The ninth National Social and Economic Development Plan (2002-2006) set a research investment goal at 0.40% of the gross domestic product. Forecasts for 2006 predict the GDP will reach 6 trillion baht. In order for such investment to be beneficial for the country as a whole, there should be research investment of at least 24 billion baht, there should be at least 240 research administrators, and there must be a high-quality research infrastructure, including both research institutions and research funding organizations.

   TRF’s intentions are to help construct a strong Thai research infrastructure. Policy, budgeting, expenses, research institutions, researchers, and research culture are areas identified by TRF as needing focus. Development requires improving research investment in terms of quality and amount. This fiscal year there is an investment of about 9 billion baht. For maximum benefit of the country, five times this amount should be invested. Additionally, ten times the present number of researchers are needed, and the number of strong research institutions must be increased. Finally, strategies must be set up for attracting more talent into the research career. In this regard, systems for the establishment of professional research and research administrator should be introduced in Thailand.