NTTU Faculty of Medical Laboratory Technology Student Won 2nd place at “Microbiology NOVA 2026”

A group of students from the Faculty of Medical Laboratory Technology at Nguyen Tat Thanh University (NTTU) has excelled by winning the Second Prize at the “Microbiology NOVA 2026” academic competition. Their project focused on a green extraction process for astaxanthin combined with nano-lipid technology. This achievement was certified by the American Society for Microbiology (ASM), affirming the scientific research capabilities, innovative mindset, and courage of NTTU students on prestigious academic platforms.

An academic arena promoting research and innovation

“Microbiology NOVA 2026” is an annual academic competition designed to create an environment where students passionate about microbiology, biotechnology, and life sciences can present research ideas, develop technologies, and propose practical applications. The competition serves as a forum for students to network, learn, and connect with experts, scientists, and businesses in the life sciences sector.

The competition was co-organized by the Young Academic Competence Development Community (YACD COM), under the Center for Biotechnology and Science (CBBioTec) and the Faculty of Biology – Biotechnology at the University of Science, VNU-HCM. It was sponsored by Dong Nam Technology Corporation and BCE Company, with professional support from the Ho Chi Minh City Society for Biology and Biotechnology, the American Society for Microbiology (ASM), and the Asian Federation of Biotechnology in Vietnam (AFOB-VN).

Attracting 60 research proposals, the competition involved several rigorous selection rounds. Participating teams were evaluated on their research proposals, scientific posters, project presentations, and defense of their topics before a panel of experts. The jury consisted of scientists, lecturers, and professionals from universities, research institutes, and industry associations, evaluating entries based on scientific rigor, creativity, and practical applicability.

Surpassing many competitors, the student team from the Faculty of Medical Laboratory Technology at Nguyen Tat Thanh University became one of the six most outstanding teams to reach the final round. Their presence in the Top 6 is a testament to their serious investment in research, professional competence, presentation skills, critical thinking, and teamwork.

The student team from the Faculty of Medical Laboratory Technology defending their project before the jury

Researching astaxanthin extraction for sustainable cosmeceuticals

Representing Nguyen Tat Thanh University, the team comprising students Huynh Cong Bao, Le Huu The, and Tran Hieu Phuong, under the guidance of Dr. Lam Tri Duc, participated with the project: “Extraction of Astaxanthin from yeast using an integrated green process and application of structured nano-lipid systems in the development of sustainable topical products.”

The research focuses on extracting astaxanthin from natural sources using environmentally friendly methods, combined with nano-lipid technology to enhance the stability and effectiveness of the active ingredient in topical applications. This approach not only utilizes eco-friendly biological materials but also opens up prospects for developing natural-based cosmeceuticals, aligning with global trends in sustainable development.

Throughout the competition, the group invested significant effort into literature review, experimental design, scientific poster completion, and refining their presentation and defense skills. In the final round, the team successfully clarified the novelty, feasibility, and application efficiency of their study, ultimately earning the Second Prize.

This success is a well-deserved recognition of the students’ continuous efforts and reflects the support provided by the Faculty of Medical Laboratory Technology and Nguyen Tat Thanh University in fostering scientific research among students.

The research project was highly rated by the expert panel for its practical application and sustainable development orientation

From laboratory research to academic success, the journey of these students is proof of their proactive research spirit and innovation. The results at “Microbiology NOVA 2026” serve as a source of pride and motivation for the NTTU student community, encouraging them to pursue research projects that solve practical problems in healthcare and sustainable development.

Authors: Dr. Lam Tri Duc – Thanh Huong

Photo: Organizing Committee