As a dedicated researcher with a robust background in the biological conversion of raw materials in Thailand, I understand the processes that transform agricultural products into commercially valuable commodities. I specialize in using oil palm, rice, cassava, and sugarcane – abundant resources in Thailand - to innovate and improve sustainable production methods. My expertise encompasses both the scientific and practical aspects of bioconversion processes. I am adept at leveraging the unique biochemical properties of these raw materials to explore and develop new products that meet market demands while adhering to environmental sustainability principles. Much of my research is devoted to optimizing fermentation techniques, enzymatic conversion, and biorefinery strategies to enhance Thailand's agricultural produce value chain.

Having worked closely with the local agricultural sector, including hands-on interactions with farmers and industrial workers, I bring a pragmatic understanding of the challenges and opportunities at the grassroots level. This experience enriches my research, allowing me to focus on practical solutions that are scientifically sound and economically viable. My approach is interdisciplinary, integrating insights from biochemistry, engineering, and economics to address the complex nature of bioconversion. I am also committed to disseminating and applying academic knowledge for commercial ends. My vision is to bridge the gap between research and industry, translating scientific advancements into tangible products and processes that can boost Thailand's bioeconomy. I actively engage with academic circles to stay abreast of the latest developments in my field, ensuring that my work remains at the forefront of innovation.

As I look to the future, I am focused on expanding the applications of biological conversion processes to create biofuels and bioplastics, pharmaceuticals, and other high-value biochemicals. By harnessing the potential of Thailand's raw materials, I aim to contribute to a sustainable, circular economy that benefits both the environment and the local communities.

Field of Specialization
Energy Biotechnology (methane, ethanol, hydrogen, and microbial fuel cells), Microbial Ecology, Thermophilic Bacteria and Achaea Diversity, Fermentation Technology, Molecular Biological Techniques (FISH, DGGE, Proteomics), Environmental Biotechnology, Anaerobic Digestion.

Awards and honors
2017     Taguchi Prize for Outstanding Research Achievements Award 2017
2016      NRCT Innovation Awards, National Research Council of Thailand
2011     TRF-CHE SCOPUS RESEARCHER AWAED 2011, Elsevier
2010     The Best Thesis Awards the National Research Council 2009 from National Research Council of Thailand
2007      Outstanding Ph.D. Thesis in Biotechnology 2007 (Taguchi’s Prize) from Thai Society of Biotechnology

Dr. Sompong O-Thong's research is highly regarded in the field of bioenergy, particularly in the biological conversion of organic wastes to valuable products through anaerobic digestion processes. One of his notable publications is on the "Hydrochar-Facilitated Anaerobic Digestion: Evidence for Direct Interspecies Electron Transfer Mediated through Surface Oxygen-Containing Functional Groups." This study, published in Environmental Science & Technology in 2020, explores the acceleration of the anaerobic digestion (AD) process, which is crucial for the energy-efficient recycling of organic wastes. The research found that sewage sludge-derived hydrochar (SH) enhanced the methane production rate from glucose by 37% and facilitated hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis possibly through direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET). The study highlighted that not just the electrical conductivity or the total redox property of hydrochars and activated carbon, but the abundances of surface oxygen-containing functional groups correlated to the methane production rates, indicating a nuanced interaction in the AD process​​.

Additionally, Dr. O-Thong has contributed chapters in the field of bioenergy in open-access platforms, which delve into microbial population optimization for dark hydrogen fermentation and biohythane production from organic wastes. In one of his chapters, "Microbial Population Optimization for Control and Improvement of Dark Hydrogen Fermentation," he discusses optimizing microbial community structure and properties to enhance hydrogen production and reduce pollution. This involves strategies like biostimulation, bioaugmentation, and online process control to maintain a productive microbial community​​. Another chapter, "Biohythane Production from Organic Wastes by Two-Stage Anaerobic Fermentation Technology," co-authored with Chonticha Mamimin and Poonsuk Prasertsan, outlines the process of combining biohydrogen and biomethane production to yield biohythane gas, which could be a more environmentally friendly and efficient energy source compared to traditional biogas​​.

Dr. O-Thong's work offers valuable insights into improving anaerobic digestion processes for better bioenergy production, emphasizing the importance of understanding microbial interactions and optimizing process conditions. His research contributes significantly to the field, offering pathways towards more sustainable and efficient bioenergy solutions, aligning well with academic and practical applications in bioenergy and waste management.

Personal Information
Name                  Dr.Sompong O-Thong
Title                      Associate Professor
Birth date             2 October 1978
ID number           3801300957791
Address               Mahidol University Nakhon Sawan
402/1 Moo 5, Khao Thong Subdistrict, Phayuha Khiri District, Nakhon Sawan Province 60130
Phone number     0949149923 (mobile phone)
Fax.                      +6688-2786883
E-mail                  [email protected]; [email protected]
H-index                         35 (Scopus) update 08 March 2023.
Citation                         3951 (Scopus) update 08 March 2023.

Academic Background
2001      B.Sc. (Biology) Thaksin University, Thailand, (2^nd Hons.)
2003      M. Sc. (Biotechnology) Prince of Songkla University, Thailand
2007      Ph.D. (Biotechnology) Prince of Songkla University, Thailand

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sompong O-Thong, a distinguished figure in the realm of agricultural biotechnology, was born on October 2, 1978. With a remarkable H-index of 38 and over 4459 citations to his credit, Dr. O-Thong has significantly contributed to the bioconversion of raw materials in Thailand. Educated at Thaksin University and Prince of Songkla University in Thailand, where he received his B.Sc. in Biology and M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Biotechnology, Dr. O-Thong embarked on a career dedicated to exploring the biochemical processes of converting natural resources like oil palm, rice, cassava, and sugarcane into valuable bioproducts. His work initially focused on the foundational aspects of bioconversion, involving extensive research and experimentation.

Transitioning into a more applied research role, Dr. O-Thong worked closely with agricultural and industrial partners to innovate and refine bioconversion techniques. This career phase was marked by a deep engagement with fieldwork, allowing him to amalgamate practical knowledge with academic research. His efforts were instrumental in optimizing biofuel production processes and expanding bioproduct applications to include bioplastics and other novel materials. A respected academic, Dr. O-Thong has maintained a robust presence in scholarly circles, contributing to peer-reviewed journals and presenting at international conferences. His dedication to bridging the gap between academic research and industrial application is evident in his commitment to mentoring emerging scientists and focusing on sustainable development.

His expertise spans energy biotechnology, microbial ecology, fermentation technology, and environmental biotechnology. Dr. O-Thong's current research ventures include innovative approaches in anaerobic digestion, bioenergy production, and medium-chain fatty acid production from palm oil mill effluent. Dr. O-Thong's accomplishments have been recognized through numerous awards and honors, including the Best Ph.D. Dissertation Advisor in 2018 and Best Researcher Awards in 2018 from Thaksin University. He holds a patent in biohydrogen production and has authored an impressive array of publications, including 126 journal articles and 6 book chapters.

At Mahidol University Nakhon Sawan, Dr. O-Thong continues to contribute to the bioeconomy of Thailand, focusing on the sustainable use of local resources. His work not only advances scientific understanding but also supports the development of eco-friendly and commercially viable technologies, significantly impacting the academic and industrial sectors.

Pretty patent no.13477. Systems for biohydrogen production from organic waste and wastewater by integrated dark fermentation and microbial electrolysis under thermophilic conditions.

Pretty patent no.1803002295. The paralleled liquid and solid anaerobic digestion systems for biogas and compost production and protocol   

Pretty patent no.2003001579. Medium formulation for cellulase enzyme producing bacteria with rambutan peel extract.