Associate Professor Dr. Chu Manh Hung from the School of Materials Science received the award for Outstanding Innovation, while Dr. Vu Thi Tan from the School of Chemistry and Life Sciences was honored with an Encouragement Prize.

Dr. Hung’s current research focuses on the synthesis and structural characterization of nanostructured semiconducting materials for sensor applications, the development of two-dimensional (2D) materials, and advanced techniques for material analysis using synchrotron radiation sources.

Meanwhile, Dr. Tan’s work centers on advanced carbon-based materials and environmentally friendly cosmetics. She has also led research into the synthesis of nanoscale metal oxide compounds for energy and environmental applications, purification of graphite for electrode fabrication, and development of flame-retardant and heat-insulating inorganic coatings.

Global recognition for science with practical impact

The Asia Innovation Award is organized by the Hitachi Global Foundation and has been running since 2020. It honors outstanding achievements in scientific research and encourages real-world application in alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The award program is open to a select group of institutions across ASEAN, with a limited number of nominations permitted from each. Candidates are evaluated based on their level of innovation, real-world applicability, and contribution to sustainable development.

The award is divided into several categories: the Grand Prize for Outstanding Innovation, the Innovation Award, and the Encouragement Prize, with each prize accompanied by a cash award.

In the 2025 edition, around 26 eligible universities from ASEAN countries participated, making the selection highly competitive. The recognition of both Vietnamese scientists underscores the country’s growing presence in regional science and technology discourse.

Sustained success for Vietnamese science in Asia

In 2024, six Vietnamese scientists were among 14 recipients of the award across ASEAN, further cementing Vietnam’s role as an emerging leader in applied science and innovation.

This year’s honors for Dr. Hung and Dr. Tan continue that momentum, spotlighting the breadth of research talent within HUST - from cutting-edge semiconductor materials to green, scalable technologies for real-world applications.

Thuy Nga