On March 11, 2026, Associate Professor Dr. Nirundorn Matan, Head of the Center of Excellence in Wood and Biomaterials, Walailak University, welcomed faculty members and researchers from Kasetsart University, Chulalongkorn University, and a research team from Sweden (EIF) during their visit to Walailak University to study and exchange knowledge on the mechanical testing of structural timber and oil palm wood.
The visit focused on knowledge and experience sharing in the field of wood material properties, particularly mechanical testing of timber used for structural applications. Special attention was also given to oil palm wood, a significant biomass resource in southern Thailand with strong potential for value-added development through research and innovation in materials engineering.
During the visit, the researchers exchanged knowledge on testing methods, analysis of wood properties, and the application of engineering tools and processes to evaluate the strength and suitability of wood materials for various applications. These activities are expected to contribute to the advancement of research on wood and biomaterials while enhancing the efficiency and reliability of material testing in accordance with relevant standards.
The visit also provided an important opportunity to strengthen academic and research collaboration among Walailak University, leading universities in Thailand, and international researchers. Such cooperation may lead to future joint research projects, knowledge exchange, and further development of structural timber and biomaterial technologies.
The Center of Excellence in Wood and Biomaterials, Walailak University, remains committed to advancing research and innovation that create added value from biological resources. The Center also continues to promote collaboration with national and international research networks in order to generate knowledge that can be effectively applied and contribute to sustainable development in the future.
On August 10, 2026, the Center of Excellence in Wood and Biomaterials, Walailak University, welcomed Prof. Katsuya Teshima and a delegation from the Institute for Aqua Regeneration, Shinshu University, Japan, during their visit to Walailak University to discuss opportunities for academic and research collaboration between the two institutions.
The discussion covered several potential areas of cooperation, including joint research projects, researcher and faculty exchanges, as well as student exchange opportunities at both undergraduate and graduate levels. These initiatives aim to provide faculty members, researchers, and students with opportunities to gain international academic and research experience while promoting the exchange of knowledge and expertise between the two universities.
Both parties also discussed opportunities to support students through cooperative education programs and research-based internships, enabling students to gain practical experience in an international academic and research environment.
Another important topic of discussion was the possibility of establishing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to provide a formal framework for long-term academic and research cooperation between Walailak University and Shinshu University. The proposed collaboration would support joint research activities, academic exchanges, and the development of future collaborative initiatives.
In addition, the two institutions explored opportunities to jointly develop research proposals and apply for national and international research funding. Such collaboration would facilitate the sharing of research expertise, resources, and knowledge, while enhancing the potential to produce high-quality research with broader academic and societal impact.
This meeting represents another significant step for the Center of Excellence in Wood and Biomaterials, Walailak University, in expanding its international research network and strengthening collaboration with leading universities abroad. It also lays a strong foundation for sustainable cooperation in research, education, personnel development, and student mobility between Walailak University and Shinshu University in the future.
On Thursday, December 4, 2025, the Center of Excellence in Wood and Biomaterials, Walailak University, welcomed Prof. Dr. Jacques Noordermeer and a delegation from Prince of Songkla University on the occasion of their visit to the Center’s laboratory and research facilities.
The visit provided an opportunity for the delegation to learn about the Center’s research activities related to wood, biomaterials, and material development for various applications. The visitors were introduced to laboratory equipment, research facilities, testing procedures, and analytical methods used to support research in wood and biomaterial science.
During the visit, researchers and participants exchanged knowledge and experiences in relevant research areas, including material testing, analysis, and the application of scientific and engineering approaches to the development of advanced materials. The discussion also covered potential directions for further academic and research collaboration between the institutions.
The laboratory visit served as an important platform for strengthening academic networks and promoting the exchange of expertise among researchers. Such collaboration can contribute to the development of new research ideas, enhance research capabilities, and create opportunities for future joint research projects and academic activities.
The Center of Excellence in Wood and Biomaterials, Walailak University, remains committed to advancing research and innovation in wood and biomaterials. The Center also continues to promote collaboration with academic institutions and research networks in order to support knowledge development, practical applications, and the sustainable use of biological resources.