Trailblazing Autistic Graduate from Thailand Makes History at Queen’s earning a PhD in Medicine

Piangfan Naksukpaiboon graduated from Queen’s University with a PhD in Medicine, specialising in colorectal cancer.

In a momentous achievement that challenges societal expectations and stereotypes, Dr Piangfan Naksukpaiboon, an autistic student from Thailand, yesterday (Thursday 26 June) graduated with a PhD in Medicine, specialising in colorectal cancer.

Originally from Thailand, Dr Naksukpaiboon’s journey to academic success has been far from conventional. Growing up autistic in a society where disabled and neurodivergent students are often marginalised in the education system, Piangfan faced systemic barriers from the outset.

“In Thailand, disabled and neurodivergent people are not very well integrated or supported in the education system,” she explains.

“I benefited from opportunities to study abroad. Without that, my story would have been very different.”

Those opportunities took her across the world: from Norway and the USA for undergraduate studies, to postgraduate degrees in Thailand and the UK. In 2018, she began her doctoral studies at Queen’s University Belfast—an academic journey she calls a “turning point” in her life.

Piangfan Naksukpaiboon graduated with a PhD in Medicine, specialising in colorectal cancer. She is pictured with her wife, Rhiannon Grant.

Despite personal challenges—including illness, bullying, and the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic—Piangfan persisted with determination and resilience.

“I’ve been stereotyped not just because of my autism, but also because of my race and sexuality,” she says.

“But I’ve always believed that with the right support and encouragement, anything is possible.”

Dr Naksukpaiboon is also believed to be the first autistic Thai student to receive EU funding to study in the UK. During her PhD, she faced a major health challenge but found new strength through archery—a sport she took up during recovery and quickly excelled in.

Since 2021, she has won over 50 medals, including at the Archery GB National Disability Championship. She was also awarded The Das Clark Trophy by The Worshipful Company of Fletcher’s Trust for her potential as a disabled novice archer—an honour she holds dear.

“Work-life balance is one of the biggest challenges for an atypical student,” Piangfan reflects, noting the value of sport and community support in her academic life.

In addition to her sporting achievements, Piangfan was named to the Dimensions Autism and Learning Disability Leaders’ List 2024 and received the Queen’s Students’ Union Individual Achievement Award earlier this year.

Her work now extends far beyond academia. As a vocal advocate for disability rights, Piangfan is working to reshape public perceptions of what autistic and disabled individuals can accomplish. Her inspirational life story is set to reach even wider audiences—the Thai Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is producing a documentary about her life and advocacy.

“I want the film to show how my life might have been different if I had been supported from the beginning,” she says.

“Too many people were shocked that someone like me could be in higher education. That has to change.

“Anything is possible with support. Every child deserves to be seen, heard, and believed in – regardless of ability.”

Looking ahead, Dr Naksukpaiboon will begin a postdoctoral position at the University of Birmingham, where she will be reunited with her wife, whom she met during her Master’s degree.

Her journey is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when determination meets opportunity—and why inclusive, supportive education systems are essential for every student to thrive.