SBS Blog > Innovation MSc leads to innovation role in Thailand by Jirapan Christian Linares

Innovation MSc leads to innovation role in Thailand

By Jirapan Christian Linares - Posted on 9 April 2025

Alumna Jirapan Christian Linares was recently shortlisted in the 2025 Study UK Alumni Awards in Thailand. Here, she outlines how she is strengthening innovation ecosystems in Thailand while pursuing collaboration in the UK.

I chose to do the MSc Project Management and Innovation at Strathclyde because of its strong reputation - Strathclyde Business School is among the UK’s top 10 business schools. As a project coordinator conducting feasibility studies for Thai product commercialisation, I sought a programme combining project management and innovation with hands-on learning. Strathclyde’s industry collaborations, dynamic research environment, and up-to-date curriculum made it the perfect fit. The programme’s integration of innovation and entrepreneurship aligned with my goal of managing innovation-driven projects.

The MSc programme provided a strong foundation in project management, innovation strategies, and commercialisation. Beyond technical knowledge, I developed crucial soft skills - problem-solving, adaptability, and teamwork. A challenging group project taught me a valuable lesson in conflict resolution when I had to collaborate with a teammate I initially struggled with. With guidance, I learned to turn differences into strengths, a skill essential in real-world projects. The course’s hands-on approach and international collaboration broadened my perspective. Studying in Glasgow, with its vibrant culture and welcoming community, made my experience even more enriching, and Strathclyde’s strong industry connections added immense value.

After graduation, my goal was to return to Thailand and strengthen innovation ecosystems and commercialisation pathways as an innovation enabler. I aimed to apply my experiences to foster ecosystem-building for innovation, leveraging international collaboration. My time at Strathclyde deepened my interest in academia/industry collaboration, leading me to work on projects with the UK and other international institutions. While my core mission remained the same, my perspective expanded - I saw greater potential in cross-border collaborations to drive impactful innovation. This shift led me to actively engage in various projects and initiatives that bridge research, industry, and government for sustainable growth.

Career path

Since graduating, I have worked in project management, strategic planning, and international collaborations, focusing on science, technology, and innovation (STI) and entrepreneurial ecosystem building. My work centres on fostering innovation commercialisation and leading initiatives that bridge academia and industry. I have engaged in global partnerships, contributing to key programmes such as the Top Research Executive Training Programme (TREX) with the University of Strathclyde and the Leaders in Innovation Fellowship (LIF) with the Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng) and Oxentia. These experiences have strengthened my ability to drive innovation ecosystems, connect research with market opportunities, and enhance Thailand’s global competitiveness in STI.

I currently work in the Global Partnership Programme at the Programme Management Unit for Competitiveness (PMUC), a Thai government agency. My role focuses on managing strategic projects that drive innovation and commercialisation in Thailand through international collaborations. I foster university-industry partnerships and work with global partners to enhance Thailand's innovation ecosystem. What I enjoy most is making a tangible impact by supporting R&D commercialisation, developing innovation supports, and connecting Thai and UK ecosystems. I also appreciate the opportunity to learn from diverse working styles and cultures, enriching my personal and professional growth.

MSc skills

My MSc equipped me with essential skills in project evaluation, strategic planning, and stakeholder management, which I apply in my current role. It enhanced my understanding of innovation management, helping me lead initiatives that bridge academia, industry, and government. The multicultural environment broadened my perspective, teaching me to respect diverse viewpoints and adapt to global challenges. The UK's entrepreneurial culture inspired creativity, resilience, and risk-taking, all of which I’ve integrated into my career to foster innovation and drive impactful change.

Future plans

My goal is to expand UK-Thailand collaborations, focusing on projects that strengthen innovation ecosystems and engage additional key stakeholders. I aim to foster deeper partnerships and drive impactful change by leveraging cross-border collaborations. Additionally, I want to inspire and support Thai entrepreneurs and innovators by sharing the insights and skills I have gained. Through my various roles, I’ve gained valuable knowledge and experience that I’m eager to pass on, helping others navigate their entrepreneurial journeys. By doing so, I hope to contribute to the growth of Thailand's innovation landscape and encourage a culture of continuous learning and collaboration.

Study UK award

I was recently shortlisted for the Business and Innovation category in the 2025 Study UK Alumni Award in Thailand, recognising my contributions to STI policy, project management, and international collaborations. My UK education equipped me to create lasting change in Thailand’s innovation ecosystem by applying insights in innovation, strategic foresight, and commercialisation. Inspired by my visit to the Technology & Innovation Centre at the University of Strathclyde, I’ve focused on bridging the gap between research and business, helping Thai researchers and entrepreneurs commercialise their ideas. I’ve also built strong relationships with UK institutions like RAEng to foster international collaborations. Additionally, I advocate for recognising facilitators and innovation enablers, including women in STI, who play a critical role in innovation ecosystems. My work connects Thai businesses with global opportunities, and I aim to continue driving synergies between the UK and Thailand for sustainable growth and innovation.