Projects in Thailand
Investigators:
University of Michigan Mentor:
Candidates at the Masters and PhD levels are welcome to apply for a placement at this site.
Urban Safety Innovation Research Group, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
The Urban Safety Innovation Research Group (USIR) brings together multidisciplinary
researchers to address urbanization-related challenges. By 2050, nearly 70% of the
global
population will live in cities, requiring significant preparation. Chiang Rai, located
at the border
of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos, is a diverse city expected to grow by 20% by 2030,
raising
concerns about urban expansion.
Our research focuses on three key areas: infrastructure development, health risk screening,
and
urban management. In infrastructure, we work on universal design, transportation safety
guidelines, healthy office environments, workplace assessments, and indoor air quality.
For
health risk screening, we develop tools for insecticide exposure, non-communicable
diseases
(NCDs), and chemical exposure from industries. Urban management focuses on understanding
human perception of accidents and identifying government strategies for better city
planning.
Each year, we select research topics to address these urban challenges, with our team
of
experienced researchers sharing their expertise with interns and fellows.
For summer 2025, there are up to two placements available at this site. For each placement listed below, trainees may select from several projects listed with the investigator. In your application, please specify which project(s) you are most interested in.
Placement 1: Projects with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kowit Nambunmee
Project 1: Insecticide Exposure Screening Innovation for Rural Farmers:
Farmers in Thailand face a significant health risk due to exposure to insecticides
during their
agricultural activities. Traditional screening methods are often inaccessible to rural
communities,
limiting early detection and management of exposure. This project aims to address
this challenge
by developing a novel biotechnology-based innovation for rapid and affordable insecticide
screening in agricultural products. The innovation will be designed to reduce the
time, cost, and
transportation barriers associated with current screening methods. By leveraging advanced
biotechnology techniques, we aim to create a user-friendly and scalable solution that
can be easily
deployed in rural areas.
The project will involve:
- Prototype development: Designing and constructing a functional prototype of the
screening device. - Laboratory testing and validation: Conducting rigorous testing to ensure the accuracy.
- Field trials: Evaluating the performance of the device in real-world agricultural settings.
Trainees will play a crucial role in the project by:
- Assisting with laboratory experiments: Contributing to the design and execution of
experiments to test the effectiveness of the screening technology. - Analyzing data: Analyzing experimental data to evaluate the performance of the device.
- Preparing research reports: Helping to prepare research reports for publication in
academic journals.
This placement will provide valuable hands-on experience in biotechnology research
and
development, as well as opportunities to contribute to scientific publications.
Suggested literature for the project:
- Forté, C. A., Colacino, J., Polemi, K., Guytingco, A., Peraino, N. J., Jindaphong,
S., Kaviya, T.,
Westrick, J., Neitzel, R., & Nambunmee, K. (2021). Pesticide exposure and adverse health
effects associated with farmwork in Northern Thailand. Journal of Occupational Health,
63(1), e12222. https://doi.org/10.1002/1348-9585.12222 - Nambunmee, K., Kawiya, T., Neitzel, R. L., & Seeprasert, P. (2021). Pesticide Spraying and Reduced Cholinesterase Activity among Hill Tribe Farmers in Thailand. Journal of Health & Pollution, 11(31), 1–12. https://doi.org/10.5696/2156-9614-11.31.210908
- Niroj Chartpoj, Nuanpan Kitirath, Siwat Sibua, Kowit Nambunmee, Tharinya Kaviya, Supakit Khacha-ananda. Effectiveness Evaluation of Insecticide Exposure Screening Among Farmers in Pa Tueng Subdistrict, Mae Chan District, Chiang Rai Province, Thailand (S3E026). Proceeding of The 1st International Conference on Science and Technology 2023 (21-22 February 2023) Page 1095-1101.
Project 2: The Agricultural and Health Consequences of Cadmium Contamination in Mae Sot, Thailand
This project involves finalizing a manuscript that has already been drafted. The manuscript
is a
review of cadmium contamination in the environment of Mae Sot District, Tak Province,
Thailand. Mae Sot is well-known for rice production, but cadmium contamination has
limited
farmers' ability to grow rice. Additionally, this contamination has caused various
health issues.
Our previous studies have identified significant effects on bone and kidney health
in the local
population. The trainee's role will be to assist in wrapping up the manuscript, which
will
summarize the current situation in Mae Sot and share our findings and experiences.
As part of
this project, the trainee will gain valuable experience in the process of submitting
a
manuscript to an academic journal.
Trainees will play a crucial role in the project by:
- Assisting in finalizing the manuscript draft, ensuring clarity and completeness.
- Summarizing key findings related to cadmium contamination in Mae Sot District, including
its environmental impact and health outcomes. - Helping to organize and present research data, particularly on the effects of cadmium
on bone
and kidney health. - Reviewing and editing sections of the manuscript for grammar, style, and structure.
- Collaborating with the research team to integrate feedback into the final draft.
- Preparing the manuscript for submission to an academic journal by following journal
guidelines. - Gaining hands-on experience in the academic publishing process, from manuscript
refinement to submission
Suggested literature for the project:
- Nambunmee K, Honda R, Nishijo M, Swaddiwudhipong W, Nakagawa H, Ruangyuttikarn W.
Bone resorption acceleration and calcium reabsorption impairment in a Thai population with
high cadmium exposure. Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods. 2010:7-13. - Limpatanachote P, Swaddiwudhipong W, Nishijo M, Honda R, Mahasakpan P, Nambunmee K,
Ruangyuttikarn W. Cadmium-Exposed Population in Mae Sot District, Tak Province: 4 Bone
Mineral Density in Persons with High Cadmium Exposure. J Med Assoc Thai. 2010; 93(12):
1451-1457. - Ruangyuttikarn W, Panyamoon A, Nambunmee K, Honda R, Swaddiwudhipong W and Nishijo
M. Use of the kidney injury molecule-1 as a biomarker for early detection of renal tubular
dysfunction in a population chronically exposed to cadmium in the environment.
SpringerPlus 2013, 2:533 - Nishijo M, Suwazono Y, Ruangyuttikarn W, Nambunmee K, Swaddiwudhipong W, Nogawa K,
et al. Risk assessment for Thai population: benchmark dose of urinary and blood cadmium levels for renal effects by hybrid approach of inhabitants living in polluted and non-polluted areas in Thailand. BMC Public Health. 2014; 14(1): 702. - Nambunmee K, Swaddiwudhipong W, Ruangyuttikarn W. Fractional excretion of calcium, a sensitive marker for calcium wasting in cadmium-exposed women. Toxicology and Environmental Health Sciences. 2016:8(5):302-308.
- Nishijo M, Nambunmee K, Suvagandha D, Swaddiwudhipong W, Ruangyuttikarn W, Nishino Y. Gender-Specific Impact of Cadmium Exposure on Bone Metabolism in Older People Living in a Cadmium-Polluted Area in Thailand. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2017;14:401
- Rocco, S, Koneva, L, Middleton, L, Thong, T, Solanki, S, Karram, S, Nambunmee, K, Harris, C, Rozek, L, Sartor, M, Shah, Y, Colacino, J. Cadmium exposure inhibits branching morphogenesis and causes alterations consistent with HIF-1α inhibition in human primary breast organoids. Toxicological Sciences. 2018 May 7. doi: 10.1093/toxsci/kfy112.
Project 3: Addressing Cervical Cancer Access Barriers Among Hill Tribe Populations in Thailand
Cervical cancer is a significant public health issue in Thailand, ranking as the second
most frequent
cancer causing deaths among women. This project aims to investigate the specific challenges
faced
by hill tribe populations in accessing cervical cancer screening and treatment. Hill
tribe
communities have unique cultural, social, and geographic characteristics that necessitate
tailored
healthcare interventions. By understanding the barriers to cervical cancer care within
these
communities, we can develop targeted strategies to improve outcomes and reduce the
burden of
disease.
Objectives
- Identify key barriers: Determine the primary factors that prevent hill tribe women
from
accessing cervical cancer screening and treatment. - Assess healthcare service availability: Evaluate the availability and accessibility
of
cervical cancer screening and treatment services in hill tribe regions. - Develop targeted interventions: Propose evidence-based interventions to address
identified barriers and improve healthcare access.
Methodology
- Data collection: Utilize qualitative and quantitative research methods, including
surveys,
interviews, and focus groups, to gather data from hill tribe women and healthcare
providers. - Data analysis: Employ appropriate statistical techniques to analyze quantitative data
and
thematic analysis for qualitative data. - Manuscript drafting: Prepare a research manuscript for publication in an academic
journal, outlining the findings, implications, and recommendations.
Trainees will play a crucial role in the project by:
- Assisting with data analysis: Learning and applying data analysis techniques to analyze
quantitative and qualitative data.Contributing to manuscript drafting: Participating in the writing process, including
literature review, results interpretation, and discussion. - Gaining hands-on experience: Experiencing the unique challenges and opportunities
of
working in hill tribe communities. - Participating in workshops: Attending data analysis workshops to enhance their skills
and knowledge.
Suggested literature for the project:
- Sophaphan Intahphuak, Kowit Nambunmee, Patita Kuipiaphum. Factors Influence on Pap
Test
Screening among Lahu Hill Tribe Women in Remote Area Thailand. Asian Pacific J Cancer
Prev. 2021;22(7):2243-2249. doi:10.31557/APJCP.2021.22.7.2243
Project 4: Developing Guidelines for Electric Car Fire Extinguishing in Thailand
The rapid increase in the number of electric vehicles on Thai roads has created a
pressing need for
guidelines on fire prevention and extinguishment for police and government staff.
This project
aims to develop comprehensive guidelines that address the unique challenges posed
by electric car
fires, ensuring the safety of both responders and the public.
Methodology
- Literature review: Conduct a thorough review of existing research on electric vehicle
fires, firefighting techniques, and safety standards. - Case study analysis: Analyze case studies of electric vehicle fires in Thailand and
other
countries to identify common patterns and challenges. - Expert consultation: Consult with experts in electric vehicle technology, firefighting,
and safety to gather insights and recommendations. - Field testing: Conduct field tests to evaluate the effectiveness of different firefighting
techniques and equipment on electric vehicles. - Drafting of guidelines: Develop comprehensive guidelines that incorporate the findings
of the research and consultations.
Trainees will play a crucial role in this project by:
- Conducting literature reviews: Searching for relevant research articles and studies
on
electric vehicle fires. - Analyzing case studies: Examining case studies to identify trends and patterns.
- Assisting with field tests: Participating in field experiments to evaluate firefighting
techniques. - Contributing to guideline development: Helping to draft and refine the guidelines
based on research findings.
Expected Outcomes
- Comprehensive guidelines: The development of clear and actionable guidelines for
police and government staff on electric vehicle fire prevention and extinguishment. - Enhanced safety: Improved safety for responders and the public by addressing the
unique challenges posed by electric car fires. - Alignment with international standards: Guidelines that align with global best
practices for electric vehicle safety. - By participating in this project, interns will gain valuable experience in the field
of public safety
and contribute to the development of essential guidelines for a rapidly growing sector of the
transportation industry.
Placement 2: Projects with Dr. Siriwan Kantisin
Project 1: Microwave-assisted rice bran oil-based extraction for maximizing the active constituents and would healing properties
Diabetes mellitus is associated with poor wound healing due to factors like impaired
blood flow, chronic inflammation, and infection risks. Thailand is rich in medicinal
plants with
potential healing properties, particularly for skin regeneration and anti-inflammatory
benefits.
This study aims to explore specific Thai herbs that may enhance the healing process
of diabetic
wounds and validate their efficacy through bioassay testing.
Trainees will play a crucial role in this project by:
- Conducting bioassay testing (wound healing assay, anti-oxidant activity, total phenolic and total flavonoid content assay)
- Preparing the ointment preparation of bioactive in form of nanoencapsulation and stability
testing
Trainees should be faimliar with:
- Anti-oxidant activity, total phenolic and total flavonoid content assay by spectrometry
- Formulation of ointment preparation
- Stability testing of ointment preparation
Suggested literature for the project:
- Sajadimajd, Soraya, et al. "Herbal nano-ointment containing encapsulated polysaccharide
in
repairing of superficial ulcers." Nanomedicine Journal 11.1 (2024).
Project 2: Urine Metabolomic Profiling in Farmers Exposed to Glyphosate
Glyphosate is one of the most widely used herbicides globally, especially in Thailand.
Metabolomics, the comprehensive analysis of small molecules or metabolites in an organism,
offers a powerful lens to explore the physiological changes resulting from glyphosate
exposure.
This approach can reveal alterations in biochemical pathways, offering insights into
the
herbicide's mechanisms of action and its potential toxicological effects. The aim
of this project is
predict model of metabolic pathway changes and the degradation of metabolites that
will occur
in farmers exposed to glyphosate.
Trainees will play a crucial role in the project by:
- Collecting sample from farmers and going into the field to share activities with them
(Chaing Rai
province) - Analyzing metabolomic profiling in urine (Chiang Mai province)
- Data analysis
- Drafting a report
Trainees should be faimilar with:
- Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and mass spectrometry (MS)
- Statistical analysis
Suggested for literature for the project:
- Labine, L. M., & Simpson, M. J. (2020). The use of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)
and mass
spectrometry (MS)–based metabolomics in environmental exposure assessment. Current
Opinion in Environmental Science & Health, 15, 7-15.
Additional information about this site:
Mae Fah Luang University is a public university located in Chiang Rai Province in northern Thailand. Chiang Rai, Thailand’s northernmost province, is part of the Golden Triangle region bordering Laos and Myanmar (Burma). It’s distinguished by its remote hill tribes who live in mountainous terrain accessible by trekking. Chiang Rai City, on the Mae Kok Rive, has a well known night market and the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), a modern Buddhist shrine with quirky modern sculptures and murals.
Trainees are affiliated with Mae Fah Luang University, and receive support from the MFU Global Relations Division with their non-immigrant education visa application and access to campus. Trainees stay at an apartment complex that is affiliated with Mae Fah Luang University, Regent Mansion.