Suvit Tia obtained his bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering and master’s degree in Energy Technology from King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Thonburi (now King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, KMUTT). After obtaining his doctoral degree in Energy Technology from the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in 1990, Suvit joined the Department of Chemical Engineering, KMUTT, where he is currently an Associate Professor.
Suvit has worked as project leader on a number of projects, some of which are of regional and international nature. Notably, he was the country project leader in the following projects: (1) ASEAN-EU University Network on Biomass and Waste for Renewable Energy (BiWaRE) in 2004-2005 (2) EU: Asia-Invest II Programme on Handling and Treatment of Oil Contaminated Water in Thai Industries and Trades in 2006-2007, and (3) EU: Asia-Link Programme Phase III (INVENT) Integrated Waste Management Modules for Different Courses of Graduate Studies in 2007-2008. Suvit was awarded as a 2005-2006 PTIT Fellow from the Petroleum Institute of Thailand for his excellent teaching record and contribution to improvement of education in the fields of petroleum.
Suvit’s academic and research experience in energy technology has resulted in developing a close working relationship with the private sector, heading a number of important projects involving the design and installation of drying processes for agricultural produces and a fluidized bed furnace for a small power producer. From 1999-2007, Suvit served as Director of the Pilot Plant Development and Training Institute (PDTI), an autonomous unit within KMUTT designed to serve as bridge between research and industry needs by developing and transferring advanced technology to the private sector. He also helped KMUTT establish their Industrial Park and he served as a Vice President at the University from 2005-2006. His strengths now include the management of complex research programs, building research teams and energy policy, particularly with regard to biofuels.
Suvit was appointed Deputy Executive Director of BIOTEC in November 2008 and is responsible for technology transfer and business development activities.
