Register now to secure your place.
Early-bird rate available until Monday, 12 January 2026.
Overview
This workshop offers upper-secondary students the opportunity to carry out the synthesis of methyl salicylate, a compound of topical pharmaceutical relevance. Participants will be introduced to essential techniques used in university-level organic chemistry while working in an accessible, step-by-step learning environment. Each laboratory action is explained in terms of both its purpose and underlying chemical logic, enabling students to connect practical work with conceptual reasoning.
During the consolidation session, students will examine the reaction mechanism using arrow-pushing and explore the topical analgesic applications of methyl salicylate, including its relationship to aspirin. The workshop combines hands-on experimentation with minds-on interpretation to provide a structured and engaging introduction to organic chemistry.
Quick Access
Join us for "Synthesis of Methyl Salicylate: Hands-on and Minds-on", an engaging laboratory workshop that offers students first-hand experience in organic synthesis and mechanistic reasoning.
Key Information
Dates- Round 1: Thursday, 5 March 2026
- Round 2: Wednesday, 8 April 2026
- 08:30–17:15 (including lunch and breaks)
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University (Salaya)
- Lecture Room C405; Laboratories C410–411
- Upper-secondary students (Grade 10–12 / Year 11–13 or equivalent) with an interest in chemistry.
- 24 students per round (minimum of 10).
- 11,000 Baht
- 9,900 Baht (10% early-bird discount for registrations completed by Monday, 12 January 2026)
- Includes materials, handbook, registration pack, lunch, refreshments, and certificate.
- English
The workshop is led by Asst. Prof. Dr Sirirat Kumarn, supported by group demonstrators from the Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University.
About the Instructor
Asst. Prof. Dr Sirirat Kumarn received her BA and MSci degrees in Natural Sciences from the University of Cambridge (St Catharine’s College) and subsequently obtained her PhD in Chemistry under Professor Steven V. Ley CBE FRS FMedSci at the Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge.
Her research interests span organic synthesis, materials chemistry, and food chemistry, focusing on plant-derived bioactive compounds with applications in drug discovery, delivery systems, and sustainable technologies. She also leads hands-on outreach activities and mentors students in scientific communication and presentation skills.
Ms. Panutchanat Khamtonwong
Tel: 0 2441 9003–6 ext. 1242
