National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Thailand (BIOTEC)
The Center, originally known as NCGEB, was first setup under the Ministry for Science, Technology and Energy on 20 September 1983. After the establishment of the National Science and Technology Development Agency ( NSTDA ) on 30 December 1991, BIOTEC became one of the NSTDA centers, operating outside the normal framework of civil service and state enterprises. This enabled the Center to operate more effectively to support and transfer technology for the development of industry, agriculture, natural resources, environment and consequently the social and economic well-being of Thai people. The main objectives of BIOTEC are to induce dynamics in research, development and application of biotechnology in order to support technology development and adoption in both public and private institutions. This is achieved through establishing research programs, which include funding and program management, as well as establishing research laboratories in collaboration with universities and government agencies. BIOTEC is both a granting agency as well as having its own research laboratories. The Center also engages in human resources development, management and technical services, technology investment, public awareness, information services and international cooperation. A dynamic institution, BIOTEC is continually evolving to meet the challenges presented to the country by globalization, international trade and the development of new technologies. The Center is a catalyst for exchange between researchers and the private sector, both locally and internationally.