History of the Department of Biotechnology

Department's Genesis: February 7, 2007

The Department of Biotechnology was officially established on February 7, 2007, stemming from the dedication of a group of faculty and staff specializing in biotechnology, who separated from the Department of Agro-Industry (now the Department of Agro-Industry, Food, and Environment), under the leadership of the Faculty of Applied Science.

This establishment aligned with the Faculty's policy to expand its potential and accommodate the growth in teaching and research, especially in the field of "Biotechnology," an integrated discipline playing a crucial role in driving industries related to food, agriculture, energy, and health, both domestically and internationally.

Vision and Pioneering

During the pioneering era, Asst. Prof. Witthaya Leklai played a significant role in laying the foundation and setting the direction for the department. He, along with eight other pioneering faculty members, including Assoc. Prof. Sopa Klinjan, Asst. Prof. Dr. Penja Jittamroonchokchai, Asst. Prof. Thanuwat Laptanusuphol, Asst. Prof. Dr. Sumonthip Kongtanjanchunfuk, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sasithorn Kongruang, Asst. Prof. Dr. Chatchawan Singhaapol, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Benjamaporn Wong-anu, worked to build a strong and stable academic base.

First Steps of Students and Curriculum

A key inspiration for driving the department was the first cohort of 150 undergraduate (BT) students. The department launched a "Biotechnology" curriculum that integrates knowledge from biological science, chemistry, engineering, and production technology, aiming to produce graduates with the potential to genuinely advance research and develop products in the industrial sector.

Facility Development and Curriculum Expansion

Initially, the department did not have a permanent space. Faculty offices were scattered within the Department of Agro-Industry, and the departmental administrative office was located in Room 313, 3rd Floor, Building 78, before moving to its own space on the 5th and 7th Floors of Building 72, which has become the learning hub for ‘BT Department’ to this day.

Not stopping at the undergraduate level, the department continued to expand its academic potential to the graduate level, launching a Master's degree program in 2016 and further developing with a Doctoral degree program in 2023, reflecting its continuous growth and commitment to becoming a leader in biotechnology in the country.