Mukdarut Bangpan

Biography and Expertise of Mukdarut Bangpan

Professor Mukdarut Bangpan is a leading academic voice in the field of evidence-informed policy, with a profound focus on the social determinants of health and well-being. Her interdisciplinary research investigates the complex journey from knowledge production to policy implementation, particularly within the contexts of global development, gender equality, and public health. At the Social Science Research Unit at UCL, she champions research that is not only methodologically sound but also deeply attuned to the political and social realities of diverse communities.

Her work directly supports the 3rd WCTCIM’s Thematic Axis on ‘Contributions of TCIM to Global Public Health (Evidence-Based).’ Professor Bangpan’s expertise in evidence synthesis is crucial for evaluating and integrating Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine (TCIM) into mainstream healthcare. Consequently, her research provides the tools to build a robust evidence base for TCIM, aligning perfectly with the principles of the Gujarat Declaration, which call for scientific validation and sustainability.

Furthermore, through her founding of the Southeast Asia Evidence Policy Partnership (SEAEPP), Mukdarut Bangpan actively fosters the kind of South-South and North-South collaboration that is a cornerstone of the congress. This initiative exemplifies how building capacity for evidence use can empower nations to develop health policies that are effective, equitable, and reflective of local knowledge diversity—a central pillar of the WCTCIM motto.

Professional Career

Professor Mukdarut Bangpan’s career charts a deliberate and impactful trajectory from national public health research to global academic leadership. Her journey began at the forefront of policy research in her home country of Thailand and evolved into a distinguished academic career in the United Kingdom, where she has become a key figure in shaping the field of evidence-informed international development. This path reflects a deep-seated commitment to bridging the gap between research and real-world impact.

Each stage of her career has been marked by increasing responsibility and influence, culminating in her current leadership roles where she guides research strategy and mentors the next generation of scholars. Her progression demonstrates a consistent focus on enhancing how knowledge is used to address pressing social challenges.

• 2023 – Present: Professor of Evidence-Informed International Policy and Development and Director of the Social Science Research Unit, UCL, London, UK.
• 2017 – 2023: Associate Professor at the Social Science Research Unit, UCL, London, UK.
• 2014 – 2017: Senior Research Officer at the Social Science Research Unit, UCL, London, UK.
• 2007 – 2014: Research Officer at the EPPI-Centre, Institute of Education, University of London, UK.
• 2003 – 2006: Researcher at the International Health Policy Program, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand.

Academic Qualifications

The academic foundation of Professor Mukdarut Bangpan is distinguished by its international scope and methodological rigor. Her education, spanning both Thailand and the United Kingdom, provided her with a unique cross-cultural perspective and the advanced technical skills necessary to excel in the field of evidence synthesis and social science research. This dual-hemisphere training has been instrumental in shaping her nuanced approach to global development issues.

Her doctoral work at the prestigious University of London solidified her expertise in systematic review methodologies, which has become the bedrock of her career. This rigorous training enables her to critically appraise and synthesize complex bodies of international research, transforming disparate data into coherent, policy-relevant insights.

• 2008 – 2013: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), University of London, London, UK.
• 2006 – 2007: Master of Science (MSc), University of London, London, UK.
• 1999 – 2003: Bachelor of Science (BSc), Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.

Research and Publications

The research portfolio of Professor Mukdarut Bangpan is centered on the critical nexus of evidence, policy, and social equity. Her scholarly work consistently addresses how research can be better utilized to tackle deep-rooted inequalities, particularly those affecting the health, education, and well-being of vulnerable populations such as young women, girls, and communities in humanitarian crises. She is a leading expert in the methodology of systematic reviews and evidence and gap maps, tools she uses to chart existing knowledge and identify critical research needs.

Her publications often illuminate complex social issues and provide actionable guidance for policymakers. For instance, her 2023 evidence and gap map on mental health interventions for adolescents in humanitarian settings provides a vital resource for organizations working to support youth in crisis zones. Beyond that, her work on community engagement in sexual and reproductive health synthesizes global evidence on how to effectively involve communities in their own healthcare solutions. This focus on practical, evidence-based strategies is highly relevant for implementing the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025-2034.

Through her extensive body of work, Mukdarut Bangpan contributes a critical perspective on the political economy of knowledge—examining who produces research, whose knowledge is valued, and how it ultimately influences policy. This line of inquiry is fundamental to the 3rd WCTCIM’s pillar of ‘Knowledge Diversity,’ ensuring that the integration of TCIM is inclusive and respectful of diverse forms of evidence.

Board and Committee Activities

Professor Mukdarut Bangpan‘s expertise is sought by numerous international organizations, reflecting her standing as a leader in evidence synthesis and global policy. Her active involvement in advisory and editorial boards demonstrates a commitment to advancing the quality and integrity of research and its application worldwide. These roles allow her to shape global standards and foster international collaboration in the production and use of evidence.

Her advisory role for the World Health Organization (WHO) is particularly noteworthy, as she contributes to the global body responsible for international public health. Similarly, her work with the Campbell-China Network supports the growth of evidence synthesis in Asia. Her most significant contribution, however, is the creation and leadership of the Southeast Asia Evidence Policy Partnership (SEAEPP), an initiative dedicated to building a resilient bridge between researchers and policymakers across the region, fostering a culture of evidence-informed decision-making.

• Advisory Board Member: World Health Organization (WHO).
• Advisory Board Member: Campbell-China Network.
• Editorial Board Member: Systematic Reviews journal.
• Editorial Board Member: Global Social Challenges Journal.
• Founder and Director: Southeast Asia Evidence Policy Partnership (SEAEPP).

Connect with Professor Bangpan

To further explore the work of Professor Mukdarut Bangpan, including her extensive list of publications, research projects, and collaborations, please visit her official academic and professional profiles online. These resources offer a comprehensive overview of her contributions to evidence-informed international policy and development.

Official Profile at UCL (IRIS): View Academic Profile

LinkedIn Profile: Connect on LinkedIn

Southeast Asia Evidence Policy Partnership (SEAEPP): Learn about SEAEPP