On 22 November 2016, the Molecular Technology Research Unit (MTRU) has been promoted to Functional Materials and Nanotechnology Center of Excellence (FuNTech). 

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The Molecular Technology Research Unit (MTRU) was established in 2007 by joining two research groups, Experimental Physics Research Unit and Molecular Design and Electrochemistry Laboratory. At that time there were 4 laboratories in our research unit:

• Plasma and Microwave Technology Laboratory

• Magnetic Materials Laboratory

• Acoustic Technology Laboratory

• Molecular Design and Electrochemistry Laboratory

 

In 2009, the Plasma and Microwave Technology Laboratory became the first Centre of Excellence in Walailak University namely, the Plasma Technology for Agricultural Applications Research Centre, Thailand Center of Excellence in Physics (ThEP). However, we still collaborate in research and academic activities. In 2021, we combined two centers together again. 

 

Currently, there are four research laboratories in our center of excellence with focus on frontier research in functional materials and applications in agriculture, environmental and medical. 

• Molecular Design & Multifunctional Materials Laboratory

• Porous and Functional Materials Laboratory

• Plasma and Electromagnetic Waves Research  Laboratory (PEwave)

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The main objectives for FuNTech are:

• Encourage and support the members to develop their research to an international standard.

• Train a new generation of researchers to be passionate and understand science and technology.

• Develop technology to solve local problems.

• Transfer research knowledge to other institutes or local organizations.

• Build research networks in and outside Thailand.

• Promote science and technology at university and high school levels.