VNU350 PROJECT: ENABLING SCIENTISTS TO PURSUE NEW RESEARCH DIRECTIONS

The VNU350 Project brings opportunities to patriotic young people to pursue their dreams and contribute to the country's development. Seizing this opportunity, many talented scientists with doctoral degrees from prestigious universities around the world have chosen VNUHCM as home for their future careers.

Listen to the sharing of these scientists to understand more about the VNU350 Project as well as their aspirations to contribute to the country's educational career.

* Dr. Tran Huynh Nguyen Khanh - Pharmaceutical field, Daegu Catholic University, South Korea

Opportunity to pursue my research passion

I know that VNUHCM is recruiting young researchers under the VNU350 Project with many research support opportunities. 

I see the VNU350 Project as a great opportunity for me to pursue my dreams and research passion. I feel privileged to work in the professional environment of VNUHCM, learn from senior professors, and apply natural resources from Vietnam to treat diseases in humans, which brings personal happiness and hope for my family.

I am excited to apply for the VNU350 program, hoping to work and contribute here to the development of my career.

* Dr. Hoang Tung - Innovative medical sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, South Korea

Accompanying scientific research development

After working and studying in South Korea for a while, I have a desire to return to Vietnam to work in an educational and academic environment.

I hope that at the Faculty of Medicine, VNUHCM, I can receive guidance and accompany senior colleagues in conveying knowledge to students as well as developing scientific research activities in the Department.

* Dr. Tran Thi Thuy Linh - Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Paris-sud University, France

The VNU350 Project is an opportunity to renew myself

After returning to Vietnam, I looked for a research and teaching environment to continue developing myself and my career. Recognizing that the VNU350 Project is opening up at the right time when I want to change my working environment, for me, the VNU350 Project is an opportunity to challenge and renew myself more in research and contribute more to continue research concurrently with teaching and training.

With an open attitude towards learning and working, I believe that with my academic qualifications and extensive experience, I will be a suitable candidate for this position. I always believe that I will make a meaningful contribution in the field of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Medicine, and the environment, and VNUHCM will provide the best conditions for me to develop, bring new values, and contribute more to my research career and human resource development career.

* Prof. Thai Khac Minh - Pharmaceutical field, University of Vienna, Austria

Aspiring to contribute to the development of the Faculty of Medicine, VNUHCM

I have learned that VNUHCM has policies to attract, retain, and develop outstanding young scientists, leading scientists to work at VNUHCM under the VNU350 project.

I hope that with my experience as a professor specializing in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, I will contribute to the future development of the Faculty of Medicine, VNUHCM in university education, postgraduate education, and scientific research.

* Dr. Vu Gia Phong - Biochemistry at UC Berkeley, USA

Planning to develop diagnostic and molecular therapy methods

The VNU350 Project offers many opportunities for young people who love their homeland like me to contribute and lend a hand to the country's development. 

When the Infectious Disease Research Center was established by VNUHCM, I proactively contacted to learn and then decided to apply for the research team leader position at the center through VNUHCM's VNU350 program. This program brings many values and opportunities for young people who love their homeland like us to contribute to the country.

Currently, in Vietnam and the world, there are not many research groups mastering molecular pulling technologies. As one of the experienced scientists in designing and applying these modern techniques, I hope that through the Infectious Disease Research Center of VNUHCM, I can use my knowledge and experience to develop accurate diagnostic and molecular therapy methods for Vietnam.

Dr. Vu Gia Phong is among the few postgraduate students to receive a full scholarship after graduation from UC Berkeley. In 2014, he was also one of four outstanding doctoral students to receive the Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award from the Office of the President of the University of California. During his doctoral studies, he was assigned to develop and implement safety protocols in animal research at the UC Berkeley laboratory. He has published 18 scientific papers, of which 16 were Q1 and 3 were published in the PNAS journal. 

Trong thời gian làm tiến sĩ, anh được giao nhóm phát triển và thực hiện giao thức an toàn trong nghiên cứu động vật tại phòng thí nghiệm của ĐH UC Berkeley. Anh đã công bố 18 bài báo khoa học, trong đó 16 bài thuộc Q1 và 3 bài được đăng trên tạp chí PNAS.

* Dr. Nguyen Van Chi - Department of Chemical Engineering, National University of Science and Technology, Taiwan

Applying for a researcher position at INOMAR Center

I think the VNU350 project, aimed at attracting young scientists, is a great opportunity for me to develop my research career. Therefore, I wish to apply for the Researcher position at the Center for Nano and Molecular Materials Structure Research. With experience in scientific research, international publications, and training, I believe I am suitable for the center's criteria.

* Assoc. Prof. Nguyen Thi Anh Nhu, Finance Faculty, Tomas Bata University, Czech Republic 

Becoming a leading scientist in the field of economics and finance

I participate in applying for the VNU350 Project as a leading scientist.

I have learned that VNUHCM aims to become a leading research university in Asia. Working in such a professional academic environment, along with my own experiences and experiences, has encouraged me to nurture ambitious plans and dreams to carry out larger-scale research projects with more contributions to the community.

Along with that, I aim to become a leading scientist in the field of economics and finance, especially in-depth research on personal finance and green finance. Research projects from these projects will be published in leading reputable journals. On the career development path, I dream and strive step by step to reach the highest level in the scientific title.

Participating in the VNU350 Project with funding and support policies from VNUHCM will create favorable conditions for me to realize my dreams and plans.

* Dr. Truong Ngoc Cuong graduated in Logistics at Korea Maritime and Ocean University

Aspiring to return to Vietnam to contribute

I have always aspired to return to Vietnam to research and contribute to the country's development and innovation. With the experience accumulated during my work in logistics-developed countries like South Korea, I choose to continue my career at the University of Technology.

I will maximize my capabilities to create highly applicable products, thereby contributing to enhancing the research capacity and technology transfer of VNUHCM.

I believe that with breakthrough mechanisms and policies, along with special attention from VNUHCM's leadership to outstanding young scientists under the VNU350 project, I will be able to fully exploit my research passion and capabilities to create new values, useful products for practical life, contributing to realizing VNUHCM's vision of becoming a leading research university in Asia.

* Dr. Pham Toan Thang - Architectural Engineering field, Sejong University, South Korea

Desiring to develop a career at VNU-HCM

I have always had the desire to teach and develop my career in Ho Chi Minh City. I heard about the VNU350 Project from a colleague working at the University of Technology. Since then, I have been very interested and eager to become a lecturer in the Mechanical Engineering field of the University.

Being assigned to the University of Technology, this is an opportunity for me to participate and contribute to VNU-HCM. 

* Dr. Le Trung Hoang - Computer Science field, Singapore Management University

VNUHCM lays the foundation for research passion

I once interned as a research assistant at the John von Neumann Institute of VNUHCM. The internship here laid the foundation for my research passion in the following years. I am passionate about researching data science and artificial intelligence. 

I am confident that my expertise in data science and artificial intelligence as well as scientific research can help the Faculty of Natural Sciences, especially VNUHCM, develop and aim to complete the goals of the VNU350 project.

* Dr. Tran Minh Tuan - Crop disease field, University of Wisconsin Madison, USA

Contributing to interdisciplinary research 

Being assigned to the University of Science, I believe I will produce great results, contribute to interdisciplinary research at VNUHCM. I hope to have the opportunity to contribute expertise to the scientific research community in Vietnam and at VNUHCM.

I possess interdisciplinary expertise along with extensive international research experience and being an advisor to students. This is a good asset for me when undertaking tasks at VNUHCM.

* Dr. Cao Thi Thuy Nhu - Economic Law field, University of Economics and Law, VNU-HCM

Aspiring to develop myself and support colleagues 

I have learned that VNUHCM's VNU350 Project aims to attract, retain, and develop outstanding young scientists, leading scientists in working with appropriate remuneration policies.

With 10 years of experience in the education sector along with knowledge, research skills formed during training, I believe that I will meet job requirements after being recruited.

I hope that with my capacity, experience, and dedication, I will be a suitable candidate for the position of Law Lecturer under the VNU350 program. I will strive to develop myself, support colleagues, and contribute to the common research goal of the professional unit and the university.

* Dr. Pham Ngoc Thanh - Precision Science and Applied Physics field, Osaka University, Japan

Aspiring to develop a curriculum in material technology training in the future

I believe that my experience and knowledge will be a valuable asset for the position of Lecturer in Materials Science, and I am very much looking forward to the opportunity to participate and contribute to the academic community at An Giang University. In addition, I hope to develop a curriculum in material technology training in the future.

* Dr. Huynh Thi Bich Ngoc - Energy and Chemical Engineering field, Incheon National University, South Korea

VNUHCM is the best place for me to develop

I hope to bring the knowledge I have learned abroad to teach and serve in Vietnam, contributing to the development of the country's scientific and technological foundation. This has prompted me to apply for the VNU350 Project of VNUHCM.

VNUHCM's VNU350 Project will provide the best conditions for me to develop, bring about improvements, and useful applications for humans. I believe that our responsibility is to dedicate our lives to create a brighter future, not only for ourselves but also for our descendants. We must make them proud when looking back at the past and appreciate how hard our ancestors worked to create such a beautiful world as today.

MAKING BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING "FAMILIAR" TO VIETNAM

Prof. Vo Van Toi, former head of Biomedical Engineering department at VNUHCM-International University, is known as the pioneer who established the first program in biomedical engineering in Vietnam.

Precisely 10 years after his return to work in Vietnam, sharing with Tuoi Tre newspaper, Professor Vo Van Toi said: "Before I returned to the country, the field of biomedical engineering was almost unknown. But now its name has become familiar in society. Many universities have also opened this major, and the international academic community is also aware of Vietnam's biomedical engineering."

RETURNING TO THE COUNTRY BECAUSE OF "VIETNAMESE STUDENTS WERE FAILING"

*Once selected by U.S. President G. Bush as the Executive Director of the Vietnam Education Foundation (VEF) in 2007, why did you unexpectedly decide to return to the country in 2009 and join VNUHCM-International University?

– Professor Vo Van Toi: One of VEF's initiatives is to send students to study abroad at prestigious U.S. universities. That's a good thing, but more importantly for me is how to bring talented individuals back to contribute to building our country. While not many people return, and many who do return end up leaving again. Therefore, I wanted to experience it myself to understand.

Before returning, thanks to frequent travels to Vietnam and interactions with many people in the academic community, I learned a lot about Vietnamese youth and the working environment. I noticed many challenges but also many opportunities for success or at least opportunities to pursue the dreams I had cherished.

My motto is "adapt to circumstances" and "whatever happens, it's okay." And I chose International University as my "destination." Since then, for me, every passing day is a happy day.

*You founded the biomedical engineering program at Tufts University (USA) and have been honored many times in the U.S. with a series of biomedical inventions. Why do you want to bring this new field to Vietnam?

– Before returning to the country in 2004, I led a delegation of professors in biomedical engineering from the United States from North to South to explore the potential development of this field in Vietnam. Biomedical engineering was still relatively new abroad at that time but was developing strongly and had a lot of potential.

We discovered that in Vietnam, there are many activities related to biomedical engineering, but they have not been systematized and popularized. On the other hand, I realized that this is a field that meets many urgent needs as well as the future of our country. After this trip, our delegation proposed a five-year plan to help develop biomedical engineering in Vietnam.

*How did you bring biomedical engineering to Vietnam?

– First, I brought four students to Tufts University, where I was teaching, to train them in the Ph.D. program with the hope that they would become pioneers in biomedical engineering in Vietnam. However, these students were subsequently removed from the program one by one because they did not meet the requirements for scientific research. This surprised me because other Vietnamese students were very successful in many other scientific and technical fields.

I believe perhaps the mindset of these students in this field does not align with the mindset of students trained in Vietnam. This is also one of the reasons that drove me back to Vietnam.

Currently, many of our graduates have been very successful with postgraduate scholarships in this field from many universities worldwide, including Tufts University. This shows that our youth, when properly prepared, can achieve anything they want. I hope they will return to continue the path that we have set together.

In addition, our young lecturers and students have won many prestigious international awards. This demonstrates that Vietnamese youth are a powerful force helping us stand shoulder to shoulder with friends from around the world in the spirit of international integration.

UNIVERSITY SHOULD BE AN INCUBATOR FOR CREATIVE IDEAS

*Working in the university environment in Vietnam, what differences do you see compared to other countries? You have said that educators must anticipate what will happen to create demand. Has Vietnamese education achieved this?

– The academic environment should be an incubator for creative ideas and a training ground for talent. Therefore, universities need academic freedom to experiment with new ideas. In foreign universities that I know of, the institutions determine their own development direction, and lecturers have a lot of authority to implement initiatives ranging from creating new majors to research, and management primarily serves rather than commands. When these initiatives succeed, they will automatically be extended beyond the scope of the university.

*In the past 10 years, besides teaching, you and your colleagues have researched a series of products. It is known that you will soon bring these academic research products to the market. Is this a separate way out for scientific research at universities?

– I call bringing academic research products to the market "Người thầu khoán" - "entrepreneurship." In the scientific environment, ideal entrepreneurs are those who can turn scientific discoveries at the laboratory into products in the market.

Similar to entrepreneurs, those who engage in entrepreneurship need scientific and technical knowledge as well as research market methods, establish startups, and have organizational and business skills.

The vision of International University's biomedical engineering department from its inception is the combination of education, research, and entrepreneurship. Education to train personnel, research to develop knowledge, and entrepreneurship for self-reliance. These three factors support each other and blur the boundaries between basic and applied fields.

Source: Tuoitre Newspaper

Original article: https://tuoitre.vn/gs-vo-van-toi-ve-nuoc-vi-sinh-vien-viet-nam-that-bai-20190514003212027.htm

VIETNAM - THE NUMBER ONE CHOICE

Despite being offered may opportunities to work abroad, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Thu Hoai has never thought of not returning to Vietnam.

As the recipient of the L'Oréal - UNESCO Women in Science Award in 2023, her choice has always been Vietnam. "Everyone has their own path, but my direction is to bring back what I have learned to serve the country," affirmed Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Thu Hoai.

Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Thu Hoai (sitting) just won the L'Oréal - UNESCO Women in Science Award in 2023.

The Deputy Director of Research Center for Infectious Diseases at VNUHCM-International University admitted that she has had a passion for biology since childhood. The marvels of human thought have continually fascinated her. Dr. Thu Hoai expressed, "I want to find out why humans can think and calculate while other organisms cannot."

As a scientist born in 1981, she dreamed of becoming a neurologist from a young age, even though no one in her family pursued a medical career. In high school, she chose the specialized biology class at Nguyen Trai High School in Hai Duong province.

In grade 11, Thu Hoai won third prize in the national excellent student competition. The following year, she won second prize nationally and was one of four students to represent Vietnam at the International Biology Olympiad in Sweden. With commendations from the organizers of this highly competitive exam, she was admitted directly to the talented scientist bachelor's program at the University of Science, Vietnam National University.

"I once dreamed of becoming a neurologist, but during university, I became fascinated by immunology," confessed Thu Hoai. "I chose biochemistry because this field has high applicability, and also because I love immunology."

After graduating from Vietnam National University, Thu Hoai went to Germany to pursue her Ph.D. in Medicine at the University of Greifswald. Five years later, with her thesis on "Antibody response to artificially induced Staphylococcus aureus infections," she earned her Ph.D. at the age of 27.

Thu Hoai admitted that her scientific research path has encountered numerous strokes of luck and convenience, opening up many opportunities to work in developed countries. However, she emphasized that she has never considered staying in Germany or any other country, always wanting to return to Vietnam to work and contribute.

Returning from Germany, Thu Hoai returned to the medical laboratory at the University of Science – Vietnam National University. Afterwards, she went to the Taiwan Health Institute - China for a period of study and then to Belgium for 2 years of further research.

In 2011, Thu Hoai decided to settle at the Faculty of Biotechnology, VNUHCM-International University. She is currently the head of the medical microbiology research group at the faculty. Her research focuses on drug resistance mechanisms, bacterial toxins, antibacterial compounds, cancer, and the immune system.

Recalling her journey, Thu Hoai stated, "At first, I only intended to stay in Ho Chi Minh City for a short time, but then I found it very enjoyable because of the comfortable weather and the open-minded people. There, I have talented and friendly colleagues, an excellent working environment, and a good salary, despite the research conditions not being favorable due to general difficulties."

According to Thu Hoai, achieving high-level research is not easy in current conditions due to a lack of technology. So far, she still does not have her own laboratory and has to use a shared one. She said, "I have to overcome this by seeking help, conducting experiments abroad. Every year, I spend a few weeks abroad to carry out my research. Fortunately, the university provides conditions and supports us a lot."

After 15 years of pursuing protein research (proteomics) and drug resistance, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Thu Hoai has just been awarded the L'Oréal - UNESCO Women in Science Award in 2023.

Thu Hoai's research in recent years has focused on developing new tests to quickly detect the presence of antibiotic resistance genes directly in clinical samples, providing better support for doctors in drug-resistant diagnosis, contributing significantly to community health protection.

Antibiotic resistance is currently a serious medical issue. Without effective intervention, it is estimated that by 2050, antibiotic resistance will cause 10 million deaths annually.

According to Thu Hoai, one of the solutions to reducing antibiotic resistance is to develop rapid, timely, and accurate diagnostic methods to support the formulation of effective treatment regimens. In addition, there need to be measures to isolate and reduce the spread of multidrug-resistant strains.

Thu Hoai's award-winning research is "Development of a process for detecting antibiotic resistance genes (ARG) of Pseudomonas aeruginosa directly from clinical samples using digital droplet PCR technique." P. aeruginosa is a bacterium that causes many infectious diseases. In some reports, it is the number one cause of pneumonia and respiratory failure.

P. aeruginosa is also one of the 6 groups/species in the WHO's ESKAPE list that can seriously threaten community health due to its multidrug resistance. This ability comes from many different genes, some of which have a significant impact on resistance to important drugs in treatment.

Thu Hoai's research applies digital droplet PCR, a new nucleic acid amplification technology. This is a technology with high sensitivity, accuracy, reproducibility, and the ability to quantify even at very low concentrations and works well with clinical samples. Because it is a new technology and there is no budget to buy equipment, she uses partner resources to conduct research.

The diagnostic procedures and methods for drug resistance that Thu Hoai has researched since studying at the Catholic University of Louvain - Belgium in 2010. Later, she continued to study drug resistance mechanisms at the US National Institutes of Health in 2020. Every year, she tries to spend time exploring and learning in developed countries to improve her research and keep up with technology.

Referring to future research directions, Thu Hoai hopes that, in addition to application, she can also collaborate with partners to improve, and even develop new technologies. "The short-term plan is to continue basic research as I have been doing, while simultaneously conducting applied research. Because applying scientific results to life is the goal of every scientist," she emphasized.

Source: Nguoi Lao dong Newspaper

Original article: https://nld.com.vn/viet-nam-lua-chon-so-1-196240206095500521.htm?fbclid=IwAR0BiSp-3H0qY6c_VKFzaeafD66lRyc7EJaKz9iLXrmnFSZaQzTFGXi-uKk

WOMAN PROFESSOR OF CHEMISTRY FROM "NOODLE LOVER" TO KOVALEVSKAYA AWARD WINNER

On May 16th, in Hanoi, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Thanh Mai - Vice President of VNUHCM-University of Science, Vice Principal of the Gifted High School, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, was honored to receive the 2021 Kovalevskaya Award from the Vietnam Kovalevskaya Award Committee for her outstanding achievements in scientific research and its practical application, bringing many benefits across various aspects of life.

Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Thanh Mai (wearing a red traditional dress) receiving the Kovalevskaya Award.

The Award is a great motivation

Back in 1992, when choosing a university, young student Thanh Mai never thought she would become a lecturer, a scientist as she is now. She only remembers her fondness for noodles and her simple wish to work in the field of food processing, so she applied for the Chemistry major at the University of Sciences, now VNUHCM-University of Science.

As she continued her studies, Associate Professor Dr. Thanh Mai grew to love the field of chemistry, especially analytical chemistry, so she delved deeper into research. To date, she has discovered hundreds of new compounds with various biological effects from medicinal herbs, led and completed 14 research projects at various levels: 10 at the national level (7 at Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City and 3 funded by Nafosted), and 4 at the provincial level. She has published 135 scientific papers, including 75 in international journals and 66 in national journals. Additionally, she has authored specialized books and textbooks, has 2 patents accepted by the Intellectual Property Office, and is the head of a strong research group under the University's Drug Chemistry Research Program in 2020.

Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thi Thanh Mai shared: "When I received the news of being considered for the Kovalevskaya Award, I was deeply moved because my efforts in training and scientific research over the years have been recognized by the Vietnam Kovalevskaya Award Committee in 2021. Initially, I was not very confident in submitting my application because this is a prestigious award for female scientists, but thanks to the encouragement of my colleagues, I decided to submit it in the end. This is a great motivation for me to continue my educational and scientific career."

Researching Cancer-Fighting Compounds and Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment

As an avid seeker and researcher of medicinal herbs, Professor Thanh Mai collaborated with Toyama University, Japan, to search for medicinal herbs and active ingredients that have toxic effects on pancreatic cancer cells in nutrient-deficient environments. From this program, her research team discovered many new compounds with previously unseen structures worldwide. Particularly, the active ingredient from the Cyperus rotundus root, grown in An Giang, has a very strong toxic effect on pancreatic cancer cells. "In this study, we discovered 21 new compounds and 36 compounds with strong pancreatic cancer-fighting effects. From there, we researched the extraction and successfully synthesized nano-products that support the treatment of digestive tract cancer," Professor Thanh Mai enthusiastically explained.

Moreover, this scientist from Quang Ngai Province also researches products that support the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Her research team has developed nano-products from the ivy gourd plant with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, as well as studied the technology of extracting bee venom and evaluating its anti-inflammatory effects on experimental animals.

The research results of Associate Professor Dr. Thanh Mai and her team have provided scientific evidence for the use of herbal medicine in disease treatment. She said: "Health support products are being researched for commercialization as well as further in-depth research to develop disease treatment drugs." This is also Professor Mai's greatest desire after her basic research projects.

"Seeing Dr. Mai is feeling at ease..."

In addition to scientific research, Professor Thanh Mai also undertakes management tasks. Since January 2022, the 48-year-old female Vice Principal of the University of Natural Sciences has been appointed as Principal of the Gifted High School. Like other working parents, she still has the daily duty of picking up her child and doing household chores. She stated that her new responsibilities have made her very busy because she has to familiarize herself with many new tasks. However, over the past 15 years, she has built a professional research team, so despite being busy, Professor Mai still finds time to monitor research activities and maximize online channels to discuss any issues that arise in her team's research. Thus, her research team always completes their research plans.

To balance multiple tasks simultaneously, the Principal of the Gifted High School shared: "Truly, every field demands concentration, depth, and fulfilling one's responsibilities. With the rapid changes and developments in society today, both research and management work must change and develop as well. However, for me, scientific research is a field that has been systematically trained for many years, while management work is quite extensive, requiring learning, accumulating experience, and taking more time. I am fortunate to have colleagues who always agree and work together to balance both tasks and achieve high efficiency."

Dr. Phan Thi Anh Dao - Lecturer at HCMC University of Technology and Education, said: "Ms. Mai was my doctoral supervisor. She is very enthusiastic and caring for her students. In her work, she is decisive and resolves tasks clearly, effectively, and quickly. I remember during my dissertation, I encountered some difficulties, sometimes felt pessimistic and didn't know what to do next. However, when I discussed with her, her problem-solving approach not only resolved the difficulties but also made me more optimistic. Especially, I learned from her how to nurture passion, self-breakthrough, develop, and perfect myself after graduation, returning to inspire my own students."

Sharing the same sentiment, Le Huu Tho - Lecturer at the Faculty of Chemistry, VNUHCM-University of Science, is excited to talk about his mentor: "In fact, any student who has studied under and been guided by Ms. Mai would truly be very proud because she is amazing. To me, she is like a great "guru" because she has enabled me to explore a vast knowledge of Drug Chemistry, allowed me to unleash my creativity, taught me how to nurture passion, self-breakthrough, develop, and perfect myself."

"Ms. Mai is a very fair person. Right is right, and wrong is wrong. But if you're wrong, she will point it out, guide you, and find ways to remedy it, never abandoning you. If you lack confidence: meet Ms. Mai. If you lack motivation: meet Ms. Mai. If you're puzzled about a new idea: meet Ms. Mai. If you need help, even if it's not her area of expertise, still meet Ms. Mai. She will provide you with a foundation, and you will go further than you thought. In general, seeing Ms. Mai at the Faculty, we are confident in every aspect," Tho affirmed.

Source: VNUHCM

Original article: https://vnuhcm.edu.vn/tin-tuc_32343364/nu-giao-su-hoa-hoc-tu-thich-an-mi-tom-den-dat-giai-thuong-kovalevskaia-danh-gia/343430393364.html

Helping the World Understand Vietnamese Culture

Prof. Tho and Prof. Lauren Meeker, New York University at New Paltz

From 2017 to 2021, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Tho was continuously invited by three universities in the United States to conduct research and was arranged to present research results on Vietnamese culture in the context of East Asia and Southeast Asia at Harvard University, Boston University, and Brandeis University. During this time, he was also invited to present research projects at Cornell University and the University of California, Los Angeles. Before that, Dr. Tho was regularly invited by some universities and institutes in China, Thailand, and Taiwan to give lectures or teach about Vietnamese culture.

According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tho, in East Asia, Europe, and America, some departments and centers at universities offer Vietnamese language and Vietnamese culture courses, with prestigious Vietnamese studies journals. Currently, Vietnam is developing its economy rapidly, integrating strongly after reforms, and its international position is growing. Many international scholars see Vietnam's development model as quite successful and want to research, analyze, and dissect the changes in the country and its people.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tho recounts a touching story: "Many years ago, I went to Bangkok and saw a large billboard in the city with Thai writing but featuring an image of a Vietnamese girl wearing an áo dài. Surprised, I asked my Thai colleague, who told me it was their reminder, roughly meaning: yesterday, the Vietnamese were asleep, today they have awakened and are preparing to accelerate. Thais must know how to do it!"

Discovering the Depth of Vietnamese Culture

While in the United States, Dr. Tho found many documents and books scarcely available in Vietnam that wrote about Vietnam during the integration period, opening up the depth of Vietnam's relations with the region and the world.

"Before going abroad to research or teach, I asked myself many questions about the essence, the soul of Vietnamese culture. What sets Vietnam apart from the region and the world? Cultural essence can be expressed in various aspects such as cuisine, clothing, rituals, religious practices, and communication culture..., but behind and above that, there must be depth of thought, intelligence. When stepping out into the world, I realized more clearly that we should not hastily conclude that the good and beautiful things manifested through these specific aspects are the essence," recalls Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tho.

After many years of research, Dr. Tho found the answer. He reflects, "The good and beautiful aspects of Vietnamese culture lie in the depth of community cultural consciousness associated with the traditional agricultural village environment of the Vietnamese people, whether in the North, South, or anywhere else. A Vietnamese person, before becoming an adult or assuming a social position anywhere, first perceives the cultural traditions of the family, village, or neighborhood where they live. There are very close, vivid human relationships, and it is where the cultural foundation of their character is forged."

In addition, for generations, the Vietnamese have known how to compromise within the community, bridge differences, and build customs and agreements accepted by the entire community. The depth of thought, intelligence, and cultural essence of Vietnam partly lies in this aspect, in the "citadel" that helps our nation stand firm after thousands of years of domination, after numerous patriotic wars throughout history.

The questions about Vietnamese culture and the perspectives of Americans, Europeans, and East Asians during the process of research and teaching abroad have led Dr. Tho to have a more dialectical perspective, more openness, and to recognize the strengths and depth of Vietnamese culture in the overall picture, instead of struggling to find subjective answers from those within.

"Many things we have, the region and the world also have, such as patriotism, respect for teachers, the spirit of mutual help, and peace-loving spirit... Not to mention the process of cultural exchange and integration in history is extremely common. But the world still highly praises the intelligence and talent of Vietnam shown through the process of absorbing cultural quintessence from outside and adapting it to the national worldview. That is the real strength as we integrate with the world," shares Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Tho.

Source: Thanh Nien Newspaper

Original article: https://thanhnien.vn/nguoi-giup-the-gioi-hieu-ve-van-hoa-viet-1851543803.htm

"THIS JOURNEY BRINGS ME PLENTY OF WONDERFUL EXPERIENCES"

Despite many opportunities to work in an international environment, Dr. Le Thanh Long chose to return to his home country to work.

From a student to a young Associate Professor at VNUHCM-University of Technology

Associate Professor, Dr. Le Thanh Long (born in 1988, from Tinh Tho commune, Son Tinh district, Quang Ngai province), is currently a lecturer at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, VNUHCM-University of Technology. He was recently recognized as an Associate Professor at the age of 35, making him one of the youngest associate professors at the university.

"A long and memorable journey" - That's how Associate Professor Le Thanh Long describes his journey from being a student to becoming a lecturer at the very institution where he studied.

Professor Le Thanh Long (in black, in the middle) takes a commemorative photo with family and colleagues at the Ceremony of Honoring and Appointing Professors and Associate Professors in 2023, VNUHCM-University of Technology.

It is known that Professor Long was once a student majoring in Mechanical Engineering at VNUHCM-University of Technology (Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology). Precious experiences from his student days, under the guidance of dedicated and enthusiastic teachers, gradually ignited the flame of scientific research passion in the young lecturer.

"The first mark that nurtured my passion for scientific research was my undergraduate research project.

Facing challenges for the first time, self-exploring, researching, sometimes feeling discouraged because of the vast knowledge I hadn't yet acquired, not knowing how to solve problems... but thanks to the dedicated guidance and timely encouragement of my supervisor at that time, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dang Van Nghin, who helped me complete my undergraduate research project," Associate Professor Le Thanh Long confided to the reporters of the Vietnam Education Online Magazine.

From here, his interest in scientific research began to flourish in the young student. In 2011, after graduating with honors and winning a silver medal for his cohort, Long applied for a scholarship to pursue his postgraduate studies at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Central University (NCU), Taiwan.

After completing his Ph.D. in 2016, Long continued to spend some time doing postdoctoral research at NCU to gain more research experience.

In early 2017, the young Ph.D. made the decision to return to his homeland and chose the university that had been closely associated with him since his student days to work - continuing his academic path as a university lecturer.

Sharing his decision to return to his country, the young lecturer said that overcoming difficulties and challenges in research only fueled his passion for scientific research even more; with the hope that his research works would address urgent societal issues and have high practical applicability.

"I decided to become a university lecturer because the university environment will help me continue to pursue my passion for scientific research. Additionally, I can impart knowledge, inspire research passion in my students, and in the future, the younger generation will contribute to the country's development," Long said.

Enthusiastic, dedicated spirit in every role

Long's current main research directions focus on the application of fluid dynamics in the field of fluid mechanics and autonomous vehicles; Designing and manufacturing Mechanical devices, automation, robots with applications of AI, IoT technology.

"My research directions include both fundamental and applied research. I maintain fundamental research to be able to connect, exchange academic knowledge with international colleagues, and increase the applicability in practice. As a result, there have been publications in reputable international journals.

In addition, I am also very interested in applied research because it can be immediately applied to solve urgent social problems," Associate Professor Le Thanh Long further shared.

The young associate professor believes that both fundamental research and applied research play important roles. The difference is that fundamental research has a delay and requires time to be applied in practice.

"Fundamental research is an investment for the future, contributing to enhancing the scientific and technological position of a country. Meanwhile, applied research can apply research results immediately to serve the interests of people and society. Therefore, the majority of people in society will need more applied research," Associate Professor Le Thanh Long emphasized.

Regarding his own research, Long said that he is currently maintaining both research activities, with applied research activities accounting for a larger proportion. Associate Professor Le Thanh Long and his research team are currently focusing on developing Mechanical - Automation devices, robots with applications of artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), digital transformation... to help solve problems in various fields such as agriculture, industry, healthcare, smart cities, and practical production...

In reality, over time, the young Associate Professor from Quang Ngai and his colleagues have successfully manufactured and implemented many innovative initiatives, greatly assisting the community, such as the Multi-functional disinfection spray chamber, IoT Check-in system at VNUHCM-University of Technology, Negative pressure room, Smart water purifier...

Speaking about his most cherished product, Associate Professor Le Thanh Long said that it is the Negative pressure room. This is a product of the project "Research on designing and manufacturing isolation cushion modules, automatic surface disinfection applied in field hospitals," approved by the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Science and Technology in 2020.

According to Long, the product is part of the comprehensive solution of the research team used for isolating and treating Covid-19 patients. The young lecturer and his research team conducted this project during the period when the country was implementing social distancing due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Although social distancing affected the research process of the team, there were times when members couldn't travel, had to have online meetings... but after all, the members of the research team made efforts to research, collaborate with each other to complete the Negative pressure room product, which was accepted by the Acceptance Council in 2023.

The product has practical significance in contributing to pandemic prevention and control, protecting health, and raising community awareness," the young Associate Professor shared his pride in his research product and his colleagues.

In addition to his role as a lecturer and researcher, Associate Professor Le Thanh Long also participates in youth union activities as the Secretary of the Mechanical Engineering Youth Union, a member of the Executive Committee of the University Youth Union of University of Technology from 2017 - 2022, a Member of the Vietnam Youth Union Executive Committee of District 10 for the 2019-2024 term, Head of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Club at University of Technology...

The lecturer shared that youth union activities help him become more dynamic and proactive. Alongside students and lecturers in social activities, academic competitions, entrepreneurship-related activities, innovation help Long have the opportunity to exchange, collaborate, enhance critical thinking, and have many new ideas to serve scientific research.

"We accompany each other, make contributions to the university and society," Long confided with a spirit full of enthusiasm.

With his dedicated activities in many roles like that, Associate Professor Le Thanh Long expresses his hope to students, youth, and young officials, always demonstrating enthusiasm, passion, innovation, daring to think, dare to do, dare to take responsibility to make practical contributions to the country's development.

In his capacity as a young Associate Professor at VNUHCM-University of Technology, Long affirmed that he will continue to strive, make more contributions in the future, deserving the expectations of the university and society.

"I will continue to maintain and develop my research directions, expand strong research groups, enhance international cooperation to address urgent social issues, and enhance the reputation and position of Vietnam internationally," the young Associate Professor expressed.

Source: Education Newspaper

Original article: https://giaoduc.net.vn/pgs-ts-le-thanh-long-con-duong-dang-di-cho-toi-nhieu-trai-nghiem-tuyet-voi-post240471.gd

THE RESEARCH ASPIRATIONS OF TWO FEMALE SCIENTISTS

Among the 10 young scientists awarded the 2023 Golden Globe Award for Science and Technology (an award organized by the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union Central Committee and the Ministry of Science and Technology), two female scientists from Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City received this prestigious recognition. Both scientists have achieved outstanding research results in the fields of medical technology and new materials.

Passion for New Materials

With remarkable achievements in the field of new materials technology, Ms. Nguyen Ho Thuy Linh (born in 1990), Head of the Biochemical and Environmental Materials Research Group at the Institute of Nano and Molecular Structural Materials Research (INOMAR), Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, was honored to receive the 2023 Golden Globe Award. This award recognizes her outstanding accomplishments, including over 40 published papers in prestigious national and international scientific journals.

Ms. Nguyen Ho Thuy Linh receiving the 2023 Golden Globe Award

Having had a passion for chemistry since high school, at the age of 18, Thuy Linh chose to major in Chemistry (VNUHCM-University of Science) with the dream of becoming a Chemistry teacher. During her studies, with the enthusiastic guidance of her professors, Thuy Linh began to cultivate her passion for scientific research in her chosen field.

Ms. Nguyen Ho Thuy Linh shared: "In my fourth year, I worked on my graduation thesis on organic-metallic framework materials, but my major was organic chemistry. At the beginning of my research, everything was new to me, and I felt overwhelmed. However, it was precisely during the most challenging times, when everything was new, that I made efforts to acquire more knowledge and spent more time in the laboratory. Working in a modern laboratory with specialized research equipment and learning directly from world-leading scientists in the field of new materials such as Prof. Omar M. Yaghi, Prof. O’Keeffe... has motivated me and nurtured my aspirations and dreams for the research direction I have chosen."

After graduating from university in 2013, Thuy Linh decided to stay at the INOMAR Research Center as a researcher and pursued her master's degree a year later to focus on her scientific research career. With a research focus on organic-metallic framework materials, Thuy Linh concentrated on materials with high strength and commercial potential. One of her significant achievements is the research project titled "Zr and Hf-MOF metallic framework materials: effective heterogeneous catalysts for the synthesis of 2-arylbenzoxazole through alkylation ring-opening reaction." In this project, Thuy Linh applied microwave methods in the experimental process instead of solvent heat methods, reducing the synthesis time for each organic compound from 6-7 hours to 15-60 minutes, thus saving energy for the synthesis process. From this approach, the project synthesized 10 biologically active compounds applicable in various fields such as medicine and the environment. With these outstanding results, the paper on this project was approved for publication in the international journal "Journal of Catalysis," which is classified as Q1 with a high Impact Factor of 7.3.

In 2019, Ms. Nguyen Ho Thuy Linh continued her doctoral training program in the field of Nano and Molecular Structural Materials at the INOMAR, with expected graduation in 2024. Within just 10 years of dedication to scientific research, she has authored over 40 scientific papers, including 21 papers published in international Q1 journals, 17 papers in international Q2 journals, and 4 papers in domestic scientific journals...

Improving Brain Function Research

Dr. Ha Thi Thanh Huong, Head of the Department of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, International University (Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City), is one of the 10 young scientists awarded the 2023 Golden Globe Award for her significant contributions to the field of medical technology.

Dr. Ha Thi Thanh Huong conducting research on brain neurons

Growing up in a family with both parents working as teachers, Thanh Huong showed a keen interest in natural sciences from an early age. Consequently, she won numerous awards in Biology during her high school years, such as the first prize in the city-level Biology contest in grades 11 and 12, and the encouragement prize in the national-level Biology contest. During her university years, Thanh Huong was known as the "scholarship hunter" for her efforts to secure scholarships. In order to qualify for the Vietnam Education Fund scholarship and fulfill her dream of attending Stanford University (USA), she prepared meticulously with her academic achievements, English proficiency certificates, research experience, and, most importantly, a clear intention to return to Vietnam to serve her country. For Stanford University, the strongest point in Thanh Huong's application was her passion for Neuroscience. The head professor of the admissions committee at Stanford University, upon meeting her, expressed that he took the time to read and reread her essay and was deeply moved.

Dr. Thanh Huong shared: "During my undergraduate studies, I majored in Biotechnology, but for my Ph.D., I pursued Neuroscience. I was fortunate to receive comprehensive training in Molecular Biology from Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ho Huynh Thuy Duong, so I quickly grasped this technique when conducting my doctoral research. However, my research at Stanford University involved many other techniques and knowledge, such as culturing nerve cells, mouse dissection, measuring electrophysiological signals... which took me 2-3 years to fully understand and master. But perhaps the biggest challenge I faced was simultaneously working on my dissertation while also thinking about how to build a research team in Vietnam and what techniques to use for immediate deployment upon returning to the country..."
In 2018, immediately after completing her Ph.D. in Neuroscience, the scientist, born in 1989, returned to Vietnam and began teaching and researching at the International University. Currently, Dr. Thanh Huong has established the Brain Health Lab research group to conduct research on improving brain function and mental health. The group currently consists of 20 members, including undergraduate students, graduate students, and research assistants. The research direction of the group focuses deeply on stress and Alzheimer's disease. In the Alzheimer's disease research direction, the group has developed the Brain Analytics software for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease using artificial intelligence based on MRI brain images. The software can provide results within 10 minutes with an accuracy of about 96%, helping doctors save time in diagnosis. In addition to the probability of disease, the software also provides detailed information about brain regions for doctors to monitor conveniently.

Researching the Brain Analytics software has helped the research group led by Dr. Thanh Huong achieve many accomplishments in national and international competitions, such as the third prize in the 16th National Technical Innovation Contest (2022), the "Social Business Innovation Award 2021," and the second prize in the China-ASEAN Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition 2022. Previously, Dr. Thanh Huong was the first Vietnamese female scientist to receive the Early Career Award from the International Brain Research Organization in 2020 and was honored by L’Oréal - UNESCO as the "Outstanding Female Scientist of 2022".

Source: SGGP

Original article: https://www.sggp.org.vn/khat-vong-nghien-cuu-cua-hai-nha-khoa-hoc-nu-post726095.html?fbclid=IwAR0LNxR8trxWjEOAy7Q_PVGBY3yBaQAUMElG77weuM20K_tBZHtyBwRxJGE

"PERSISTING IN PASSION, THE SWEET FRUITS WILL COME"

Associate Professor Dr. Le Thi Kim Phung, among the top 100 leading scientists in Asia, shares that by putting your utmost effort and pursuing your passion relentlessly, sweet rewards will surely come.

PGS.TS Lê Thị Kim Phụng In her heart of hearts, Associate Professor Dr. Le Thi Kim Phung desires to develop towards applied research, creating value to serve the people. She acknowledges that our country still faces many challenges. In the Mekong Delta region, for instance, many people lack access to clean drinking water. Why not create clean water for the people?

Associate Professor Dr. Le Thi Kim Phung (center), among the top 100 leading scientists in Asia

THE JOURNEY TO THE GOLDEN GLOBE

The path to the 2021 Golden Globe Award of Dr. Nguyen Thanh Binh (born in 1986, lecturer at VNUHCM-University of Science has left a lasting impression on the science and technology community both domestically and internationally.

Dr. Nguyen Thanh Binh and colleagues during a research session. Photo: TG

Leaving to Come Back

After completing the Bachelor's program in Mathematics - Computer Science as the top graduate of VNUHCM-University of Science in 2008, Nguyen Thanh Binh continued his academic and scientific research journey abroad. He obtained a Master's degree in Applied Mathematics from the University of Orleans (France) in 2009. After successfully defending his doctoral thesis (with distinction) at the Ecole Polytechnique, Nguyen Thanh Binh returned to work at the Faculty of Mathematics - Computer Science, University of Science from 2013 until now.

In his 8 years of teaching and research, he has authored over 50 scientific papers, including 10 published in prestigious international journals such as SIAM Review (SCI Q1, IF = 14.686), SIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics (SCI Q1, IF = 1.718), Knowledge-based System (SCI Q1, IF = 8.038), Information Sciences (SCI Q1, IF = 6.795), NeuroComputing (SCI Q1, IF = 5.719)...

To win the prestigious Golden Globe Award presented by the Ho Chi Minh City Youth Union Central Committee and the Ministry of Science and Technology, Dr. Nguyen Thanh Binh submitted 4 international patents related to the development of artificial intelligence (AI) systems in the field of product quality assessment in factories and manufacturing workshops.

Among them, he holds a patent granted in the United States in July 2021 related to the construction of an automatic fabric quality evaluation system in the garment industry using spectroscopy devices.

This is the world's first patent related to this system and is being implemented in enterprises. The remaining three patents awaiting approval are related to the development of AI systems to predict potential errors in the garment manufacturing process. And the patent "Automatic Assessment of Production Quality in Garment Factories through Historical Appraisal Data and Risk Estimation in Order Production Processes" in industrial factories. These patents are being applied in practice.

Focusing on research on AI applications in agriculture and the environment, Dr. Nguyen Thanh Binh said: "I like to expand research with practical applications. Currently, I am focusing on AI because artificial intelligence is playing an increasingly important role and has many different applications in social life. The applied research I am conducting will save a lot of production costs, increase productivity for enterprises in the industrial sector, and gradually improve production results in agriculture in Vietnam."

Completing his PhD with distinction in France with many opportunities for work abroad, but still determined to return to work in Vietnam, because, according to him, Vietnam still has his mother, his homeland, friends, and colleagues.

"More importantly, I want to contribute and serve my homeland, to live and work as a scientist in my homeland, my country. Although I know there will be many difficulties because the conditions for scientific research cannot be compared to those abroad, I think it's a unique and interesting challenge, which gives me more motivation. Returning to the country for nearly 10 years, I feel that my choice is completely accurate and I am proud of what I have achieved," Dr. Binh shared.

Dr. Nguyen Thanh Binh (center) at the 2021 Golden Globe Awards ceremony

The Joy of an Inspirational Figure

According to Dr. Nguyen Thanh Binh, all algorithms and algorithms in all machine learning models of artificial intelligence applications contain optimal models, complex calculations, and estimations using mathematical tools to solve problems.

"The role of mathematics is extremely important in building tools and algorithms in machine learning. From there, we can apply these tools and algorithms to build expert systems, artificial intelligence systems for real-world problems. I feel lucky to be a mathematician and to study deeply about mathematics. In fact, mathematics is wonderful because it solves almost every problem in today's life," Dr. Binh shared.

As evidence of the success of optimizing mathematics in the research field, in 2021, Dr. Nguyen Thanh Binh had a practical research work using AI in applications, specifically: The work "Multi-source Machine Learning for AQI Estimation" proposes a machine learning approach to predict air pollution levels in big cities.

In this work, the research team created an IoT device to collect pollution data on various roads through districts and counties from Nha Be district, District 4, District 1, District 3, District 10, Binh Thanh district, District 2, Thu Duc district and developed a predictive model with high accuracy. The research results were accepted for presentation at the IEEE Big Data Conference. The research work was published in January 2021.

He and his research team also built practical application systems such as sentiment analysis systems with the work "A Novel Approach for Enhancing Vietnamese Sentiment Classification" presented at the SoMeT 2021 Conference, automatic Question-Answering systems (Question Answering platform) with the work "SPBERT: An Efficient Pre-training BERT on SPARQL Queries for Question Answering over Knowledge Graphs" presented at the ICONIP 2021 Conference...

Dr. Nguyen Thanh Binh believes that to shape scientific research products in the market, the support of enterprises and companies is needed to bridge the gap, helping scientific research results to be turned into specific applications. In addition, the attention and support of the state will be extremely valuable encouragement, creating a foundation to quickly bring research products and inventions into life.

Source: Education Times

Original article: https://giaoducthoidai.vn/ts-nguyen-thanh-binh-duong-den-qua-cau-vang-post569375.html