INOMAR Selected as Ho Chi Minh City’s First International‑Standard Excellent Research Center

We are proud to announce that the Center for Innovative Materials and Architectures (INOMAR), under Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCM), has been officially selected by the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee as one of the first institutions to be developed into an International‑Standard Excellent Research Center.

This distinction, announced on June 17, 2025, affirms the city's confidence in INOMAR’s scientific leadership and its long-term commitment to innovation-driven research. It marks a major milestone for INOMAR and the broader Vietnamese research community, aligning with Ho Chi Minh City’s vision to become a regional hub for advanced science and technology.

Ms. Trần Thị Diệu Thúy, Vice Chairwoman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, presented the decision on developing an international‑standard research center.

Mr. Lâm Đình Thắng, Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Science and Technology, and Ms. Trần Thị Diệu Thúy, Vice Chairwoman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, presented the official decision to Professor Dr. Phan Bách Thắng, Director of the INOMAR Center.

About INOMAR

INOMAR was established in 2011 through a collaborative initiative between VNU-HCM and the research group of Prof. Omar M. Yaghi (University of California, Berkeley), under the original name Center for Molecular and NanoArchitecture (MANAR). The center was later renamed INOMAR in 2016 to reflect its expanded focus on advanced functional materials and systems.

As a multidisciplinary research center, INOMAR integrates:

• Molecular design and advanced synthesis

• Multiscale characterization

• First-principles modeling and simulation

Its mission is to conduct innovative, fundamental research at international standards and to foster high-quality postgraduate training through a model of global mentoring and scientific integrity.

From the Director

“This recognition affirms INOMAR’s commitment to excellence in both research and education. With the city’s support, we are prepared to take the next leap—transforming world-class materials science into real-world impact.”
— Prof. Dr. Phan Bach Thang, Director of INOMAR

We are deeply honored by this designation and remain committed to advancing materials research that serves the goals of sustainable development, innovation, and global scientific contribution.

Let us continue building a future where Vietnamese science thrives on the global stage.

INOMAR faculty, researchers, and staff pose for a commemorative photo with distinguished guests following the decision‑granting ceremony.