National Science and Technolgoy Development Agency (NSTDA)

The National Science and Technology Development Agency, or NSTDA, is a funding and research organization established under the “Science and Technology Development Act of B.E.2534” (1991) on December 30, 1991. NSTDA is an autonomous organization operating under the policy guidance of its Board, chaired by the Minister of Science and Technology. This special organization outside the normal framework of state enterprise and civil service enables NSTDA to take a broad-based approach to science and technology (S&T) development in support of national economic and social policies, and allows it to respond not only to technological advances, but also to the changing economic and social needs of the country as these become relevant to S&T activities.

Functions :
1. To conduct surveys, studies and assessments for supporting the formulation of policies, plans, programs and measures that facilitate the national science and technology development, for submission to the Minister.
2. To conduct research, development and engineering activities, and support research, development and engineering activities of the public sector, the private sector, and the educational institutions as well as promoting co-operation in such activities among the private and public sectors and the educational institutions, including international co-operation, for the development of commercial benefits from these activities.
3. To provide and support services in the areas of product standards testing, quality assurance, instrument calibration, technological information and consultancy, and other scientific and technological services.
4. To support the enhancement of the capabilities in assessing and acquiring imported technology as well as in management of investment and development projects related to the acquisition and assimilation of foreign technology so that the technologies acquired are efficient and appropriate and the activities implemented help strengthen the technological capacity of the country.
5. To implement and promote the development of the scientific and technological infrastructure of the country, inclusive of science and technology human resources development in both the public and private sectors.

Organization Structure :
1. Central Office (CO)
2. National Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Center (BIOTEC)
3. National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC)
4. National Electronics and Computer Technology Center (NECTE)