Acting Sub Lt. Kritsana Sutcha, a Master’s student in Geological Technology at Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Technology, has secured a research grant to present his findings at the 6th International Symposium on Asian Dinosaurs in Japan 2025. The symposium is being held from September 25-30, 2025, at the Faculty of Dinosaur Science, Fukui University, Japan.
On September 27, 2025, Sutcha delivered an oral presentation titled “The Oldest known dinosaur evidence of Southeast Asia: The Late Triassic theropod and sauropod tracks from Thailand.”
His preliminary research indicates the discovery of fossilized footprints belonging to theropod and sauropod dinosaurs, alongside other reptile tracks. These trackways were found on mudstone and sandstone layers, exhibiting ripple marks within the Huai Hin Lat Formation. The geological dating places these findings in the Late Triassic period, approximately 210–220 million years ago, in the Na Pho Song sedimentary basin, Nam Nao District, Phetchabun Province.
Sutcha is currently conducting further research to identify the specific species of animals that made the footprints. His study also includes detailed lithological, sedimentological, and stratigraphic analysis of the fossil-bearing site. His advisors are Dr. Pitaksit Disbanjong and co-advisor Dr. Surawetch Sutheethorn from Mahasarakham University.
Participation in this international conference has provided Sutcha with valuable opportunities to meet researchers, exchange experiences, and build research networks. He also visited the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum, which further enhanced his knowledge and research potential.
The Asia Dinosaur Association, established in 2013, supports paleontological and geological research related to Asian dinosaurs. It aims to disseminate knowledge, promote dinosaur education, raise public awareness, and support students, young researchers, and the development of dinosaur-related culture. The International Symposium on Asian Dinosaurs (ISAD) is held biennially. Thailand is slated to host the 7th ISAD in 2027, organized by the Khon Kaen Geopark Association. This upcoming event is expected to promote learning in paleontology and geology, raise awareness about biodiversity, ancient environments, climate change, and geoparks, while also boosting quality tourism in Thailand.
The Geological Technology program at Khon Kaen University’s Faculty of Technology offers both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in geology and geological technology. The program emphasizes practical training, hands-on experience, and collaboration with companies and organizations in the geological field through its curriculum, cooperative education courses, special projects, and internships. It encourages students to gain experience, participate in academic conferences, publish their work, and build national and international research networks, aligning with the university’s mission to serve the community and society.
