Royal Decree Appoints New President of Chiang Mai University
Professor Dr. Phongrak Sribundit Mongkol has been reappointed as rector of Chiang Mai University for a second term starting July 2026, following the university's achievements in sustainability rankings and economic impact during his first t
The Thai King has appointed Professor Dr. Phongrak Sribundit Mongkol to a second term as rector of Chiang Mai University, effective July 25, 2026, following approval by the university council on April 25, 2026. The appointment was formally announced in the Royal Gazette on July 14, 2026.
Professor Phongrak is an accomplished physician and administrator with a medical degree from Chiang Mai University, advanced credentials in forensic science from Mahidol University, and a doctorate in pharmacology and toxicology from Ohio State University. His previous roles include chairman of the Council of Thai University Presidents (2023–2024), vice rector of Chiang Mai University (2018–2022), and director of the university's medical excellence center (2010–2012).
During his first term, Chiang Mai University has made substantial progress toward its vision of becoming a leading institution responsible to society for sustainable development through innovation. The university achieved a Thailand Quality Class Plus Award for Innovation in 2023 from the National Productivity Institute and ranked 49th globally in the 2026 Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Rating out of 1,603 institutions worldwide. In gender equality and sustainable development goals, the university achieved top-20 global recognition. Economically and socially, the university has generated impact valued at approximately 56 billion baht, nearly reaching its 60 billion baht target by 2027, demonstrating its role in advancing national development through knowledge, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration.
