Faculty of Engineering, Chiang Mai University Strengthens Academic and Research Collaboration in Japan
The Faculty of Engineering, Chiang Mai University (CMU), led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thongchai Fongsamootr, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, together with six members of the administrative team, conducted an official visit to Japan during 13–18 October 2025. The visit aimed at enhancing academic and research collaboration with leading educational institutions and industrial organizations, with a particular focus on advancing cooperation in semiconductor and smart mobility technologies — both recognized as key drivers of the next generation of industrial development.
A highlight of the mission was a courtesy visit to Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. at the Murata Innovation Museum, where the CMU delegation was warmly received by senior executives including Mr. Tsuneo Murata, Mr. Noriyuki Kubodera, Mr. Takanori Toi, Mr. Hirokazu Sasahara, and Mr. Banlue Chuenjitkultaworn. The meeting provided a valuable opportunity to exchange perspectives and explore future directions for technological collaboration between the two parties.
The delegation also visited Kyoto University, one of Japan’s most prestigious universities. The visit began with an introduction to the Institutional Advancement and Communications (IAC) office by Prof. Shunsaku Kimura, followed by a presentation on the International Science Innovation Building. The team then toured the Nanotechnology Hub led by Dr. Hiroshi Imamoto, a world-class research center in nanotechnology. In the afternoon, the delegation visited the Intelligent Robotics Lab hosted by Assistant Prof. Satoshi Yagi, and concluded the program with a visit to the Bio-materials Lab, where Prof. Hiroshi Kamitakahara presented ongoing research collaborations with the private sector.
In addition, the delegation paid a visit to Kindai University, where they were welcomed by Prof. Atsushi Sudo from the Faculty of Science and Engineering. The group participated in the KDIX Tour, a program showcasing the university’s Innovation and Technology Development Center. The visit emphasized the integration of engineering knowledge with real-world industrial applications and fostered direct discussions with researchers and technology developers at the university.
This official visit reflects the Faculty of Engineering’s strong commitment to fostering international partnerships and advancing excellence in education and research. By strengthening collaboration with global academic and industrial leaders, the faculty aims to enhance its capacity to address emerging global challenges and drive innovation for a sustainable future.
