Abstract
The Thai healthcare system is characterized by management complexity and the need
to adapt to evolving health determinants. Driving the system toward its goals requires robust
evidence-based data from Health Policy and Systems Research (HPSR). Consequently, there is
an urgent need to enhance the capacity of new researchers—both in quantity and quality—to
produce impactful research that informs policy and practical implementation. This project was
established to develop systematic models, mechanisms, and monitoring processes for capacity
building, while pilot-testing these frameworks to provide sustainable recommendations for
future researcher development.
The project followed four key stages: First, selecting 13 new researchers from 9 HSRIfunded projects (2025–2026) based on their professional experience and alignment with national
strategies; second, establishing a Mentoring Mechanism by pairing researchers with experts for
close guidance; third, providing academic preparation through nine workshop modules covering
research skills and policy communication; and the last, conducting monitoring and evaluation to
establish a researcher database and community.
The 2025 implementation demonstrated participant satisfaction and successful
knowledge application, particularly in developing professional Policy Briefs. The mentoring
system proved to be a crucial mechanism, helping researchers overcome obstacles in research
methodology and project management. However, future phases should refine selection
mechanisms by prioritizing high-potential candidates and "theme-based" research topics and
establishing a clear network of new researchers based on the I-N-N-E (Individual, Node, Network,
Environment) framework is essential for long-term sustainability. Furthermore, the Health
Systems Research Institute (HSRI) should consider institutionalizing this project as a permanent
program to elevate the national standard for health systems researcher development.
