Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan is widely recognized as a distinguished researcher and academician who has made significant contributions to the field of nanotechnology, with particular emphasis on its applications in fisheries and aquaculture. He is currently the Center Director and Principal Investigator for Research on Environment and Nanotechnology Laboratories and the Center for Microplastics Research and Innovation. Additionally, he is the Director for the International Affairs and Linkages Office at Mindanao State University at Naawan.
His academic journey began with a BS in Chemistry from Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology, followed by an MS in Chemistry from the University of the Philippines, Diliman. He furthered his studies with a Ph.D. in Chemistry from National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan, completing the prestigious Taiwan International Graduate Program (TIGP). His academic achievements are underscored by an impressive h-index of 12, indicative of his scholarly impact.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Capangpangan has demonstrated exceptional research prowess, publishing over 80 papers in esteemed journals and contributing chapters to three books published by Springer, focusing on nanotechnology and the circular economy. He has presented his research findings at numerous local and international conferences. Furthermore, he serves as Associate Editor for the Annals of Studies in Science and Humanities and the Journal of Ecosystem Science and Eco-Governance and as a reviewer for various ISI- and Scopus-indexed journals. He is also a regular member of the National Research Council of the Philippines, the Philippine Association of Research Managers, Inc., the Mindanao Consortium on Advanced Functional Materials and Nanotechnology, the International Association of Advanced Materials, and a Lifetime Member of the Kapisanang Kimika ng Pilipinas.
His pioneering work has garnered numerous accolades, including the Outstanding Faculty Researcher Award (2023), the Photon Loyalty Award from the Samahang Pisika ng Visayas at Mindanao, and recognition as a DOST-PCIEERD EPIC Awardee and National Awardee of the Philippine National Health Research System (PNHRS). He has also been honored with the Presidential Award for Excellence in Research, the Best Employee Award, and the Presidential Award for Excellence in Resource Generation.
Dr. Capangpangan’s visionary leadership extends to the establishment of the Research on Environment and Nanotechnology Laboratories (REY Labs) and the Center for Microplastic Research and Innovation. At these centers, he spearheads groundbreaking research initiatives focused on microplastics in the Philippines, exploring their environmental impacts and innovative solutions. His research portfolio encompasses nanomaterials, computational nanotechnology, sensor development, and polymer science, addressing critical challenges in fisheries and aquaculture. Notable projects include developing nanomaterial-based sensors for detecting contaminants in aquaculture systems and creating sustainable nanotechnologies to reduce microplastic pollution in marine environments.
Dr. Capangpangan’s research on microplastics has been pivotal in understanding their distribution, sources, and impacts on marine ecosystems in the Philippines. His work involves interdisciplinary collaboration with ecologists, chemists, and engineers to develop innovative mitigation strategies. One of his significant projects includes the use of advanced nanomaterials to degrade microplastics in aquatic environments, thereby reducing their harmful effects on marine life.
As a testament to his international stature, Dr. Capangpangan has successfully led projects funded by agencies such as DOST, CHED, and DA. His collaborations transcend borders, with appointments as a JSPS HOPE Fellow and visiting researcher at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel. These roles enable him to drive scientific advancements and foster international partnerships, cementing his reputation as a leading scientist in chemical research worldwide.
Dr. Capangpangan’s dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and addressing environmental challenges through nanotechnology underscores his commitment to excellence and innovation in academia. His visionary efforts are not only contributing to the academic community but also paving the way for practical solutions to environmental issues. By integrating cutting-edge nanotechnology with ecological conservation, Dr. Capangpangan is inspiring a new generation of researchers and setting a transformative path toward a sustainable future. His ongoing efforts promise to have a profound impact on both local and global scales, shaping the future of scientific research and environmental sustainability.