DR. NGUYEN HO THUY LINH: THE JOURNEY OF THE YOUNG FEMALE DOCTORAL SCHOLAR HONORED AT THE 2025 VIETNAM WOMEN'S AWARD

2025-10-05 16:33:34

For her outstanding contributions to research on materials applied in Biomedicine, Pharmacy, and Environmental Analysis, Dr. Nguyen Ho Thuy Linh, a lecturer in the Department of Pharmaceutical Inspection, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Health Sciences – Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (UHS – VNUHCM), was honored with the 2025 Vietnam Women’s Award on 2nd October. On this occasion, the VNU-HCM Website held a short interview with Dr. Thuy Linh to better understand her passionate and enthusiastic research journey.

Question: Dr. Nguyen Ho Thuy Linh, what circumstances led you to the path of research, particularly in the fields of biomedicine, pharmacy, and environmental analysis?

Answer: Since my student days, I have had a deep passion for the fundamental sciences, especially chemistry. This interest wasn’t just limited to acquiring knowledge; it always prompted me to ask: Why and how? When exposed to interdisciplinary applications, I realised that a chemical foundation serves as an excellent ‘language’ connecting Biomedicine, Pharmacy, and Environmental Analysis—from material design to applications in synthesizing active compounds, analysing environmental samples, or developing biological products.

For me, especially when working on novel materials, two factors drove my commitment: first, the joy of discovery and finding new aspects about the material’s nature; second, the aspiration for application, how this fundamental knowledge could improve human health, reduce environmental impact, or support the domestic pharmaceutical industry. The intersection between scientific significance and practical relevance urged me to commit to the research path.

Question: Looking back at your journey from student days until now, what was the pivotal moment that made you decide to commit to science?

Answer: The most critical milestone for me was participating in my very first scientific research project while still a student. At that time, I experienced the entire process firsthand: from problem formulation, experimental design, data collection, to analysis and report writing. The feeling of solving a scientific question myself, and then seeing my results contribute a small part to the general body of knowledge, was a powerful impression, totally different from the normal learning experience. That moment helped me realize that science is not simply memorizing facts but a continuous journey of discovery. Since then, I chose the research path not just as a career but as a mission: simultaneously learning, generating knowledge, and finding ways to convert that knowledge into applied value.


Question: Among over 20 research projects and 60 international publications, which work are you most satisfied with, and what are the specific applications of your patent?

Answer: I am particularly passionate about the research direction utilizing Metal-Organic Framework (MOF) materials for synthesizing organic compounds with biological activity. MOF is a class of porous, highly customizable materials. This opens up immense potential in catalysis, extraction, and chemical synthesis. Our work focuses on using MOFs as catalysts in synthesis reactions, helping to improve efficiency and selectivity while reducing harsh reaction condit

Regarding the patent, my collaborators and I were granted a Korean patent (10-2521051, dated 29th December, 2023) titled ‘A method for synthesizing aldehyde compound using metal-organic framework.’ Essentially, the invention proposes a new method using MOF as a catalyst to synthesise aldehyde compounds from hydrocarbons, a process that operates under simple, low-temperature, and low-cost conditions while achieving high efficiency and selectivity. A very practical point is that the MOF material can be reused multiple times without losing activity, which is highly significant for manufacturing scale.

In the pharmaceutical industry, aldehydes are important intermediate structural frameworks for synthesising many active ingredients; in cosmetics and fine chemicals, safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly processes are always prioritised. Therefore, the invention is not just an academic achievement but also opens a direction for local raw material production, helping to reduce reliance on imported materials, aiming towards the goal of developing the Domestic Pharmaceutical sector until 2030 and vision 2045.

Question: The path of research is arduous; how do you balance research, teaching, and personal life?

Answer: Truthfully, there are times when I feel exhausted: the pressure of projects, limited resources, requirements for international publications, along with teaching responsibilities and family obligations. However, the word ‘stop’ has never been my choice. What keeps me going is the belief that every difficulty is a learning opportunity; every result, no matter how small, can open up a new direction for application. The encouragement from family, colleagues, and students plays an incredibly important role; they remind me of the meaning of my work and replenish my energy.

Regarding balance, I focus on time management: clearly dividing work blocks for research and teaching, utilizing short periods to read documents or respond to students, and especially making time to rest and regenerate energy. The University of Health Sciences and VNU-HCM have provided significant support, ranging from policies promoting research to collaboration among different groups. I always remind myself that persistence and knowing how to utilise support are the keys to overcoming difficult stages.

Question: As a lecturer and young researcher, what advice do you have for young people who want to pursue science?

Answer: I often tell students that science is not dry if you find joy in solving a problem. Three things I value and recommend are patience, passion, and curiosity. Patience, because science is a long journey; passion, to endure failure and keep going; curiosity, to always ask questions and seek answers. Additionally, learn to share, even your failures, because that is the way to truly inspire the next generation.

Thank you, Dr. Nguyen Ho Thuy Linh, for taking the time to share!

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University of Health Sciences – Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City