Prof. Dr. Nguyen Duc Thai

Prof. Dr. Nguyen Duc Thai is a renowned Vietnamese-American scientist in the United States, specializing in molecular biology, genetics, immunology, and cell therapy. He is distinguished for his significant international contributions, including the discovery of the first gene linked to glaucoma — a disease affecting more than 70 million people worldwide — and is recognized as one of the pioneering scientists advancing biotechnology and immunotherapy development in Vietnam and internationally.

2.PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE AND LEADERSHIP POSITIONS

- Ph.D., University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), trained under a renowned molecular biologist, where he built a strong foundation in genetic and molecular research.

- Director of the Genetic Research Program on Glaucoma at UCSF, receiving funding from the National Eye Institute (NEI) and other public-private agencies to advance disease gene research.

- Program Director for genetic disease research, responsible for coordinating cross-national research projects and fostering international research collaboration in the field of biotechnology.

- Senior Scientific Advisor and Head of International Relations for the University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City (UMP), supporting the development of translational research from laboratory to clinical application.

3. NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS

- Discovery of the glaucoma-associated gene (TIGR/MYOC): He was among the first to discover and characterize this gene, opening new avenues for genetic diagnosis and a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying this blinding disease.

- Prestigious awards: His work has been recognized with honors such as the Rudi Lewin Award (1998) — the highest U.S. award in ophthalmology research — along with numerous other commendations from UCSF and international organizations.

- Contributions to science and community: He was the first to initiate the TransMed-VN scientific symposium, fostering the exchange of biomedical research experience between researchers in Vietnam and abroad.

- Current research focus: He has expanded his research into immunotherapy, stem cell therapy, and cell-based therapeutics, aiming to develop breakthrough treatments for cancer, autoimmune diseases, and other immune disorders.

4. EDUCATION

Ph.D., University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), USA