On April 24, 2026, the University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (USTH) organized the doctoral dissertation defense for PhD candidate Đỗ Hoàng Giang, majoring in Pharmacological, Medical and Agronomical Biotechnology (code: 9420201), with the dissertation titled: “Phytochemical constituents and bioactivities of Pandanus tectorius and Pandanus amaryllifolius.”
The dissertation was supervised by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Tien Dat (High-Tech Innovation Center, VAST) and co-supervised by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Hai Dang (USTH, VAST).
The defense took place at Room 402, Building A21, USTH, 18 Hoàng Quốc Việt, Nghĩa Đô, Hanoi, with the participation of a 7-member evaluation committee:
- Prof. Dr. Nguyễn Văn Hùng – Institute of Chemistry, VAST – Chairman
- Prof. Dr. Marie-Geneviève Dijoux-Franca – University Lyon 1, France – Reviewer
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vũ Đức Lợi – Vietnam University of Traditional Medicine – Reviewer
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lê Nguyễn Thành – National Institute of Medicinal Materials – Reviewer
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyễn Phi Hùng – Institute of Chemistry, VAST – Member
- Dr. Phạm Hoàng Nam – USTH, VAST – Member
- Dr. Nguyễn Hữu Nghị – USTH, VAST – Member, Secretary
Evaluation and Defense Process
Under the chairmanship of Prof. Dr. Nguyễn Văn Hùng, the defense followed the official academic procedures, including reviewing the candidate’s scientific background, training process, publications, and research achievements throughout the doctoral program.
During the defense, the candidate presented the key findings of the dissertation, focusing on the phytochemical analysis and evaluation of biological activities of Pandanus species in Vietnam. The committee engaged in in-depth academic discussions, raising questions on research methodology, results, and potential applications.
From a “Familiar Pandan Leaf” to Scientific Research with Practical Value
The dissertation explores two familiar plant species that remain under-researched.“Pandanus amaryllifolius is actually the pandan leaf we commonly use in cooking—making sticky rice, cakes, and adding color and fragrance to food.”
Building on its dual role as both a common ingredient and a traditional medicinal material, the research aims to clarify the relationship between phytochemical composition and biological activities.“I chose a subject that has practical applicability but has not been widely studied in scientific research. This represents a very promising direction.”
The research team also developed extraction techniques and optimized processes for application purposes: “We aim to create formulations with potential applications in pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics.”
Scientifically and Practically Significant Findings
The dissertation achieved notable results, particularly in establishing correlations between phytochemical constituents and biological activities of Pandanus species.“This is not an easy research direction due to challenges in sample collection, model design, and analysis.”
Additionally, the study optimized extraction conditions to enhance applicability: “The goal is to determine optimal conditions for producing formulations through simple yet scalable processes.”
The findings not only contribute academically but also open up opportunities for utilizing domestic natural resources in pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries.
A Meaningful Journey with USTH
Sharing after the defense, PhD candidate Đỗ Hoàng Giang said: “I feel very happy and a little proud to have completed this long academic journey.”
His connection with USTH began over 10 years ago while supporting students in laboratory activities. “I first learned about USTH 12 years ago… and I can say I have a special connection with this university.”
After studying abroad, he chose USTH as a rigorous academic environment to continue his research career.
Evaluation Results and Congratulations
The defense was successfully conducted, marking a dedicated and persistent research journey. After the discussion, the committee held a closed meeting and voted unanimously in favor of the dissertation (7/7 votes).
The committee highly appreciated the systematic approach, scientific significance, and application potential of the research. On behalf of the committee, the Chairman congratulated the candidate on successfully defending his doctoral dissertation and acknowledged the valuable contributions of the study to the field of biomedical biotechnology.
The research is expected to continue developing, expanding its applications, and advancing toward more specialized studies.
Acknowledgements and Message to the Next Generation
Before concluding the ceremony, PhD candidate Đỗ Hoàng Giang expressed his sincere gratitude to the university, mentors, colleagues, and family: “USTH has provided me with an academic environment beyond my expectations.”
He also shared a message with students: “The challenges you are facing are actually a blessing, because you are studying in an international-standard environment that helps develop both your thinking and vision.”
👉 Learn more about academic and research programs at USTH to start your journey in life sciences: https://usth.edu.vn/khoa-khoa-hoc-su-song/
Other photos from the University-level doctoral dissertation defense ceremony 2026 of PhD candidate Do Hoang Giang:
