanotechnology with renewable energy sources and circular economy principles to achieve a more sustainable future.

Key Areas: Nanomaterial-based sensors, Environmental monitoring, Rare-earth materials, Catalysts, Photocatalysts, Pollution remediation, Sustainable agriculture, Water purification, Renewable energy sources, Recyclable composites, Renewable resources-based materials, Life cycle assessments, Eco-design principles, Sustainable manufacturing processes, Circular economy

1. Chair: Prof. Dr. Oratai Jongprateep (KU)
2. Chair: Prof. Dr. Puangrat Kajitvichyanukul (CMU)
3. Co-Chair: Assist. Prof. Dr. Natthapong Wongdamnern (RMUTSB)
4. Co-Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burapat Inceesungvorn (CMU)

2.) Technical Symposia (From Co-Hosts, Global Leagues, Hub of Talents, and Hub of Knowledge)

1. Global Collaborations and Knowledge Exchange in Glass and Advanced Ceramics.

Supported by AcerS-Thailand Chapter and Promoting Thailand’s Advanced Ceramics Frontier Research in a Global Leagues (PMU B)

Scope: This session serves as a platform for fostering global collaborations and facilitating knowledge exchange within the glass and advanced ceramics community. It aims to bring together researchers, industry professionals, and academics from around the world to share insights, best practices, and innovative approaches in the field.

1. Chair: Prof. Dr. Jakrapong Kaewkhao (NPRU)
2. Co-chair: Prof. Dr. Supon Ananta (CMU)
3. Co-chair: Prof. Dr. Naratip Vittayakorn (KMITL)
4. Co-chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sirithan Jiemsirilers (CU)
5. Co-chair: Dr. Pinit kidkhunthod (SLRI)
6. Co-chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suchart Kothan (CMU)
7. Co-chair: Asst. Prof. Dr. Piyachart Meejitpaisan (NPRU)
8. Co-chair: Dr. Nuttawadee Intachai (CMU)

2. Critical Materials for Sustainable Development of Thailand

Supported by Rare-Earth Minerals Association and ACerS-Thailand Chapter

Scope: to address the crucial role of critical materials such as lithium, special metals (such as Cu, Ni, Fe), rare-earth elements, and other critical minerals in fostering the sustainable development of Thailand's industries, particularly in the sectors of electric vehicles (EV), electronics, and semiconductor industries. The symposium aims to provide a platform for experts, researchers, industry professionals, policymakers, and all relevant stakeholders to exchange knowledge on emerging issues and technologies, discuss challenges, and explore potential solutions related to the sustainable sourcing, utilization, and management of critical materials.

1. Chair: Prof. Dr. Rattikorn Yimnirun  (VISTEC)
2. Chair: Prof. Dr. Jakrapong Kaewkhao (NPRU)

3. Regional Symposium on Advanced Functional, Magnetic, Optical, Photonic, and Electronic Materials by IEEE Magnetics Society - Thailand Chapter 

Supported by IEEE  Magnetics Society - Thailand chapter.

Scope: The session  aims to explore the forefront of interdisciplinary research at the intersection  of spintronics, magnetism, and condensed matter physics, with a particular  focus on theoretical and computational approaches. Discussions will encompass  the latest advancements in advanced functional materials, delving into their  electrical, optical, and magnetic properties, while also addressing emerging  fields such as photonic crystals, nonlinear optics, and optoelectronics. Additionally,  attention will be directed towards innovations in advanced recording media and  energy materials, including fuel cells, photovoltaics, and various  nanogenerators, aiming to foster discussions on their application in  self-powered nanodevices and nanosystems for sustainable energy solutions.
Key Areas: Spintronics and  Magnetism, Theoretical and Computational Magnetism, Condensed Matter Physics,  Advanced Functional Materials, Electrical Properties of Materials, Optical  Properties of Materials, Magnetic Properties of Materials, Photonic Crystals,  Nonlinear Optics, Optical Nanostructures, Optoelectronics, Advanced Recording  Media, Energy Materials, Fuel Cells, Photovoltaics, Piezoelectric  Nanogenerators, Thermoelectric.

1. Chair: Prof.  Dr. Roy Chantrell (University of York, UK)
2. Chair: Prof.  Dr. Supon Ananta (CMU)
3. Co-Chair:  Assoc. Prof. Jessada Chureemart (MSU)
4. Co-Chair: Prof. Dr. Naratip Vittayakorn  (KMITL)
5. Co-Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr.  Phanwadee Chureemart (MSU)
6. Co-chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr.  Saichon Sriphan (KMUTNB)
7. Co-chair: Asst. Prof. Dr.  Sasipohn Praserpalichat (NU)
8. Co-chair: Dr. Satana Pongmapai  (KMUTT)

 4. Hub of Talents in Bioplastics for Use in Medical Applications (BioMED HUB)

Scope: The Hub of Talents in Bioplastics for Use in Medical Applications (BioMED HUB) is an interdisciplinary network of national and international institutions dedicated to developing and advancing expertise in bioplastics for medical use. BioMED HUB comprises 9 leading educational/research institutions in Thailand (CMU, CU, NU, NSTDA, MU, PSU, MFU, RMUTL, SU), 4 private sector collaborators and various international partners. BioMED HUB aims to enhance research skills in bioplastics for use in medical applications, increase the number of experts, and promote collaborative research. It prioritizes creating mechanisms for group development, providing researchers with opportunities to expand their knowledge, and the fostering of cutting-edge research. This session covers the design and development of bioplastic materials and medical devices for use in the associated industries. The primary objective is to reduce the country’s dependency on expensive imports in line with its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). To achieve this, BioMED HUB plans to establish new networks for collaborative projects with research groups both at home and abroad and, in doing so, promote knowledge transfer and the global advancement of research and innovation.

1. Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Winita Punyodom (CMU) 
2. Chair: Prof. Dr. Suwabun Chirachanchai (CU)
3. Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sukunya Ross (NU)
4. Chair: Dr. Robert Molloy (CMU)
5. Chair: Prof. Dr. Paul Topham (Aston University) 
6. Co-Chair: Dr. Adisorn Tuantranont (NSTDA)
7. Co-Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Panya Sunintaboon (MU)
8. Co-Chair: Asst. Prof. Dr. Patchara Punyamoonwongsa (MFU)
9. Co-Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sutinee Girdthep (SU)
10. Co-Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wanich Limwanich (RMUTL)
11. Co-Chair: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nattawut Thuaksuban (PSU)

 5. Optical-based sensors and devices: Platform for future optical sensing  

Supported by PMU-B Global Partnership

Scope: As sensing technology becomes increasingly crucial across various application fields, optical-based sensors have emerged as a leading platform. This symposium is dedicated to advancing the knowledge of optical-based sensors, particularly in the detection of biochemicals and viruses across gas, liquid, and solid mediums.

The sessions will cover a range of topics, including the development of material-based sensors, advancements in measurement devices, and innovations in data analysis and classification. This symposium offers a unique opportunity for students, experts, researchers, industry professionals, and other stakeholders to exchange insights on emerging technologies, discuss challenges, and explore solutions in the field of optical-based sensing. This platform aims to shape the future of sensing technologies through collaborative dialogue and knowledge sharing.

1. Chair: Dr. Noppadon Nuntawaong
2. Co-Chair Dr.Khwanchai Tantiwanichapan

Chair: Assoc.Prof.Dr. Duangmanee Wongratanaphisan (ThEP, CMU, Thailand)

Chair: Prof.Dr. Isao Watanabe (RIKEN, Japan)

Keynote speakers:  TBA

Invited Speakers: TBA

Participants:  Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, and others

(Possible presentation format may include talk/panel discussion/poster/booth-for deeptech prototypes/commercial applications)

Activities from various Centers of Excellence (COEs) at Chiang Mai University include organizing Start-Up and Deep-Tech Collaboration Panel Discussions, which aim to emphasize the university's Research Utilization and knowledge Management Scheme.

1. Start-Up and Deep-Tech Collaboration Session
2. Celebrate 60th Anniversary of CMU
3. Celebrate 20th Anniversary of SmartMat

 3) Special Activities to Celebrate 60th Anniversary of CMU and 20th Anniversary of SmartMat.

- Deep Tech and Innovation Showcases 

Keynote:

• Prof. Kenji Uchino, Ph.D., M.S., MBA, Pennsylvania State University, USA

• Prof. Ashish Mathur, Ph.D. University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, India

Invited Speaker:

• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Boonrat Lohwongwatana

• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pitiwat Wattanachai

• Saran Intakul, M.D.

• Lalitaya Kongkam, M.D.

• Mr. Wattanasit Pimpao

• Mr. Wichien Cherdchutrakuntong

• Mr. Klar Chirasanta

- Celebrating 60th Anniversary of CMU and 20th Anniversary of SmartMat: Past, Current and Future of Materials Science in CMU

Keynote:

• Prof. Emeritus Tawee Tunkasiri, Ph.D.

• Prof. Emeritus Thiraphat Vilaithong, Ph.D.

• Prof. Rattikorn Yimniran, Ph.D.

• Robert Molloy, Ph.D.

- Overview of research and innovations from Center of Excellence and Research Clusters at CMU

Invited Speaker:

• Prof. Emeritus Thiraphat Vilaithong, Ph.D.

• Prof. Pornchai Rachatanapan, Ph.D.

• Assoc. Prof. Winita Punyodom, Ph.D.

• Assoc. Prof. Kedsarin Pimraksa, Ph.D.

• Assoc. Prof. Thapanee Sarakornsri, Ph.D.

• Assoc. Prof. Jaroon Jakmunee, Ph.D.

• Phornsawat Baipaywad, Ph.D.

4.) Industrial Session

Solving materials analysis challenges through breakthroughs in combined SEM-EDS-EBSD

By Thermo Fisher Scientific

Scope: With a first of its kind integration of SEM, EDS and EBSD, Thermo Fisher Scientific removes the barriers that multiple component and software interfaces can bring to the SEM. More so, this integrated approach allows for Material Imaging with Live Chemical Analysis, utilizing the unique ChemiPhase EDS technology, as well as Structural Characterization utilizing the latest Direct Electron Detect EBSD technology.

This talk will go into the details of the above technologies, as well as provide insight in how these are applied in the analysis of some aluminum- and nickel-alloys, utilized in aerospace industry.

Speakers : 

Heijboer, Cees (Global Key Account Manager, Analytical Instruments Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific)