Balik Scientist Dr. Julius Adam V. Lopez presents significant accomplishments during his engagement under the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) Balik Scientist Program (BSP).

Dr. Lopez and his team developed and published Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) modules and were able to conduct intensive trainings for next generation NMR users during his 1-year engagement as Balik Scientist. Participants during the trainings were students and staff from the University of San Agustin (USA), DOST Region VI staff, and Tuklas Lunas Centers (TLC) staff. He believes that with more people knowledgeable about the NMR, the country can further expand its R&D capacity not only in drug discovery but in other fields as well.

The NMR facility established in USA is the first NMR in the countryside giving much opportunity to develop competent researchers and scientists in the Visayas and Mindanao regions.

DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. and DOST-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development Executive Director Dr. Jaime C. Montoya were present during the exit presentation.

Dr. Montoya congratulates Dr. Lopez for his phenomenal accomplishments. “Nagpapasalamat talaga kami sa inyong lahat (mga Balik Scientists). Without you, the development process of the Philippines will take much longer”, Montoya says.

Sec. Solidum adds, “Balik Scientists play a crucial role in achieving the current administration’s eight-point economic agenda and ultimately making better lives for every Filipino. I believe that with their help we can transform the Philippines into a hub of innovation and creativity.”

DOST’s BSP encourages Filipino scientists, technologists, and experts to return to the country and share their expertise particularly to develop human capital in STI. RA 11035 or Balik Scientist Act was institutionalized in June 15, 2018. (NABFactuar/DOST VI-KMU)