On 18 June, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) organised the evaluation council for a Category C university-level scientific project entitled “Estimating Atmospheric Deposition of Heavy Metals in Southern Vietnamese Megacity”. The project was led by Dr Nguyễn Lý Sỹ Phú as principal investigator, alongside team members Assoc. Prof. Tô Thị Hiền, MSc Trần Ánh Ngân, MSc Võ Thị Tâm Minh, and BSc Trần Hoàng Minh.

Urban air pollution represents a critical area of concern within environmental research. In Ho Chi Minh City, previous studies have predominantly focused on assessing the concentration of airborne pollutants, particularly suspended particulate matter, whilst the deposition of atmospheric contaminants onto land surfaces and water bodies remains insufficiently documented. To address this research gap, the project was initiated to evaluate the extent of atmospheric heavy metal deposition, thereby providing a more robust scientific foundation for assessing the ecological impacts of air pollution on urban ecosystems.

Throughout the investigation, the research team developed a tailored methodology and engineered a rainwater sampling system suitable for the climatic conditions of Ho Chi Minh City. Collected samples underwent analysis via Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) to determine the concentration of various metallic elements, including Zn, Mn, Cu, Cr, Ni, Pb, V, and As.

The findings indicate that heavy metal concentrations in rainwater within the surveyed area mirror characteristics typically observed in urban environments heavily influenced by vehicular traffic, industrial manufacturing, and dust-generating sources. Among these elements, Zn emerged as the predominant component across the analysed samples. In addition to pollutant concentrations, the study examined the influence of heavy rainfall in Ho Chi Minh City on the transport and total deposition load of atmospheric metals into the environment.

By integrating analytical models such as the Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT) model and Principal Component Analysis (PCA), the researchers identified potential source groups contributing to the presence of heavy metals in rainwater. These sources encompass transport activities, industrial production, construction operations, and natural dust sources.

The outcomes of this research contribute to a broader approach in urban environmental assessment, extending beyond baseline air quality monitoring at specific times to evaluate the transfer of pollutants from the atmosphere into other environmental compartments such as soil and water. The gathered data offer a valuable reference framework for subsequent studies regarding the distribution, accumulation, and ecological consequences of heavy metals within urban environments.

In terms of academic publications, the project yielded one paper in the Q1-ranked international journal Environmental Science: Atmospheres published by the Royal Society of Chemistry, one paper in a Q2 international journal, and one research article in the Science and Technology Development Journal – Natural Sciences. Furthermore, the project supported capacity building by contributing to the academic completion of one master’s student and three undergraduate students.

The evaluation council concluded that the project successfully fulfilled the research objectives set out in the proposal, employing rigorous methodologies and delivering scientifically significant results for environmental monitoring and quality assessment; the council subsequently voted unanimously to approve the official acceptance of the project.

On 18 June, the VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) convened an evaluation committee for a VNUHCM-level science and technology project entitled “Research on the anomalous Hall effect of ferromagnetic materials using first-principles simulation,” chaired by Dr Trịnh Thị Lý, the project examines the control mechanisms of the anomalous Hall effect within ferromagnetic materials, aiming to provide a scientific foundation for designing materials applicable to the field of spintronics.

The anomalous Hall effect represents a crucial phenomenon in magnetic materials, holding significant potential for application in next-generation spintronic devices. A primary area of current academic interest involves identifying mechanisms capable of modulating and enhancing anomalous Hall conductivity (AHC).

Within the framework of this research, the investigators focused on investigating hexagonal close-packed cobalt (hcp-Co) to evaluate how elastic strain influences the electronic characteristics and transport properties of the material. By combining the first-principles simulation method (ab initio) with a tight-binding computational model, the research team analysed the quantum physical mechanisms associated with variations in anomalous Hall conductivity under mechanical strain.

The findings demonstrate that the anomalous Hall conductivity of hcp-Co can be adjusted via elastic strain within a range from -2% to +2%. The AHC value reaches a maximum at a compressive strain of -0.5%, exhibiting a variation of up to 24% compared to the pristine state. Computational results indicate that this modification relates to the shift of energy band anti-crossing points closer to the Fermi level, which alters the Berry curvature distribution and directly affects the anomalous Hall conductivity of the material.

Alongside these scientific outcomes, the project successfully delivered the academic products and training objectives originally set forth. The research group developed an anomalous Hall conductivity (AHC) calculation module integrated into the bphase programme, published a scientific paper entitled “Tuning the Anomalous Hall Conductivity of hcp-Cobalt by Constant-Volume Biaxial Strain” in a journal within the IEEJ Transactions system, and contributed to postgraduate education by supervising one Master’s student to completion.

The outcomes of this research contribute to the scientific framework regarding the ability to control the anomalous Hall effect via mechanical strain in ferromagnetic materials. Furthermore, the work establishes an analytical approach for investigating and optimising magnetic materials to serve spintronics research.

The evaluation committee agreed that the project fulfilled all registered research contents and deliverables, whilst acknowledging the achievements in elucidating the physical mechanisms of the anomalous Hall effect in ferromagnetic materials. The committee members unanimously approved the evaluation results of the project.

 

On 17 June, the Evaluation Committee for the VNUHCM-level research project entitled ‘Research and fabrication of gold metallic nanostructured plasmonic substrates for surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy applications,’ chaired by MSc Nguyễn Duy Khánh, alongside Associate Professor Lê Vũ Tuấn Hùng and Dr Lê Văn Ngọc.

The project focused on the research and fabrication of SERS (Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering – surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy) sensor substrates based on gold nanostructures. These substrates are designed for the detection of Auramine O, a hazardous organic dye subject to strict regulation in food safety.

During the investigation, the research group fabricated three distinct gold nanostructure morphologies: gold nanospheres (GNS), gold nanorods (GNR), and gold nanourchins (GNU). The team subsequently evaluated how material morphology influences the efficiency of Raman signal enhancement.

A key highlight of the research is the systematic assessment of the relationship between gold nanostructure morphology and SERS performance under identical measurement conditions. The findings demonstrate that the SERS signal increases in the order of GNS3 < GNR120 < GNU25. Specifically, the gold nanourchin structure (GNU25) achieved the highest enhancement efficiency due to the high density of sharp spikes on the surface, which facilitates the formation of numerous electromagnetic ‘hot spots’—localised sites capable of strongly amplifying the Raman signal.

The experimental results indicate that the GNU25-structured SERS substrate achieved the lowest limit of detection for Auramine O at 0.01 mg/L. The fabricated SERS substrates also demonstrated excellent uniformity, reproducibility, and stability after six months of storage. These outcomes help guide the development of high-performance plasmonic nanomaterials for rapid, sensitive, and non-destructive Raman sensing systems, benefiting fields such as food safety, environmental monitoring, and analytical chemistry.

Within the framework of this project, the research group published one international paper in a journal ranked Q2 by SCImago, whilst contributing to the training of one doctoral candidate and two undergraduate students.

The Evaluation Committee commended the project for appropriate research content, feasible methodologies, reliable results, and practical application value. Having fulfilled all the established objectives, the project was unanimously approved and highly commended by the Committee.

 

Doctoral researcher Trần Thị Anh Thoa presenting her doctoral thesis in Plant Physiology before the institutional Doctoral Thesis Assessment Committee at the VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS).

On 17 June 2026, at the VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS), doctoral researcher Trần Thị Anh Thoa (2019 cohort) successfully defended her doctoral thesis in Plant Physiology. The thesis, entitled “Contribution to understanding and controlling the development of water hyacinth Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms”, was supervised by Associate Professor Dr Bùi Trang Việt and Dr Đỗ Thường Kiệt.

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is an aquatic plant species characterised by rapid growth and the capacity to form dense vegetative mats on water surfaces through asexual reproduction, particularly via stolon development. The proliferation of water hyacinth in freshwater bodies can adversely affect aquatic ecosystems, waterway navigation, and water resource exploitation and utilisation. However, current control methods for this species remain limited in terms of efficacy and cost-effectiveness.

In this study, doctoral researcher Trần Thị Anh Thoa focused on elucidating the growth characteristics and stolon-forming capacity of water hyacinth, whilst investigating the impact of sodium chloride (NaCl) in controlling the development of the aquatic weed.

The research findings indicate that, under in vitro culture conditions, NAA at a concentration of 0.25 mg/L is capable of stimulating adventitious root development, whereas BA at concentrations of 0.5 – 1 mg/L promotes lateral branching and stolon elongation. These results contribute additional data regarding the role of plant growth regulators in the development of water hyacinth.

Furthermore, the thesis demonstrated the impact of NaCl treatment on water hyacinth. Treatment with 3% NaCl supplemented with 1‰ Tween 20 causes irreversible damage to the leaves, including permanently open stomata, chloroplast deformation, diminished chlorophyll content, impaired photosynthetic activity, and alterations to the fast chlorophyll fluorescence transient (OJIP) curve. The study also recorded the migration and accumulation of Na⁺ and Cl^– ions in the leaves, petioles, and rhizomes, alongside alterations to phytohormone balance within the rhizomes.

Notably, field trial results in a lake with a water hyacinth coverage exceeding 384 m² revealed that spraying 6% NaCl (supplemented with 1‰ Tween 20) over the entire foliar surface significantly reduces survival rates and stolon-forming capacity. Upon repeating the treatment after 4 weeks, approximately 40% of the mother plants failed to recover, and the proportion of plants with stolons decreased to 30% compared to the control group.

The outcomes of the thesis have contributed to a clearer understanding of the growth mechanisms, development, and responses of water hyacinth under salinity stress, whilst opening up novel avenues for researching more efficient and feasible measures to control the expansion of this aquatic plant.

In addition to the achievements realised, the thesis proposes future research directions, such as conducting deeper investigations into phytohormone signalling pathways under salinity stress, as well as optimising NaCl treatment methods for appropriate application in controlling water hyacinth within canals and waterways.

The Assessment Committee determined that the thesis possesses significant scientific value, providing further baseline data for studies on aquatic plant physiology, and officially recognised the work as meeting the doctoral thesis standards of the educational institution.

 

On 13 June, at VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS), doctoral researcher Trần Phương Dung, from the Theoretical and Physical Chemistry doctoral programme (2020 cohort), successfully defended a doctoral thesis entitled “A computational study of the oxygen reduction reaction on metalloporphyrin catalysts”. The research was supervised by Associate Professor Đỗ Ngọc Sơn (VNUHCM–University of Technology) and Associate Professor Phạm Trần Nguyên Nguyên (HCMUS).

During the viva, Trần Phương Dung presented key research findings regarding the catalytic activity of metalloporphyrin materials and heterogeneous metalloporphyrin catalysts supported on two-dimensional MoS₂ for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The ORR represents a cornerstone reaction in energy conversion processes, particularly within the development of catalytic materials for fuel cells and clean energy systems.

To conduct the study, the doctoral researcher employed computational chemistry simulation methods based on density functional theory (DFT), combined with thermodynamic modelling. This approach enabled the investigation of electronic structure alterations, charge transfer processes, and the energetic mechanisms of reaction steps at the atomic level.

The thesis focuses on three primary research directions. Firstly, the study investigates the influence of functional groups (methyl, amino, and carboxyl) substituted at the meso position of the iron porphyrin ring. This investigation clarifies the role of these substituents in modulating charge distribution around the active iron (Fe) metal centre, alongside the subsequent impact on the catalytic activity of the material.

Secondly, the research evaluates the heterogeneous catalytic system MeTMP/MoS₂ (where Me = Fe, Co, Ni). Computational results indicate that the interaction between the porphyrin layer and the MoS₂ support medium can enhance catalytic properties. The cobalt-containing catalytic system was identified as possessing high potential for the ORR, owing to a capacity for reducing activation energy and suppressing the competing hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).

Thirdly, the thesis examines the impact of doping heteroatoms (B, P, S, Co) into the central region of the CoTMP/MoS₂ catalyst. The findings demonstrate that doping with certain elements, such as boron (B) and phosphorus (P), provides the capability to tune reaction energies, thereby contributing to enhanced selectivity of the catalytic material towards desired reaction pathways.

The outcomes of this thesis contribute valuable theoretical foundations to the study of reaction mechanisms on catalytic material surfaces via computational chemistry methods. Furthermore, the research offers significant insights to guide the design and development of metalloporphyrin-based oxygen reduction catalysts for applications within the clean energy sector.

The Examination Committee affirmed that the thesis rests upon a sound scientific foundation, employs appropriate research methodologies, and holds substantial reference value for subsequent studies in related fields. Consequently, the Committee recommended that Trần Phương Dung be awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry.

On the morning of 12 June, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the Institute of Coastal Engineering (under the Ģ����ý Academy for Water Resources) and REECO Science and Technology Co., Ltd (Reecotech), aimed at strengthening the connections between education, research, and professional practice.

The signing ceremony took place within the framework of the “Marine Space and Climate Change” seminar, organised by the Faculty of Physics and Engineering Physics, with the participation of representatives from the partner institutions, lecturers, researchers, and students.

According to the agreement signed with the Institute of Coastal Engineering, the two sides will coordinate to implement practical training and internship programmes, supporting students in accessing research and professional working environments. Concurrently, the Institute of Coastal Engineering and HCMUS will enhance cooperation in teaching activities, expert exchanges, the sharing of professional experience, and the development of scholarship programmes for students. Through these initiatives, students will gain further opportunities to access the fields of marine research, monitoring, and resource management; progressively improving practical capacity and the ability to adapt to professional working environments after graduation.

Alongside the expansion of cooperation with research institutes, HCMUS also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with REECO Science and Technology Co., Ltd (Reecotech). The agreement aims to enhance alignment between educational activities and the practical needs of enterprises, whilst creating conditions for students to access technologies, equipment, and applied solutions within the fields of Oceanography, Meteorology, Hydrology, and Environmental Science.

The collaborative contents focus on training support, human resource development, professional knowledge sharing, and the creation of opportunities for students to participate in internships, corporate visits, career exchanges, and professional development orientation. The involvement of the enterprise is expected to contribute to helping learners update technological trends, clearly understand the needs of the labour market, and enhance the ability to apply knowledge into practice.

On this occasion, the Institute of Coastal Engineering and Reecotech presented scholarships to students of Oceanography. This practical activity aims to encourage the spirit of learning and research, whilst supporting learners on the journey of pursuing marine science.

The establishment and expansion of the collaborative network with specialized research institutes and enterprises further affirm the strategic direction of HCMUS in connecting education, research, and reality. Through specific cooperation programmes, students receive additional opportunities to approach professional environments, enhance practical competence, and progressively prepare career foundations within the fields of oceanography, meteorology, hydrology, and environmental science.

 

On 1 June, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) partnered with Synopsys to host the opening ceremony of the Intensive Training Program 2026 (ITP2026), welcoming 30 outstanding students selected from various universities across the country to participate in the 13-week training course.

Against the backdrop of the semiconductor industry becoming a strategic priority for government development, the demand for high-quality human resources in IC design continues to escalate. ITP2026 has been organised to bridge the gap between higher education and practical corporate requirements, whilst enabling students to engage with an industry-standard working environment during their academic studies.

Speaking at the ceremony, Assoc. Prof. Trần Lê Quan, President of HCMUS, remarked that IC design currently receives extraordinary interest from both the government and society due to the expanding need for skilled professionals. According to the President, to match the rapid pace of industry growth, short-term intensive training programmes such as ITP2026 serve as an urgent solution, contributing to the supply of high-quality personnel for the community.

Over five cohorts, the Intensive Training Program has attracted more than 250 students. Programme statistics reveal that over 90% of former participants secured employment at semiconductor firms within three months of course completion. These figures demonstrate the growing enthusiasm among students for IC design, whilst reflecting the efficacy of a training model built upon a robust partnership between academia and industry.

The year 2026 marks a distinctive milestone as HCMUS assumes the role of primary host for the first time, in collaboration with Synopsys. This partnership fosters a practice-oriented learning environment, allowing students early access to the technologies, tools, and workflows currently utilised within the global semiconductor sector.

Throughout the 13 weeks of training, participants will receive guidance from HCMUS faculty members who hold the Synopsys Train The Trainer certification, alongside corporate experts and mentors. The curriculum focuses on extensive practical application, featuring a comprehensive system of laboratory sessions, professional documentation, and modern IC design tools.

Notably, students will have the opportunity to experience the entire IC design workflow from the Synthesis stage through to Signoff in accordance with industry standards. Through this process, undergraduates not only reinforce theoretical knowledge but also gain a profound understanding of real-world product development, progressively cultivating the technical mindset and capabilities required by employers.

Entering the sixth cohort, the Intensive Training Program continues to prove an effective bridge connecting academia, industry, and the student community passionate about IC design. Beyond providing access to advanced expertise and practical experience, the initiative contributes to the formation of a professional network, establishing a foundation for the younger generation of engineers to participate in the rapidly expanding semiconductor value chain in Ģ����ý.

Representatives from the Management Board of the Ho Chi Minh City High-Tech Agricultural Zone, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade, and VNUHCM–University of Science performing the launching ritual for the 2026 Innovation and Start-up Competition in High-Tech Agriculture.

On 29 May, at VNUHCM–University of Science, the Management Board of the Ho Chi Minh City High-Tech Agricultural Zone, in collaboration with HCMUS, organised the launch ceremony for the 2026 Innovation and Start-up Competition in High-Tech Agriculture. Under the theme “Circular Agriculture – Shaping a Green Future”, the competition aims to promote ideas and projects that apply science, technology, and innovation to agricultural development, focusing on green, circular, and sustainable models.

The event was attended by Mr Nguyễn Duy Sơn, Vice Head of the Management Board of the Ho Chi Minh City High-Tech Agricultural Zone; Ms Bùi Thị Lưu Ly, representing the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade and member of the competition’s Organising Committee; and Ms Vương Thị Hồng Loan, Director of the High-Tech Agricultural Business Incubator. Representing HCMUS were Assoc. Prof. Trần Lê Quan, President of the University, along with representatives from various offices, lecturers, researchers, postgraduate students, and undergraduates interested in innovative start-up activities.

In the opening address, Mr Nguyễn Duy Sơn emphasised the significance of connecting resources from state management agencies, educational institutions, businesses, and experts to foster the innovation ecosystem within high-tech agriculture. According to Mr Nguyễn Duy Sơn, as green transition and sustainable development become inevitable global trends, circular agricultural models offer numerous opportunities for start-up initiatives rich in scientific and technological content, contributing to resolving challenges related to the environment, natural resources, and climate change.

In the welcoming speech, Assoc. Prof. Trần Lê Quan affirmed that HCMUS consistently regards scientific research, technology transfer, and innovative entrepreneurship as key pillars in the strategic development of the institution. The President highly commended the collaboration with the Management Board of the Ho Chi Minh City High-Tech Agricultural Zone, which provides students, researchers, and faculty members with further avenues to access start-up support programmes tailored to the practical needs of society and industry.

Within the framework of the programme, the Management Board of the Ho Chi Minh City High-Tech Agricultural Zone presented a letter of appreciation to HCMUS to acknowledge the invaluable partnership of the University in organising and advancing activities that support the innovative start-up ecosystem.

Alongside the official launch, the event featured keynote presentations addressing trends in circular agriculture and the commercialisation of scientific research outcomes.

Dr Nguyễn Hữu Hoàng, Director of the High-Tech Agricultural Applied Research Centre at HCMUS, delivered a presentation entitled “Commercialising Research Products in Agricultural Science – Key Case Studies”. The presentation shared practical insights into transforming research findings into viable, marketable products, thereby enhancing the value of scientific research activities.

Mr Tôn Thất Hạc Minh, a consultant specialising in sustainable development and the circular economy, and founder of EarthWise Consulting, presented on “Circular Agriculture Towards Net Zero”. The report provided updated insights into green transition trends in agriculture whilst highlighting the role of innovation in reducing emissions, optimising resource efficiency, and adapting to climate change.

From a corporate perspective, Dr Nguyễn Thị Vân Linh, Director of VinaCrop Co., Ltd. and Head of the Department of Food Technology at Nguyen Tat Thanh University, shared experiences in establishing and developing circular agricultural models, whilst exploring collaborative opportunities between enterprises and academic institutions in research, product development, and innovation.

The highlight of the event was the official launching ceremony, performed by representatives from the Organising Committee and collaborating institutions. The 2026 Innovation and Start-up Competition in High-Tech Agriculture is anticipated to serve as a vital bridge connecting scientific knowledge, industry demands, and resources that foster innovation. Through this initiative, promising ideas and projects will receive incubation, refinement, and eventual commercialisation, driving high-tech agriculture, the circular economy, and green growth forward into a new era.

On 27 May 2026, VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS) hosted a meeting of the Evaluation Committee for the VNUHCM-level research project: ‘Study of the effects of plant growth regulators on the development of rice grains (Oryza sativa L.)’, chaired by Associate Professor Trần Thanh Hương.

The research focused on investigating the developmental process of OM5451 seed rice and evaluating the impact of plant growth regulators on both maturation time and grain weight under cultivation conditions in the Mekong Delta. This research direction holds significant relevance against the backdrop of agricultural production facing increasingly pronounced impacts from climate change, particularly for rice – one of the strategic crops of Ģ����ý.

The findings demonstrate that rice grain development is a complex physiological process, closely linked to changes in photosynthesis, respiration, chlorophyll content, and the activity of plant hormones through each growth stage. The research team identified significant variations in auxin, gibberellin, zeatin, and abscisic acid (ABA) during grain developmental stages, thereby contributing to clarifying the role of growth regulators in the physiological ripening process of rice grains.

The findings also indicate that application of plant growth regulators at appropriate times can shorten the maturation period of rice grains. Specifically, treating rice with GA3 at a concentration of 50 mg/L during the booting stage allows grains to mature 9.1 days earlier than the control group, whilst contributing to an increase in grain weight. Furthermore, application of Ethephon during the hard dough stage reduces maturation time by approximately 6.2 days without altering grain weight. These results open up prospects for applying plant growth regulators to optimise seasonal timing, enhance production efficiency, and adapt to changing climatic conditions.

In the course of implementation, the project published two international scientific papers indexed in Scopus. Additionally, the project contributed to training one doctoral student whose research focuses on the development of rice flowers and fruit to shorten the maturation stage.

The Committee assessed that the project possesses an appropriate research scope, feasible methodology, reliable results, and practical application value. The project has fulfilled all set objectives, determined appropriate treatment methods, and was unanimously passed with a high evaluation rating.

 

On 22 May 2026, a symposium themed ‘Patent Protection and Commercialisation in Higher Education and Research Institutes’ was hosted at VNUHCM–University of Science (HCMUS). The event aimed to raise awareness and catalyse the registration, management, and commercialisation of intellectual property derived from scientific, technological, and innovative activities within the higher education and research sectors.

The symposium was jointly organised by the Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Center (IPTC) of Ģ����ý National University Ho Chi Minh City – University of Science, and the Center for Research, Training, Support and Advisory Services under the Intellectual Property Office of Ģ����ý (Ministry of Science and Technology). The event attracted a large audience of lecturers, scientists, intellectual property experts, and students interested in research, innovation, and technology transfer.

Addressing the symposium, speakers emphasised the escalating importance of intellectual property, noting that scientific research must transcend academic publication to foster intellectual assets with practical exploitation value. Such assets are vital for enhancing competitiveness, driving innovation, and developing a knowledge-based economy.

Session 1: Identifying Intellectual Property Formed from Research Activities: Practical Experiences

In the session titled ‘Identifying Intellectual Property Formed from Research Activities: Practical Experiences’, Dr Nghiêm Biên—Head of Innovation and Head of Intellectual Property at Bosch Global Software Technologies—offered a corporate perspective on identifying intellectual property within research and development (R&D) activities. The presentation highlighted that a single research output often encompasses multiple layers of intellectual property rights, such as patents, trade secrets, copyright, industrial designs, or trademarks; therefore, identifying the true nature of the output is essential to choosing the appropriate form of protection.

The speaker also introduced a structured patent identification process based on defining the technical problem, demonstrating technical efficacy, comparing the solution with existing technologies, and broadening the scope of protection. Case studies spanning autonomous vehicles, advanced materials, and industrial AI were presented to illustrate how research findings can be transformed into intellectual property with strong commercial potential.

Session 2: Patent Registration from Research Findings: Current Status and Solutions

During the session ‘Patent Registration from Research Findings: Current Status and Solutions’, Assoc. Prof. Từ Diệp Công Thành—Director of the Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Center (IPTC), Ģ����ý National University Ho Chi Minh City—analysed the comprehensive landscape of patent registration within universities and research institutes. The report indicated that intellectual property is evolving into a ‘core infrastructure’ for competitiveness, rather than being treated merely as a ‘by-product’ of scientific research. The speaker further distinguished between academic papers and patents, stating that publications aim to disseminate knowledge, whereas patents focus on protecting technical solutions and securing exclusive rights.

Several bottlenecks were identified, including a shortage of professional mechanisms to recognise and draft patent applications, limited capacity for rigorous examination akin to the standards of patent examiners, and the absence of centralised intellectual property governance with clearly defined responsibilities and cost structures. To address these challenges, IPTC proposed a centralised intellectual property management model designed to professionalise patent creation and prosecution, whilst strengthening screening, evaluation, and investment mechanisms aligned with commercialisation potential.

Session 3: Exploitation and Commercialisation of Patents from Universities and Research Institutes

In the final session, ‘Exploitation and Commercialisation of Patents from Universities and Research Institutes’, Dr Nguyễn Hữu Cẩn—Acting Director General of the Ģ����ý Intellectual Property Research Institute, Ministry of Science and Technology—clarified the fundamental nature of commercialising intellectual assets. According to the speaker, commercialisation extends far beyond the mere buying and selling of technology; the process represents the transformation of knowledge into socio-economic value through the protection, governance, evaluation, development, and exploitation of intellectual property. The presentation also outlined prevalent commercialisation models, including technology licensing, spin-offs or startups, and joint research ventures with industry.

Furthermore, the speaker analysed various impediments to current intellectual property commercialisation, such as equating the sheer volume of patents with actual commercialisation capacity, a lack of comprehensive market assessments and legal risk evaluations, and institutional anomalies in benefit-sharing mechanisms between organisations and scientists.

Through insightful presentations and in-depth discussions, the symposium offered valuable practical perspectives on the trajectory from scientific research to the establishment of intellectual property rights and technology commercialisation. The event successfully fostered stronger connections between scientists, regulatory bodies, and industry partners, contributing to the development of a robust innovation ecosystem aimed at maximizing the value of intellectual property within higher education institutions and research bodies.