Kanchana Wanichkorn has joined the Office of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO) as a Vice President since established in May 2019. She has led a team of researchers and analysts to formulate of the first national policy framework for higher education, science, research and innovation, endorsed by the Policy Council and the Cabinet in August 2019. She is currently working on a number of policy initiatives including bio-circular-green economy policy, frontier research programs, and research & innovation strategy for AI economy. Kanchana also currently serves as a member of the sub-committee on science, research and innovation of the Senate.
Prior to joining NXPO, Kanchana was at the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Office from 2008 to 2019 where she held her last position as the Deputy Secretary General in charge of the directorate of strategic foresight and policy planning. Her works include the design and implementation of science, technology and innovation (STI) strategies to enhance national competitiveness. Kanchana has involved in the development of many national policies, including the national STI policy 2012 – 2021, talent mobility and management policy, STI international co-operation and science diplomacy strategy, ASEAN Plan of Action on STI 2016-2025, the reform of national research and innovation system, and the formation of the new ministry of higher education, science, research and innovation.
Prior to joining the National STI Policy Office, Kanchana was a policy researcher at the National Electronics and Computer Technology Center (NECTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) from 2002 to 2008. Kanchana received her PhD in Engineering & Public Policy and MS in Electrical & Computer Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University, MA in Applied Economics from University of Michigan and BS (Distinction) in Mechanical Engineering from University of Minnesota, USA.