Research labs at Korea's QS Top 10 universities including SNU, KAIST, and Yonsei.
Professor Sungjae Kim's research lab specializes in electrokinetic phenomena at the micro- and nanoscale, with a focus on ion concentration polarization (ICP) in nanofluidic systems. The lab investigates fundamental transport mechanisms such as surface conduction, electro-convection, and diffusioosmosis, particularly in perm-selective membranes and polymeric nanoporous materials. Their work bridges fundamental electrokinetics with practical applications in biomolecule concentration, sensing, and lab-on-a-chip devices, often employing microfabricated sensors and direct measurements of electric and flow fields. The lab also explores the biological implications of ion transport, including its role in intestinal immune regulation.
Professor Ho Jun Chin's research lab specializes in nephrology and clinical epidemiology, with a focus on the pathophysiology of chronic kidney disease, hypertension, and autoimmune kidney disorders. The lab investigates the impact of renal function on health-related quality of life, the role of inflammatory and signaling pathways (such as JAK2/STAT5) in hematopoietic and renal diseases, and the influence of metabolic factors—like sodium intake and bilirubin—on cardiovascular and renal outcomes. Additionally, the lab explores autoantibodies, such as ANCA, in lupus nephritis, contributing to improved understanding of disease mechanisms and patient prognosis.
Professor Hee-nam Kim's research lab focuses on host-microbe interactions, particularly the role of the gut microbiome in immune-mediated diseases such as atopic dermatitis and its implications in systemic conditions like COVID-19. The lab investigates microbial genome evolution, especially in pathogenic Burkholderia species, to understand the genetic and genomic basis of virulence and host adaptation. Using multi-omics approaches—including 16S rRNA sequencing, metagenomics, and metabolomics—the lab explores microbial community dynamics, metabolic functions, and host-microbial crosstalk in health and disease.
Professor Yongwon Seo's research lab specializes in gas hydrate science and engineering, focusing on the thermodynamic and kinetic behavior of clathrate and semiclathrate hydrates for sustainable energy and environmental applications. The lab investigates hydrate-based processes for carbon dioxide sequestration, methane recovery, pre-combustion CO2 capture, and separation of potent greenhouse gases like SF6. Key research directions include phase equilibrium measurements, guest molecule encapsulation, and the stabilizing effects of additives such as quaternary ammonium salts in hydrate systems under high-pressure conditions.
Professor Sejoong Kim's research lab specializes in advancing nephrology and drug safety through innovative microfluidic technologies, particularly kidney-on-a-chip systems. The lab focuses on modeling human renal physiology and pathophysiology to improve the prediction of drug-induced nephrotoxicity and to bridge the gap between preclinical animal studies and human responses. Key research directions include developing physiologically relevant in vitro models using primary kidney epithelial cells under dynamic flow conditions, evaluating the biocompatibility of peritoneal dialysis solutions, and investigating genetic factors in membranous nephropathy. The lab integrates engineering principles with clinical nephrology to create more accurate, human-relevant disease models for drug development and personalized medicine.
Professor Sung-Ae Jeong's research lab focuses on translational biomedical research, particularly in the areas of metabolic syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and regenerative medicine. The lab investigates natural compounds like cinchonine for their anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory effects, explores the pathophysiology of gastrointestinal disorders such as GERD and colitis, and evaluates the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells—especially tonsil-derived stem cells—in treating inflammatory and fibrotic diseases. The lab integrates preclinical disease models with molecular and histological analyses to uncover mechanisms and develop novel therapeutic strategies.
Professor Jae Young Choi's research lab focuses on advancing clinical diagnostics and therapeutic strategies for ear and respiratory diseases using cutting-edge technologies such as deep learning and molecular immunology. The lab investigates the pathophysiology of inner ear disorders like Meniere’s disease and cystic fibrosis, with an emphasis on identifying autoimmune mechanisms and biomarkers. It also explores host-microbe interactions in the nasal mucosa, particularly how commensal bacteria modulate antiviral immunity. Additionally, the lab examines the safety and clinical implications of medical imaging in patients with cochlear implants.
Professor Soyun Cho's research lab focuses on dermatological conditions with an emphasis on the clinical and pathological characterization of benign and pigmented skin disorders, including vitiligo, striae distensae, and steatocystoma multiplex. The lab investigates the genetic, immunological, and environmental factors influencing these conditions, while also exploring the efficacy of nutritional supplements—such as beta-carotene and aloe vera—on skin aging and photoprotection. A recurring theme is the integration of clinical observations with histopathological and molecular analyses to better understand disease mechanisms and therapeutic interventions.
Professor Byung-Jo Kim's research lab specializes in clinical and translational neuromuscular imaging and electrodiagnostics, focusing on advancing diagnostic accuracy and understanding of neurological disorders through advanced medical imaging and electrophysiological techniques. The lab investigates conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), fibromyalgia, radiculopathy, and peripheral nerve disorders using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), ultrasonography, and electromyography. A key emphasis is placed on identifying reliable imaging and electrophysiological biomarkers to assess disease progression and improve patient outcomes.
Professor Jangyeon Kwon's research lab specializes in advanced 2D materials and oxide semiconductors for next-generation electronic and optoelectronic devices. The lab focuses on developing high-performance thin film transistors, tactile sensors, and self-powered microfluidic systems, with an emphasis on material integration, device reliability, and novel device architectures. Key research directions include the electrical and stability behavior of Hf–In–Zn–O (HIZO) and other oxide semiconductors under stress conditions, the design of bio-inspired tactile sensors with high sensitivity, and the development of energy-autonomous sensing systems using triboelectric and resistive transduction. The lab also explores fundamental mechanisms in nanoscale materials, such as agglomeration dynamics in metal films and carrier trapping in dielectrics.
Professor Ki-Jun Yoon's research lab focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying Notch signaling in development and neurodegeneration, with a particular emphasis on the role of E3 ubiquitin ligases such as Mib1 in regulating intercellular communication. The lab investigates how ubiquitin ligases control Notch pathway activation through ligand endocytosis, exploring their functions in embryonic development, neural stem cell differentiation, and adult brain function. Additionally, the lab examines nucleocytoplasmic transport defects in neurodegenerative diseases, identifying endogenous protective pathways that counteract pathological protein aggregates. Their work bridges developmental biology, neurobiology, and molecular pathology using genetic, cell biological, and biochemical approaches in mouse models and human cell systems.
Professor Byungchan Han's research lab specializes in the design and development of advanced functional materials for sustainable energy applications, with a strong focus on electrocatalysts for renewable energy conversion and storage. The lab explores novel materials such as defective metal oxides, layered double hydroxides, perovskites, and doped copper catalysts to enhance catalytic activity and stability in reactions like the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), and electrochemical CO2 reduction. Using a combination of advanced characterization techniques and first-principles theoretical calculations—including DFT and operando spectroscopy—the lab uncovers atomic-level mechanisms governing surface reactivity and catalytic performance. Their work aims to bridge the gap between material synthesis and practical energy technologies by engineering defects, interfaces, and electronic structures at the nanoscale.
Professor Jongsoon Kim's research lab specializes in the development of advanced functional materials for next-generation rechargeable batteries, with a strong focus on sodium-ion and zinc-ion batteries. The lab investigates novel cathode materials such as olivine-type phosphates, vanadium oxides, and polyanionic compounds, emphasizing high energy and power density, structural stability, and efficient ion diffusion. Through a combination of first-principles calculations, advanced characterization, and innovative material engineering, the lab aims to overcome key challenges like volume changes, sluggish kinetics, and voltage hysteresis in conversion and conversion-type electrode materials.
Professor Park Sunhee's research lab specializes in epidemiological and biostatistical methodologies with a focus on population health, particularly in chronic inflammatory diseases and adolescent health. The lab investigates histological disease activity in ulcerative colitis, emphasizing its predictive value for clinical outcomes, and applies advanced multilevel modeling and survival analysis techniques to improve the rigor and validity of health data interpretation. Research also extends to public health surveillance systems, especially infectious disease monitoring in Korea, and explores modifiable health risks such as sleep duration and obesity in youth populations. The lab integrates statistical innovation with real-world public health applications to inform clinical practice and policy.
Professor Kang Kyung Ho's research lab specializes in translational biomedical research and health technology innovation, with a focus on prostaglandin biology, cancer immunology, and minimally invasive surgical techniques. The lab investigates the role of bioactive lipid mediators—such as 8-epi-PGF2α and PGE2—in vascular and immune regulation, particularly in the context of cancer immune evasion and tumor microenvironment modulation. Additionally, the lab explores the clinical applications and outcomes of robotic surgery, especially in thyroid and neck dissection procedures. The integration of molecular mechanisms with clinical surgical outcomes defines the lab’s interdisciplinary approach.
Professor Sae-Ho Park's research lab focuses on the immunology of innate-like T cells, particularly natural killer T (NKT) cells and their role in bridging innate and adaptive immunity. The lab investigates the development, selection, and function of CD1d-restricted T cells, with a special emphasis on invariant NKT (iNKT) cells and their T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire. Using genetically modified mouse models, the lab explores how these cells recognize self and foreign lipid antigens, regulate immune responses, and contribute to tumor immunity and inflammatory diseases. The research also extends to intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes and the role of non-classical MHC molecules in T cell selection and function.
Professor Ji Hyun Jang's research lab specializes in the design and fabrication of advanced nanomaterials for sustainable energy and environmental applications. The lab focuses on developing novel nanostructured materials—such as NiO, mesoporous graphene, covalent organic frameworks (COFs), and 3D graphene networks—for high-performance energy storage devices, solar-driven water purification, and rechargeable aqueous batteries. Key research directions include enhancing charge and mass transport in electrode materials, suppressing dendrite growth and corrosion in metal-air and zinc-ion batteries, and improving solar-to-vapor conversion efficiency through rational heterostructure engineering. The lab emphasizes scalable, low-cost synthesis methods and functional materials with tailored porosity, conductivity, and surface chemistry for real-world applications.
Professor Cheolmin Ahn's research lab specializes in critical care medicine and pulmonary diseases, with a focus on interventional pulmonology, acute respiratory failure, and rare forms of pulmonary hypertension such as chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). The lab investigates pathophysiological mechanisms of lung injury, including elastase-mediated edema and inflammatory responses, and evaluates novel therapeutic interventions like synthetic elastase inhibitors. It also explores diagnostic strategies using medical imaging, such as chest CT for early detection of conditions like Birt-Hogg-Dubé (BHD) syndrome, and examines outcomes in patients with cardiogenic shock requiring advanced life support such as ECMO or CRRT.
Professor Minjae Choi's research lab specializes in the development of colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) for advanced optoelectronic and energy applications. The lab focuses on innovative surface engineering strategies to control doping, solubility, and electronic properties in CQDs, enabling high-performance, solution-processed devices such as solar cells and batteries. Key research directions include the design of stable, doped CQD inks for large-area film fabrication, the optimization of heterojunction architectures for efficient carrier transport, and the application of quantum dot materials in sustainable energy technologies. The lab's work bridges fundamental materials science with practical device integration, emphasizing scalable and low-cost fabrication methods.
Professor Min-Jae Choi's research lab specializes in the design, synthesis, and application of colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) for next-generation optoelectronic and energy conversion devices. The lab focuses on advanced surface engineering strategies to control doping type and level, enhance colloidal stability, and enable solution-processed heterostructures—particularly in lead chalcogenide and III-V CQDs—while maintaining high electronic quality. Key research directions include the development of high-performance CQD solar cells, sodium-ion batteries, and infrared photodetectors through innovative ink formulation, interfacial passivation, and heterostructure engineering. The lab also explores fundamental mechanisms governing charge transport and band bending in quantum dot solids to enable scalable, low-cost optoelectronic technologies.
