A Visionary Leader in Biomedical Engineering: Assoc. Prof. Supan Tungjitkusolmun
In this installment of our Board of Trustees series, we introduce Assoc. Prof. Supan Tungjitkusolmun, President of CMKL University and Program Director of the Doctoral of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering at KMITL. A trailblazer in biomedical engineering and a champion of transformative education, his journey is one of passion, innovation, and leadership.
From Scholarship Student to Biomedical Engineering Pioneer
His academic journey is as inspiring as it is impressive. Beginning as a scholarship student, he earned his place at Kent School in Kent, Connecticut, before continuing his education through scholarships in medical electronics and from the Ministry of Science and Technology.
He pursued a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at the University of Pennsylvania before earning his Master’s and PhD in Electrical Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, focusing on medical engineering under the mentorship of John Webster, one of the founding fathers of the field.
“John Webster taught me more than just the technical aspects of medical engineering. His ethics, practical problem-solving approach, and encouragement to think beyond the obvious inspired me to pursue this field wholeheartedly,” he reflects.
Returning to Thailand, he saw an opportunity to bring biomedical engineering to the forefront. In 2002, he co-founded one of the country’s first biomedical engineering undergraduate programs at KMITL. By 2012, he had played a pivotal role in launching the nation’s first Master’s and PhD programs in biomedical engineering.
A Dual Role: Leadership and Research
As President of CMKL University, he is committed to transforming the institution into a global hub for education and innovation. He’s also deeply engaged in academic research as the Program Director of the Doctoral of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering at KMITL, ensuring quality and fostering groundbreaking projects.
His current research focuses on revolutionizing the treatment of cardiac arrhythmia. “We’re developing AI-driven tools to help doctors pinpoint and treat irregular heartbeats without invasive surgery,” he explains. This cutting-edge technology, developed in collaboration with Bumrungrad Hospital, has the potential to make treatments more accessible and recovery faster.
“Combining AI and medical expertise allows us to create solutions that impact lives on a broader scale,”
Milestones Rooted in Empathy and Innovation
His career is not just about technical breakthroughs; it’s also a testament to his empathy and ability to solve complex challenges.
As the Associate Dean of the School of Engineering at KMITL, he became known for his problem-solving approach. One standout case involved a student struggling academically. After delving deeper, Supan discovered the student was unhappy in his field of study due to parental pressure. By facilitating an honest conversation between the student and his parents, he helped the student find a path aligned with his true passions.
“With creativity and empathy, even the toughest problems can be resolved,”
Later, as Provost of KMITL, he gained invaluable experience managing daily institutional challenges, learning to balance diverse perspectives and build collaborative solutions.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, he envisions CMKL University as a hub for nurturing AI talent and driving societal transformation. His dream extends to advancing biomedical engineering in Thailand, creating a larger research hub that empowers students and professionals to push the boundaries of technology and medicine.
“Our country has world-class medical capabilities; we are one of the best in the world, and I want Thailand to also lead in biomedical engineering,” he states passionately.
Leadership with Heart
When asked about his leadership style, he describes it as inclusive and empathetic. “Leadership is about ensuring everyone benefits and succeeds together. It’s about understanding different perspectives and working toward fair and impactful solutions,” he explains.
Words of Wisdom for Future Innovators
His advice to the next generation of leaders is simple yet profound:
“Never stop learning—knowledge is infinite. Be a giver in your own way, creating opportunities for others. Success isn’t just personal achievement; it is the value you create for those around you.”
He encourages students to think broadly and remain curious:
“Don’t confine yourself to one field. Be a 360-degree thinker who explores new knowledge without bias. Whether it’s learning a new language or diving into a different discipline, stay open to growth.”
Inspiring Change, Leading the Way
Assoc. Prof. Supan Tungjitkusolmun’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of dedication, empathy, and vision. Through his leadership, CMKL University continues to thrive as a center for innovation, education, and real-world solutions. His legacy as a pioneer in biomedical engineering and a mentor to future leaders is shaping the future of education and healthcare in Thailand—and beyond.
