As one of the outstanding scholars of the VNU350 Program initiated by the Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCM), Dr. Trương Trung Kiên has chosen to continue his journey of scientific contribution and education at the University of Science – a place where he is committed to training the next generation of Vietnamese engineers. Holding a Ph.D. from Texas State University (USA), along with multiple patents and extensive international teaching and research experience, Dr. Kiên brings with him a strong aspiration to build a modern academic environment - one where the connection between research and real-world application is prioritized.
With the support of scientists like Dr. Kiên, the University of Science is steadily advancing toward its goal of becoming a leading center for technology and innovation in the region.
A Distinguished Young Scientist
Dr. Trương Trung Kiên earned his Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Texas State University. He previously served as Head of Engineering at Fulbright University Vietnam, where he led the development of the Bachelor of Human-Centered Engineering - a pioneering program integrating technical knowledge with humanistic thinking and innovation, opening a new direction for engineering education in Vietnam.
Throughout his research career, Dr. Kiên has authored five U.S.-granted patents related to core technologies for 4G and 5G networks. He has also published widely in prestigious international journals and conferences and has received several "Best Paper" awards. In 2015, he was honored by the Ministry of Science and Technology as one of Vietnam’s outstanding young scientists under the age of 35.
"My greatest aspiration is to contribute to the development of the country, and most importantly, to nurture the next generation of talented engineers and scholars in Vietnam," shared Dr. Trương Trung Kiên.
For Dr. Kiên, these achievements are only stepping stones toward his greater ambition of contributing meaningfully to his homeland. He shares candidly: "Despite having studied and worked in the United States for many years, I have always been passionate about advancing academic development in Vietnam. My greatest aspiration is to contribute to the country’s progress and, in particular, to nurture the next generation of talented engineers and scholars."
This passion has driven Dr. Kiên to join the VNU350 Program of VNU-HCM - a program that, in his view, possesses a strategic vision and was launched at a pivotal moment, as Vietnam continues to make bold strides in science and technology.
Dr. Kiên highly values the comprehensive approach of VNU350, which not only attracts talent through competitive incentives but also fosters an autonomous and dynamic environment where researchers can make a real impact. He considers the program a "launchpad" for building strong research teams capable of solving major national challenges and competing internationally. For Dr. Kiên, this is the catalyst that will help VNU-HCM assert itself as a regional leader in academia and technology.
A Concrete Plan for Teaching and Research
Currently, Dr. Trương Trung Kiên serves as a lecturer in Semiconductor and Integrated Circuit Technology at the University of Science. As a member of VNU350, he brings with him a concrete action plan that encompasses both teaching and research.
Dr. Trương Trung Kiên is engaging in a conversation with students during an event introducing STEM-related fields.
In education, Dr. Kiên aims to promote modern teaching methodologies that emphasize experiential learning and project-based learning, with strong integration of real-world industry challenges. His approach focuses on cultivating design thinking and systems thinking.
"I hope that my courses will go beyond delivering knowledge - they should inspire innovation, encourage collaboration, and provide international exchange opportunities so that Vietnamese students can integrate early and confidently into the global environment."
In research, Dr. Kiên plans to establish a strong research group focusing on two main pillars: high-performance solutions for 6G networks based on the Open Radio Access Network (ORAN) standard, and edge AI-enabled IoT systems. His ultimate goal is to bridge the gap between academic research and industry application, ensuring that scientific advancements are translated into practical benefits for society.
Dr. Kiên’s vision aligns with Vietnam’s long-term national development strategies. He emphasizes his desire to contribute to the "Vietnam Semiconductor Industry Development Strategy to 2030, with a Vision to 2050," while also supporting VNU-HCM’s ambition to become a leading regional technology hub.
His five-year plan includes several key initiatives: developing advanced 6G and ORAN solutions, creating energy-efficient IoT systems, building a robust semiconductor ecosystem through university – industry - international collaboration, and training high-quality human resources for the future.
A workshop on Design Thinking and Systems Thinking for participants of the Interdisciplinary Design Bootcamp (IDB), organized as part of the experiential program promoting an interdisciplinary approach.