Ministry of Higher Education Pauses Professor Appointment Amid Academic Integrity Probe

On August 23, 2026, Professor Dr. Supachai Pathumnakul, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), confirmed that the ministry has not submitted a request for the royal appointment of a Chiang Mai University (CMU) staff member to the position of professor. This decision follows formal complaints regarding the individual's academic work and research ethics.

According to the Ministry, the appointment process remains suspended while officials await further evidence. The Ministry previously requested additional documentation from CMU in May 2026 to clarify the allegations, but reports indicate that the requested information has not yet been received. The Ministry emphasized that while it oversees the final appointment process, the primary responsibility for investigating research misconduct and determining disciplinary actions rests with the university itself.

For residents and those involved in Thailand’s academic community, this case highlights the ongoing scrutiny of research standards within public institutions. The situation remains unresolved, as the Ministry awaits a comprehensive report from CMU to determine whether the academic work in question meets the required ethical standards. Until the university provides the necessary documentation and the Ministry completes its review, the appointment will remain on hold. The Ministry reiterated that maintaining research integrity is a fundamental priority for the nation's academic reputation.