Profile
Dr. Pornpoj Fuangtharnthip (Thai)
Position and affiliation: Associate Professor, Mahidol University
Place of residence: Bangkok, Thailand
2000 Pediatric Dentistry, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University
2026 Science Tokyo Alumni Ambassador
Campus life
My most significant learning experience or memory
Studying at Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) was my first experience living abroad, making it one of the most significant periods of my life. Beyond academic learning, I gained invaluable life experiences through friendships with Japanese classmates and scholars from many countries. Living and studying in such an international environment broadened my perspective and taught me how to communicate with people from different cultures. It also deepened my understanding of diverse viewpoints and values. Looking back, I believe the cultural awareness and global mindset I developed at TMDU have greatly contributed to both my personal growth and professional success.
What I liked best about TMDU
What I appreciated most was the people. My first professor, Prof. Hiroshi Ono, who was Chair of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry (year 1995), left a lasting impression on me through his kindness, humility, and calm personality. His support and guidance helped me adjust smoothly to a new environment and inspired me to pursue academic excellence. Moreover, my sincere gratitude to all the professors, staff members, and friends at TMDU. I can say that I found many of my best friends there. Their sincere friendship remains one of the greatest treasures of my life.
Current activities and career
Currently, I serve as Chair of the Department of Advanced General Dentistry at Mahidol University in Thailand. My responsibilities include teaching and mentoring both undergraduate and postgraduate dental students, as well as contributing to curriculum development. In addition to education, I am actively involved in biomedical research, with a particular focus on dental pulp biology, regenerative dentistry, and the potential applications of tropical medicinal herbs in oral health care. Through my work, I strive to integrate education, research, and clinical practice while promoting international collaboration and advancing dental science for the benefit of patients and dental profession.
How my studies at TMDU have contributed to my career
The academic training I received at TMDU strengthened my foundation in dental science and research. Since then, the skills and values I developed there have helped me build international collaborations, mentor students, and advance research throughout my career. I remain deeply grateful to TMDU for its lasting influence on my professional growth.
Message to prospective students
Studying abroad is challenging, but it is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. It offers opportunities not only for academic growth but also for personal development and lifelong learning. To succeed, you need self-discipline, independence, and a willingness to embrace new experiences and perspectives. My time in Japan greatly shaped both my professional career and my outlook on life. As medicine and dentistry become increasingly integrated with advanced technologies, I strongly believe that Science Tokyo offers an ideal place to develop the knowledge, skills, and global perspective needed for your future life and work.
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