WRITER: THE AU LIBRARY

Assumption University of Thailand (AU) ’s Hua Mak Campus was the stage for an exciting fusion of science, fitness, and innovation as students and faculty gathered for the much-anticipated lecture, "Maximizing Muscle Growth: The Benefits of Whey Protein for Exercise and Recovery" . The event brought together students eager to gain firsthand insight into one of the most prominent trends in health and wellness: whey protein.

Leading the discussion was none other than Danupon “Danny” Cilli, Founder and CEO of Fitwhey, Thailand’s number one sports and nutrition supplement company. With over 13 years of experience, 30+ brands, and a global reach spanning 22 countries, Fitwhey has revolutionized the sports nutrition market. This combination of expertise and passion made Mr. Cilli the ideal figure to educate students about the practical applications of biotechnology in the health and fitness industry.

The Power of Protein
From the moment Mr. Cilli stepped in front of the classroom, it was clear that this lecture would offer more than just textbook science. Blending enthusiasm with deep industry knowledge, he guided students through the biological mechanisms that make whey protein so effective in muscle recovery. "Whey protein isn’t just for athletes; it’s for anyone who wants to improve their health," Cilli explained. "It’s backed by science, and that’s where the future of fitness lies."

For the students, many of whom are considering careers in biotechnology, Mr. Cilli’s insights provided valuable knowledge about how scientific principles translate into real-world applications, from product development to the importance of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certification.

Industry Meets Academia
Fitwhey, as Mr. Cilli pointed out, has been at the forefront of Thailand’s functional food revolution, importing 100% whey protein from the United States and developing their own brand, VX - VITAXTRONG. With 500,000 customers and 860,000 fans on Facebook, Fitwhey has established itself as a leader in the industry, growing 10% annually and achieving $28 million in sales per year.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Patchanee Yasurin, Dean, Theophane Vernard School of Biotechnology, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration between industry and academia. “At the School of Biotechnology, we are committed to empowering our students with the knowledge and skills that meet the demands of an ever-evolving industry. Through innovation, hands-on learning, and collaboration with industry leaders like Fitwhey, we ensure that our graduates are ready to make meaningful contributions to society,” said Asst. Prof. Dr. Patchanee.

Beyond the Classroom
The lecture’s impact extended far beyond the technical details of whey protein. Students were eager to explore career paths in functional foods, sports nutrition, and biotechnology, with many engaging in lively discussions even after the session ended. "This lecture opened my eyes to the potential of biotechnology in fitness and health,"  Mr. River, one of the best and brightest students from the School of Biotechnology remarked. "It’s inspiring to see how science and entrepreneurship come together to make a real-world impact."

The event also provided an invaluable networking opportunity, with students connecting directly with Mr. Cilli and his team from Fitwhey. The success of the lecture has set a precedent for future collaborations between AU and leaders in the biotech industry, offering students a glimpse into how their education can be applied in innovative ways.

A Vision for the Future
The lecture wasn’t just a one-off event; it was a call to action for the next generation of scientists and entrepreneurs. With the global demand for sustainable health solutions on the rise, students are being prepared to lead the charge in industries like functional foods and sports nutrition. As Mr. Cilli’s lecture demonstrated, the fusion of science and industry is key to creating products that benefit society as a whole.

Looking Ahead
As AU continues to host events that bridge the gap between academia and industry, it is clear that the university is committed to fostering innovation. For the students in attendance, this event was more than just a lecture—it was an introduction to the future of biotechnology and the health sector.

The message is clear: With the right knowledge and partnerships, the next wave of biotech innovators is ready to make their mark.

More Information about Theophane Venard School of Biotechnology, please visit:

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