The journey of many scientists begins with a small curiosity in the classroom. For Phanu Sereewichayasawat, an alumnus of the School of Science at Mae Fah Luang University, that curiosity evolved into a driving force that led him into the world of genomics and toward creating innovation on an international stage.
During his final year as an undergraduate student, Phanu had the opportunity to participate in an exchange program in South Korea. This experience exposed him to new academic and research environments, particularly laboratory-based work in plant genetics. It was during this time that he began to recognize the power of genetic data in explaining complex biological phenomena.
Phanu reflects that studying at the School of Science, combined with his exchange experience, marked a pivotal turning point. It sparked his deep interest in genomics and bioinformatics, motivating him to pursue advanced studies and develop expertise in large-scale genetic data analysis.
After completing both his master’s and doctoral degrees in fields related to genomics and bioinformatics, Phanu joined the Swedish Museum of Natural History. This period marked an important transition—from conducting laboratory research to developing innovations that could be applied in real-world contexts, including industry, policy, and environmental management.
He later co-founded a startup in Sweden called GenomeVault, which focuses on advancing biodiversity monitoring and reporting through the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) and population-level genomic analysis.
The company’s innovation integrates genome-wide sequencing with metagenomics and bioinformatics to transform complex genetic data into meaningful ecological insights. This approach enables more precise and comprehensive monitoring of biodiversity.
At the core of GenomeVault’s concept is the use of DNA traces found in the environment—such as in water, soil, or air—to identify organisms present in a given ecosystem. This includes microorganisms, fungi, plants, and animals. Compared to traditional survey methods, this approach is faster, more accurate, more comprehensive, and cost-effective. The resulting data can support biodiversity conservation, environmental impact assessments, and sustainable development planning.
Currently, GenomeVault is developing a platform that integrates the entire workflow—from sample collection and DNA analysis to biodiversity reporting—for use by government agencies, conservation organizations, and industry. The platform is designed to be accessible, allowing users without extensive biological training to benefit from advanced genomic data.
Phanu’s journey illustrates how educational opportunities and research experiences at the university level can serve as the foundation for global innovation. From an initial interest in plant genetics, he has become a co-creator of technologies that help decode biodiversity and support the sustainable management of natural resources.
For students exploring their future paths, his story offers a powerful reminder: studying science extends far beyond the classroom. It opens doors to discovery, international opportunities, and innovations that can make a tangible impact on the world. Curiosity, hands-on research, and the courage to explore new experiences may be the starting point of a journey that transforms scientific knowledge into a force for shaping a better future.
