From a Research Funding Agency to the Organisation Driving Thailand’s Science, Research and Innovation System
Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI) is a key organisation within Thailand’s science, research and innovation (SRI) system. It plays a central role in ensuring that research and innovation are aligned with national policies, strategic priorities and development goals.
TSRI was established in 2019 as part of the reform of Thailand’s higher education, science, research and innovation system. It succeeded the Thailand Research Fund (TRF), whose primary role was to provide competitive research grants and which made significant contributions to strengthening the country’s research capacity over many years. The establishment of TSRI marked a transition from a project-based research funding agency to a central organisation responsible for national SRI planning, public investment management and system coordination, with the aim of creating a more integrated and impact-oriented SRI system.
Today, TSRI serves as the central coordinating agency that connects policy, strategic planning, budgeting, funding and performance evaluation across Thailand’s SRI system. It works to ensure that public investment in science, research and innovation delivers the greatest possible benefits for the economy, society, the environment and the quality of life of the Thai people.
TSRI works closely with organisations across the SRI ecosystem including government agencies, higher education institutions, Programme Management Units (PMUs), the private sector, civil society organisations and regional partners to promote the translation of research, technology and innovation into practical solutions that support Thailand’s sustainable development.