Research labs at Korea's QS Top 10 universities including SNU, KAIST, and Yonsei.
Professor Jong-Yoon Won's research lab specializes in interventional radiology and medical robotics, focusing on minimizing radiation exposure for both patients and clinicians through the development of advanced robotic systems for vascular interventions. The lab investigates image-guided interventions such as transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) for hepatocellular carcinoma, with an emphasis on reducing complications like hepatic arterial damage. A key research direction involves the integration of deep learning and automation in vascular intervention robots to enhance precision and reduce operator workload. The lab also explores safe and effective percutaneous procedures, such as fluoroscopy-guided gastrostomy, particularly for neurodegenerative disease patients.
Professor Byeongkwan Min's research lab specializes in advanced manufacturing processes and intelligent machining systems, focusing on precision machining of hard and brittle materials using electrochemical and electro-discharge-based methods. The lab develops innovative micro-machining techniques, such as electrochemical discharge machining with microtextured tools, to achieve high-aspect-ratio features. It also emphasizes the integration of real-time machine tool simulation with virtual manufacturing environments to enhance process accuracy and system performance. Additionally, the lab pioneers intelligent tool design by combining structural optimization with active control systems, particularly through piezoelectric actuation for vibration suppression and error compensation in precision boring.
Professor Min-Soo Jo's research lab specializes in surgical oncology and cardiovascular medicine, with a focus on improving outcomes in colorectal cancer and anticoagulation therapy for atrial fibrillation. The lab investigates advanced surgical techniques such as robotic and laparoscopic total mesorectal excision, emphasizing long-term oncologic and functional outcomes. It also conducts large-scale observational studies on antithrombotic therapy, particularly non–vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs), in East Asian populations, aiming to optimize dosing and safety. Additionally, the lab explores prognostic biomarkers in rectal cancer, such as extramural vascular invasion on MRI, and investigates post-transplantation complications like post-transplantation diabetes mellitus.
Professor Jae-Hyun Lee's research lab specializes in the development and application of two-dimensional (2D) materials and advanced nanomaterials for next-generation electronic, photonic, and energy conversion devices. The lab focuses on wafer-scale synthesis of high-quality 2D materials such as single-crystal graphene, transition metal dichalcogenides (e.g., WS₂), and amorphous carbon allotropes, with an emphasis on controlling crystal structure, phase, and morphology. Key research directions include defect engineering for enhanced ion sensing, plasma-assisted synthesis of metastable phases, and electrocatalytic conversion of small molecules like CH₄ and H₂O using tailored 2D and oxide catalysts. The lab also pioneers novel device architectures such as proton-sensitive field-effect transistors and solar-powered electrochemical systems for sustainable chemical synthesis.
Professor Jinoh Na's research lab specializes in cardiovascular epidemiology and metabolic cardiology, focusing on the interplay between visceral adiposity, metabolic syndrome, and structural heart disease. Key research directions include the role of epicardial adipose tissue in atrial fibrillation and left atrial remodeling, the impact of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease on cardiovascular structure and function, and the prognostic significance of sarcopenia in patients with coronary artery disease. The lab employs advanced imaging techniques such as multislice computed tomography and echocardiography to investigate pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical outcomes in Asian populations.
Professor Kyu Sup Hahn's research lab focuses on political communication, media effects, and public opinion, with a particular emphasis on how media consumption patterns shape political attitudes and civic engagement. The lab investigates ideological selectivity in media use, the role of issue importance in information exposure, and the impact of media system structures—such as public service versus market-based models—on political awareness. It also explores cross-national attitudes toward immigration, examining how economic and cultural factors influence public perceptions of immigrants across diverse democratic contexts.
Professor Joohong Ahnn's research lab focuses on molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying cellular physiology and development in model organisms, particularly *C. elegans* and *E. coli*. The lab investigates conserved signaling pathways, including Ras-like GTPases, calcineurin phosphatase, and redox systems such as thioredoxin, with an emphasis on their roles in aging, autophagy, and cellular homeostasis. Additional research explores enzymes critical for metabolism and development, such as inorganic pyrophosphatase, and the therapeutic mechanisms of botulinum toxins in pain regulation. The lab integrates molecular genetics, cell biology, and biochemistry to uncover fundamental biological processes with implications for human health and disease.
Professor Dongpyo Jang's research lab specializes in the development of advanced neurochemical sensing technologies and virtual reality-based therapeutic interventions. The lab focuses on real-time, in vivo monitoring of neurotransmitters like dopamine using innovative electrochemical techniques such as fast-scan cyclic voltammetry and novel methods like CBM-FSCV and FCSWV. Additionally, the lab pioneers implantable, bioresorbable neurochemical analyzers based on 2D materials for wireless, long-term brain monitoring. A parallel research direction involves designing low-cost, high-fidelity virtual reality environments for the clinical treatment of anxiety disorders, including acrophobia and agoraphobia, with objective physiological validation.
Professor Inah Kim's research lab focuses on occupational health and epidemiology, with a strong emphasis on the impact of long working hours and occupational stress on mental and physical health outcomes. The lab investigates the epidemiological characteristics of work-related disorders, including depression, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative conditions such as ALS, particularly within the Korean population. Using national health and labor data, the lab examines the interplay between socioeconomic status, work environment, and disease risk, aiming to inform public health policy and workplace safety regulations.
Professor Yun-Hwan Kim's research lab focuses on clinical and translational studies in internal medicine, with a strong emphasis on hematology, hepatology, and women's health. The lab investigates innovative treatments for anemia and hepatocellular carcinoma, particularly using intravenous iron therapy and Yttrium-90 radioembolization in patients with portal vein thrombosis. It also explores the impact of metabolic syndrome on female sexual function and the benefits of Taekwondo training in managing hypertension and cardiovascular risk factors in elderly women. The lab integrates clinical research with emerging technologies, such as machine learning, for agricultural pest prediction, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach to health and data-driven solutions.
Professor Sukhoon Pyo's research lab specializes in sustainable high-performance concrete, focusing on the development of eco-friendly construction materials through the integration of industrial by-products such as steelmaking slag, fly ash, and granulated blast-furnace slag. The lab investigates the mechanical, rheological, and environmental performance of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) and pervious concrete, with an emphasis on reducing cement content and CO₂ emissions. Key research directions include the use of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), innovative mix designs, and advanced characterization techniques to enhance durability, strength, and sustainability in concrete applications.
Professor Eun-Hee Shin's research lab focuses on host-pathogen interactions, particularly in parasitic and infectious diseases, with a strong emphasis on innate immunity and host defense mechanisms. The lab investigates the role of immune cells such as eosinophils and macrophages in controlling helminth infections, while also exploring host-directed therapeutic strategies using microbial proteins and antioxidants. A key research direction involves identifying parasite-derived molecules—such as Toxoplasma gondii GRA16 and TgPLP—that modulate host immune responses to enhance anti-tumor or anti-parasitic immunity. The lab integrates molecular parasitology, immunology, and translational approaches to develop novel therapeutic and diagnostic strategies for infectious and inflammatory diseases.
Professor Kim, Jae Geun's research lab specializes in the design and synthesis of advanced nanostructured materials for energy applications, with a primary focus on lithium-ion batteries and sustainable energy conversion. The lab employs electrospinning and controlled nano-architecture engineering to develop novel anode materials—such as core-shell Si@TiO₂-x/C, MnCo₂O₄, Li₄Ti₅O₁₂, and TiO₂-based systems—aimed at enhancing electrochemical performance, conductivity, and thermal stability. A key research direction involves tailoring morphology, doping, and heterostructure integration to improve lithium-ion diffusion, rate capability, and cycle life. Additionally, the lab explores the environmental impact of plant litter decomposition on soil nutrient cycling, linking materials science with ecological sustainability.
Professor Suk-Hee Park's research lab focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying cellular signaling pathways, particularly in the context of cancer and immune regulation. The lab investigates the roles of post-translational modifications—especially ubiquitination and deubiquitination—in regulating key signaling molecules such as TGF-β receptors, BMP6, inflammasome components, and the scaffolding protein p62. A central theme is the identification and functional characterization of deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) that modulate signal transduction, offering potential therapeutic targets for cancer and inflammatory diseases. The lab integrates molecular biology, cell signaling, and epigenetic regulation to understand disease pathogenesis and identify novel intervention strategies.
Professor Jung Hwan Kim's research lab specializes in the development of advanced functional materials for sustainable energy and optoelectronic applications. The lab focuses on designing low-toxicity, high-performance semiconductors—such as copper-based halide perovskites and amorphous oxide semiconductors—for next-generation optoelectronic devices and thin-film transistors. A key research direction involves engineering nanomaterials from natural resources, including cellulose-based nanomaterials, to create smart, green battery separators and multifunctional membranes. The lab also explores the biological mechanisms of natural compounds for cancer chemoprevention, integrating materials science with biomedical applications.
Professor Dae Sik Kim's research lab specializes in the development of advanced polymer electrolyte membranes and functional materials for clean energy applications, particularly in fuel cells and energy conversion systems. The lab focuses on designing and synthesizing novel ion-exchange polymers—such as guanidinium- and sulfonated poly(arylene ether sulfone)s—with enhanced chemical stability, proton conductivity, and durability under harsh operating conditions. Key research directions include the molecular engineering of polymer architectures for alkaline and proton-exchange membrane fuel cells, hybrid organic-inorganic membranes with tailored ion-conducting properties, and the optimization of combustion processes in advanced internal combustion engines. The lab combines synthetic chemistry, materials characterization, and system-level performance evaluation to address critical challenges in sustainable energy technologies.
Professor Jae-Hoon Ko's research lab focuses on viral immunology, particularly host immune responses to emerging infectious diseases such as SARS-CoV-2 and human adenovirus (HAdV). The lab investigates humoral and cellular immunity, including neutralizing antibody production and T cell responses against SARS-CoV-2 variants, with an emphasis on breakthrough infections and vaccine-induced immunity. Additionally, the lab explores clinical diagnostics and epidemiological surveillance of viral outbreaks, including rapid serological testing and pathogen strain monitoring in outbreak settings.
Professor Ho-Sang Jeong's research lab specializes in the development of advanced nanomaterials and biosensors for biomedical and environmental applications. The lab focuses on creating smart, label-free sensing platforms using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), plasmonic nanostructures, and biocompatible materials for early disease diagnosis and real-time monitoring. Key research directions include targeted cancer therapy using nanocarriers, wearable and implantable sensors for physiological monitoring, and rapid on-site detection of environmental contaminants such as microplastics and pesticides. The integration of biomolecules, nanomaterials, and functional substrates enables highly sensitive, selective, and clinically translatable diagnostic solutions.
Professor Won Sik Ham's research lab specializes in urological oncology and genitourinary diseases, with a strong focus on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying aggressive cancers such as testicular, prostate, and clear cell renal cell carcinomas. The lab investigates biomarkers and genetic signatures associated with poor clinical outcomes in early-stage tumors, aiming to develop predictive tools for personalized treatment decisions. They also explore novel therapeutic interventions, including natural compounds like red ginseng extract, for conditions such as erectile dysfunction. Their work integrates clinical data, molecular profiling, and translational research to improve patient outcomes in genitourinary malignancies.
Professor Sung-Jig Lim's research lab focuses on the pathophysiology of kidney diseases, particularly diabetic nephropathy and acute kidney injury, with an emphasis on inflammatory and oxidative stress mechanisms. The lab investigates molecular targets such as NLRP3 inflammasome, angiotensin peptides, and bioactive compounds like piperine and sildenafil in modulating renal inflammation, fibrosis, and oxidative damage. A key research direction involves exploring stem cell therapy, especially mesenchymal stem cells, for chronic kidney disease using preclinical models. The lab integrates in vitro cell culture studies with in vivo animal models to identify novel therapeutic strategies for kidney diseases.
