On April 2, 2025, representatives from Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) visited the National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC) for an institutional assessment related to the ongoing ShrimpGuard project. The visit was part of IDRC’s due diligence process, aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of how grantee institutions operate and ensuring compliance with the terms and conditions of the Grant Agreement.
Headed by Dr. Kallaya Sritunyalucksana-Dangtip, Director of Integrative Aquaculture Biotechnology Research Group, the ShrimpGuard project, officially titled “Development of phage-associated formulation to combat antimicrobial-resistant vibriosis in cultured shrimp”, is funded by IDRC for THB 41,605,962 for 32 months, from April 2024 to December 2026. The project focuses on developing innovative and sustainable solutions to address antimicrobial resistance in aquaculture, with a particular emphasis on shrimp farming.
Ms. Katrina Millard, Director of Grant Administration, and Mr. Marc Cohen, Manager of Grant Administration, led the assessment on behalf of IDRC. The visit included discussions with BIOTEC/NSTDA researchers and staff responsible for international grant management, finance and accounting, procurement and human resources.
The meeting provided an open platform to review IDRC’s grant administration policies and foster greater mutual understanding between the funding agency and BIOTEC. It also allowed both parties to explore ways to strengthen collaboration and improve administrative processes moving forward.