Assoc. Prof. Le Van Thang is the Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Science and Technology. He received his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from CEA and Grenoble INP, France, and has built a distinguished career spanning materials research, higher education leadership, and science policy. Prior to his current appointment, he served as Rector of the International University, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, and held several academic leadership positions at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology. Through his work in research management, technology transfer, and international collaboration, he has played a key role in strengthening Vietnam’s innovation ecosystem and advancing science- and technology-driven economic development.