The Nature-Inspired processes and Algal Biotechnology (NIAB) Research Group has been a center of excellence for biochemical engineering and algae technology research, teaching, and practices since its founding in 2022 by Dr. Pichaya In-na and her colleagues. Located at the Department of Chemical Technology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University — the first and oldest department teaching Chemical Engineering in Thailand — we are dedicated to advancing research in biochemical engineering and algae technology. Our multidisciplinary team focuses on developing sustainable solutions inspired by natural processes.
Pioneering research in sustainable biochemical engineering, algal biotechnology and bio-process simulations to address global challenges. Our multidisciplinary team develops innovative nature-inspired solutions for carbon capture, and environmental sustainability through cutting-edge research and collaboration.
Our research translates into real-world impact through Algae Deep Tech, delivering nature-inspired urban sustainable solutions. The MICROCAP system offers highly efficient carbon dioxide capture, providing fresher air with easy installation, lower maintenance than indoor plants, and affordable sustainability for buildings across Thailand.
September 15, 2025
NIAB Laboratory representatives participated in the Kuala Lumpur International Summit on Sustainable Future (KLSF 2025), a prestigious international conference hosted by Universiti Kuala Lumpur.
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September 9, 2025
NIAB Lab participates in KSL 2025, the premier life sciences symposium in Kuala Lumpur, showcasing cutting-edge algae biotechnology research.
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March 20, 2025
Our lab member Mr. Kanthaphan Punnaanan received the Best Oral Presentation Award at TIChE2025 for his presentation on Techno-Economic Analysis of Ulva spp.
Read More →On July 14, 1959, the Faculty of Science founded the Department of Chemical Technology, which grew out of the Department of Chemistry. Foreseeing the potential and demand for Thai chemical companies, Prof. Dr. Tab Nilanithi, who was then the Dean and also Head of the department, established a course in industrial chemistry, which grew to become the Chemical Technology Department. He was considered as the department’s creator.
Over the last half-century, academic progress in the department has been built on chemical engineering principles, with the introduction of vital technologies for the development of Thai economy and industry within its curriculum. As a result, the Department of Chemical Technology has served as a hub for the advancement of material science and food technology. Both fields advanced to become new departments in 1974 and 1984, respectively.
The department now offers two study programs under the chemical engineering curriculum. The first is typical chemical engineering, while the second is fuel technology. The department also provides graduate studies for master’s and doctorate degrees.