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Walailak University (WU) continues to demonstrate outstanding research performance, showing remarkable growth in Scopus-indexed publications and maintaining the No. 1 position in Thailand for the highest proportion of papers in Q1 and Q1-Q2 journals for three consecutive years since 2023.

As of 1 October 2025, data retrieved from Scopus showed that WU researchers had published 757 papers, reflecting a steady upward trend compared with 764 papers in the full year of 2024 and 654 papers in 2023.

“We are relatively a new comer on the research scene, and we have fewer than 800 academics, so this achievement is laudable,” said Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of WU.

The increase in publications can be attributed to enhanced international collaboration - 66% in 2025, up from 61.9% in 2024 and 55.3% in 2023.

Beyond the rise in publication numbers, WU has also demonstrated consistent excellence in research quality. Data from SciVal showed that the university ranked No. 1 in Thailand for the proportion of publications in Q1 journals - the top 25% of global journals - at 81.8%, rising from 77.4% in 2024 and 68.3% in 2023.


Graph shows the proportion of publications in Q1 journal Quartile by CiteScore (%) among 20 Thai universities ranked in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025 (Source: SciVal).

Similarly, when considering publications in Q1 and Q2 journals combined, WU maintained its No. 1 position nationwide, achieving 93.8% in 2025, up from 90% in 2024 and 87.3% in 2023.

President Sombat emphasized that the university places great importance on research, as it serves as the foundation for creating new knowledge and driving innovation.

“Research not only equips our lecturers with the latest insights to enrich their teaching but also enables the application of academic findings to industry, fostering mutual growth and sustainable development. Conducting research allows lecturers to gain new knowledge and develop creative ideas, which in turn enhances the learning experience for students who benefit from being taught by highly capable and research-driven educators."

"In the future, this will further strengthen Walailak University’s identity and credibility as a truly research-intensive university,” he said.

WU has built a strong foundation and a supportive environment that empower lecturers to produce high-quality, globally competitive work. Its strong publication record in high-impact journals has also led to a significant increase in citations.

In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025, WU was ranked in the 1201–1500 band worldwide and sixth in Thailand, with its performance in Research Quality placing it among the Top 5 in the country.

Additionally, several WU researchers have also been included among the World’s Top 2% Scientists by Stanford University, further underscoring the university’s commitment to advancing knowledge and contributing to global research excellence.