This article looks at the organizational culture of the National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), a research institute in Thailand. The purpose is to find out to what extent the culture affects how well the institute realizes its stated objectives, which include becoming an engine for the knowledge-driven economy of Thailand and developing the country's infrastructure in biotechnological research. The main methodology used is a close reading analysis of the texts published by BIOTEC itself and a series of interviews of researchers and analysts who have a close working relationship with the institute. It is found that the organizational culture of BIOTEC is rather typical of a Thai bureaucratic organization, in that the emphasis seems to be more on maintaining the general status quo rather than relentlessly pursuing its vision. The article suggests that BIOTEC should instead act more as a catalyst for equality and justice through its alignment with villagers in rural areas, helping them to realize their own goals.
