A Charles Sturt University PhD graduate has emerged as one of the world’s most influential academics and innovators in his field. Professor Pornsak Sriamornsak, who studied at Charles Sturt in Wagga Wagga, has been awarded a Charles Sturt Alumni Award for excellence in research and his significant contributions to the pharmaceutical industry.

Hailing from a province in Thailand, Professor Sriamornsak credits Charles Sturt University with shaping his academic trajectory, which has led him to become one of the world’s leading experts in pharmacy innovation and education.

Professor Sriamornsak graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy from Charles Sturt in Wagga Wagga in 2002. Since completing his PhD, he has earned international recognition as a pioneering academic and innovator in his field. He also holds a Master and Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from Mahidol University in Thailand.

Among his many achievements, Professor Sriamornsak developed a drug delivery system designed to address the long-standing challenges in administering medicine, particularly for the elderly and children. This breakthrough led to major discoveries in targeted drug delivery, pharmaceutical nanotechnology and 3D printing.

His work with biopolymers, such as pectin and alginate, is advancing green bioeconomy and enabling a new era of industrially sustainable practices.

His research has resulted in more than 250 peer-reviewed publications and nine patents, significantly advancing pharmaceutical knowledge and practices worldwide.

“The most exciting part of my work is seeing how our discoveries translate into real-world applications, pushing the boundaries of pharmaceutical research,” he said.

“It's incredibly rewarding to witness how our innovations and sustainable practices improve healthcare outcomes, fuelling my passion for advancing pharmaceutical sciences.”

Professor Sriamornsak was awarded the Charles Sturt Alumni Award for Research Excellence, which recognises outstanding leaders in their industry who are making a significant and positive impact on their communities, professions and the world.

The 2024 Charles Sturt Alumni Awards recognise the personal and professional achievements of the University’s graduates, who continue to embody the University ethos of Yindyamarra Winhanganha, a Wiradjuri phrase that means the wisdom of respectfully knowing how to live well in a world worth living in.

“Receiving the Alumni Award for Research Excellence inspires me to keep pushing for excellence and making a meaningful impact, all while upholding the values and spirit of Charles Sturt University,” he said.

Born in Bangkok and raised in Samut Sakhon, a province 30 kilometres from the city, Professor Sriamornsak’s fascination with how medicines could heal, and improve lives began at a young age. His curiosity, combined with a solid foundation in science, led him to pursue a career in pharmaceutical sciences and education.

“I chose a career in pharmaceutical education, specialising in industrial pharmacy, because I’m passionate about enhancing the way medicines are developed and delivered to patients,” he explained.

“I also have a deep love for teaching, as it gives me the opportunity to help shape the next generation of pharmacists and healthcare professionals. My work is centred around making sure medicines are both effective and accessible to those who need them.”

Currently, Professor Sriamornsak serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy at Silpakorn University in Thailand and is the President of Pharmacy Education Consortium of Thailand.

His passion for teaching and sharing knowledge has grown over the years. He finds fulfilment in educating future pharmacists and contributing to healthcare through both teaching and research.

Reflecting on his time at Charles Sturt, Professor Sriamornsak credits his immersion in stimulating research topics and mentorship from inspiring faculty as key factors that underpinned his academic trajectory.

He is proud to have been recognised for his contribution to pharmaceutical research, innovation, education and his unwavering commitment to advancing health outcomes.