The National Economic and Social Development Board (NESDB) of Thailand realized the importance of science and technology for the country’s development. In December 1991, the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) was established under the ministry of science and Technology by the special National Science and Technology Development Act, 1991. NSTDA is an autonomous entity reported to the governing body chaired by the Minister of Science and Technology.

 

The NSTDA is an umbrella organization that plans and executes four mandated missions research and development, technology transfer, human resources development and infrastructure development. NSTDA is comprised of four national R&D centers: the national center for Generic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTECH), the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (NANOTEC). In addition, NSTDA reaches out to other research organizations and universities through joint collaboration, contracted research, and other mechanics to ensure the best resources are being captured for the country’s innovation needs. To tie all these organizations together, the Technology Management Center (TMC) of NSTDA serves as a linkage between scientists and end users, and it provides applicable technology services.

 

In brief, NSTDA is a one of a kind national organization that distinguishes its roles from other research units in Thailand by acting as a bridge between the academic research and innovation requirements of industry.