MFU Center of Excellence in Fungal Research Hosts International Workshop: "Mushrooms: From Wild to Table"

The Center of Excellence in Fungal Research (CEFR) at Mae Fah Luang University (MFU) hosted the international training workshop titled "Mushrooms: From Wild to Table" from 18 to 24 July 2026. This event is one of the flagship activities under the broader " FMFC International Training Programme" (Innovative Farmers, Traditional Medicines, Healthy Foods, and Cosmetics).

During an official welcoming ceremony on 22 July at the Mushroom Cultivation Laboratory for Research and Learning Building, Professor Dr. Sujitra Wongkasemjit, Vice President of Mae Fah Luang University, emphasised the importance of cross-border collaboration in unlocking the potential of Northern Thailand's natural resources.

Led by Adjunct Professor Dr. Kevin David Hyde, Director of CEFRม and Dr. Naritsada Thongklang, Programme Leader, the main objective of this training was to disseminate knowledge and build a network for exchanging insights on biodiversity studies and the international utilisation of mushrooms. The hands-on programme brought together 10 researchers from five countries, including China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

This training aligns with the university's policy to support international cooperation, promote learning amid diversity in various dimensions, and raise awareness of the importance of biological resources and the necessity of biodiversity conservation for long-term sustainability. This is achieved through a comprehensive set of learning activities, including:
- Wild mushroom exploration and sample collection: Participants conducted hands-on fieldwork in natural settings to study wild mushroom species, with Chiang Rai province serving as a study site known for its rich and diverse mushroom populations.
- Species identification and classification: Participants practiced identifying and classifying wild mushroom species using morphological methods and molecular biology techniques.
- Mushroom cultivation and application: Participants studied theoretical concepts alongside hands-on practice in mushroom cultivation, laying the groundwork for practical applications that can generate supplemental income or be developed into sustainable agricultural models.

The Center of Excellence in Fungal Research at MFU was established to become a leading research centre in Thailand, Asia and the world. It focuses on major research areas, including the biodiversity, taxonomy, and utilisation of fungi. With its outstanding achievements in the exploration of fungi diversity and publications in reputed international journals, CEFR has received widespread international recognition in mycology studies.