SUT Makes History: Prof. Dr. Rangsun Parnpai

Secures 14.9 Million Baht High-Potential Research Group Grant

Leading Innovation in Endangered Species Cloning: "Dairy Cows, Banteng, and Long-tailed Macaques" via Epigenetic Modification Technology

Suranaree University of Technology (SUT) reaffirms its excellence in biotechnology as Professor Dr. Rangsun Parnpai, from the School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural Technology, has been awarded the prestigious “High-Potential Research Group Grant” for 2026. The grant, totaling 14,976,000 Baht, is a collaborative initiative between the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) and the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA). Prof. Dr. Rangsun is the first researcher from SUT to receive this top-tier funding.

Breakthrough in Embryo Production Efficiency The funded research project, titled "Enhancing Efficiency of Cloned Embryo Production in Cattle, Banteng, and Long-tailed Macaques through Two-Step Epigenetic Modification of Donor Cell Genomes," builds upon the extensive expertise of Prof. Dr. Rangsun, who was previously honored as the National Outstanding Researcher (Agriculture and Biology) in 2021.

This research focuses on overcoming the complexities of animal cloning at the genetic level to significantly increase embryo success rates. The outcomes are expected to yield a high impact on the conservation of endangered wildlife and the development of high-value livestock.

A Grant for Global Competitiveness The High-Potential Research Group Grant is designed for senior researchers with proven international track records and robust research teams. It aims to support outstanding groups in Science, Technology, Social Sciences, and Humanities that can compete globally and create significant national and international socio-economic impacts. With a maximum of only three grants awarded per year (at least one of which must support a National Outstanding Researcher), the funding provides up to 15 million Baht over a 3-year period.

SUT Among Thailand’s Research Elite The NRCT categorizes research grants based on potential and experience, ranging from Graduate/PHD levels to the High-Potential Research Group Grant (the highest tier at 15 million Baht). By securing this grant, SUT joins an elite group of Thai institutions previously recognized, including Mahidol University, Kasetsart University, Chulalongkorn University, Khon Kaen University, KMUTT, BIOTEC (NSTDA), and NIDA.

This achievement reflects SUT’s world-class research standards and its readiness to compete on the global stage. This success is more than a milestone for the university; it represents a critical step for Thailand in utilizing advanced biotechnology for the sustainability of biological resources and the national economy.

Division of Public Relations

Suranaree University of Technology

 March 23, 2026