BANGKOK, Thailand – Mahidol University has marked a significant moment in Thailand’s research landscape with the introduction of the first-ever “Mahidol University Jongjate Metheewit Award.” This new honor celebrates two exceptional researchers whose groundbreaking work has delivered meaningful, real-world impact and contributed to improving the lives of people in Thailand.
Professor Piyamitr Sritara, President of Mahidol University, explained that the award was inspired and supported by Police General Jongjate Ao-janepong, the former President of the Mahidol University Alumni Association under Royal Patronage. More than just a ceremonial accolade, the award is intended to drive Thai research beyond academic theory, transforming ideas into tangible solutions for society.
The 2025 Mahidol University Jongjate Metheewit Award was organized under the theme “Real-World Impact for Sustainability.” This year, two researchers received recognition for their outstanding contributions.
Dr. Viroj Tangcharoensatien from the International Health Policy Development Foundation received the Outstanding Researcher Award. He is widely acknowledged as a pioneer in public health and played a key role in the creation of Thailand’s Universal Health Coverage scheme.
The Young Researcher Award for 2025 was given to Associate Professor Dr. Varodom Chareonsawan from the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital. He is the lead researcher on a project titled “An Integrated Multidisciplinary Approach to Complex Biological Challenges for Advancing Human Health and Mitigating Climate Change.”
Mahidol University highlighted that the award-winning research must go beyond academic merit, demonstrating clear potential for real-world application. The focus is on tackling urgent challenges, promoting sustainability, advancing health equity, reducing social disparities, and driving innovation that leads to genuine transformation in people’s lives. (NNT)
