探索全球顶尖大学的研究室——研究领域与主要论文一览无余。
Professor Gi-Ra Yi's research lab specializes in the design, synthesis, and self-assembly of functional colloidal particles and their hierarchical architectures. The lab focuses on creating anisotropic and patchy colloids, shape-controlled microparticles, and responsive block copolymer-based nanostructures to enable bottom-up fabrication of advanced materials. Key research directions include colloidal self-assembly driven by geometry and interfacial engineering, scalable production of conductive nanowire networks, and the development of novel functional materials for optoelectronics and catalysis. The lab integrates synthetic chemistry, soft matter physics, and materials engineering to explore new structural motifs and functional properties at the micro- and nanoscale.
Professor Hyunchul Oh's research lab specializes in the development of advanced porous materials for sustainable energy and separation technologies. The lab focuses on designing highly selective nanoporous sorbents—particularly metal-organic frameworks and activated carbons—for applications in hydrogen isotope separation, gas storage (H₂, CH₄, CO₂), and carbon capture. Key research directions include kinetic-quantum sieving in flexible porous materials, isotope-responsive adsorption behavior, and the utilization of renewable and biomaterial-based precursors such as spider silk for high-surface-area carbon materials. The lab aims to replace energy-intensive industrial processes with efficient, low-cost adsorption-based technologies.
Professor Taisuke Tomita's research lab focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying Alzheimer's disease, with a central emphasis on the role of gamma-secretase and presenilin proteins in amyloid-beta peptide production. The lab investigates the structure-function relationships of presenilin, particularly the catalytic and regulatory domains critical for gamma-secretase activity, and explores how mutations in presenilin contribute to early-onset familial Alzheimer’s disease. They also study small molecule inhibitors—such as NSAIDs and DAPT—that selectively modulate gamma-secretase to reduce the generation of neurotoxic amyloid-beta 42, aiming to identify novel therapeutic targets. Their work combines biochemical, cell biological, and structural approaches to dissect the complex regulation of secretase enzymes in neurodegeneration.
Professor Wen Yin's research lab specializes in theoretical particle physics and cosmology, focusing on new physics beyond the Standard Model, particularly in addressing the muon g−2 anomaly, dark energy dynamics, and the role of scalar fields in resolving the cosmological constant problem. The lab investigates exotic cosmic phenomena such as axion-like particle (ALP) domain walls and their imprints on cosmic microwave background polarization, as well as the astrophysical implications of neutrino interactions with dark sectors. A central theme is the interplay between quantum field theory, early Universe cosmology, and observational signatures in high-energy astrophysics and precision experiments.
Professor Shu-Ping Hui's research lab specializes in lipid metabolism and signaling, with a focus on bioactive lipids such as lysophosphatidylethanolamine, plasmalogens, and sphingosine-1-phosphate in the context of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. The lab employs advanced lipidomics techniques, including LC-MS/MS and nanoelectrospray mass spectrometry, to investigate lipid droplet dynamics, oxidative stress, and lipid homeostasis in human and animal models. Key research directions include understanding the pathophysiological roles of specific lipid species in chronic kidney disease, heart failure, and neurodegenerative or metabolic disorders.
Professor Suyeon Cho's research lab specializes in the synthesis, characterization, and application of two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), with a focus on phase engineering, defect control, and heterophase boundary design to enhance catalytic and electronic properties. The lab investigates fundamental quantum phenomena such as charge density waves and 2D magnetism in TMDs, while also developing advanced electrocatalysts—particularly for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER)—by manipulating atomic-scale structures like anion vacancies and polymorphic phases. Their work bridges materials synthesis, nanoscale characterization, and device integration, enabling novel functionalities in energy conversion and 2D electronics.
Professor Junga Lee's research lab specializes in health and physical activity interventions, with a focus on leveraging technology and epidemiological research to improve health outcomes across diverse populations. The lab investigates the role of physical activity in preventing chronic diseases such as dementia, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer, while also exploring the integration of artificial intelligence in physical education and health assessment tools. A key emphasis is on developing and validating culturally adapted physical activity questionnaires, such as the K-GPAQ, to enhance measurement accuracy in Korean and other populations. The lab also examines the psychological and physiological benefits of exercise in cancer survivors, aiming to optimize rehabilitation and quality of life during treatment.
Professor Akio Kihara's research lab focuses on cellular lipid metabolism, particularly the biosynthesis, trafficking, and signaling functions of sphingolipids and very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs). The lab investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying membrane lipid asymmetry, vesicular trafficking, and the roles of specific enzymes and transporters—such as Vps34 complex components, HACD dehydratases, and ABC transporters—in these processes. A central theme is understanding how lipid metabolism influences cellular homeostasis, organelle function, and disease-related pathways.
Professor Eun Soo Park's research lab specializes in the design, synthesis, and characterization of advanced metallic materials, with a focus on high-entropy alloys, bulk metallic glasses, and complex concentrated alloys. The lab investigates the atomic-scale origins of mechanical properties—particularly strength, ductility, and glass-forming ability—by combining advanced experimental techniques such as X-ray absorption spectroscopy with first-principles theoretical calculations. Key research directions include understanding local lattice distortions, phase stability, and the role of electronic structure and atomic size mismatch in determining material performance under extreme conditions. The lab also explores the development of refractory high-entropy superalloys and bulk metallic glasses with enhanced mechanical properties for high-temperature and structural applications.
Professor Chan Yeong Heo's research lab specializes in biomaterials and tissue engineering, focusing on the development of biocompatible and bioactive materials for regenerative medicine and clinical applications. Key research directions include the design of bioabsorbable implants for orthopedic and maxillofacial reconstruction, innovative polymeric fillers for soft tissue augmentation (e.g., breast reconstruction), and advanced skin rejuvenation technologies using tailored polymers and growth factors. The lab also investigates surface engineering strategies—such as photopolymerization of functional polymers on implant surfaces—to modulate immune responses and improve implant integration.
Professor Woo-Hee Kim's research lab specializes in advanced thin film deposition techniques, particularly atomic layer deposition (ALD) and its applications in nanoelectronics and 2D materials. The lab focuses on developing area-selective ALD (AS-ALD) for precise, bottom-up nanofabrication, enabling selective growth on complex 3D nanostructures and patterned substrates. Key research directions include the design of novel ALD precursors, surface chemistry control for selective nucleation, and the integration of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) into self-powered, high-performance gas sensors. The lab also explores functional coatings for semiconductor devices, including conformal metal films and hydrophobic interfacial layers for advanced patterning.
Professor Seung Soo Oh's research lab specializes in the development of advanced nucleic acid-based biosensors and targeted delivery systems, with a focus on aptamer technology and microfluidic platforms. The lab pioneers innovative strategies for generating high-affinity aptamers and self-reporting systems that enable label-free, fluorescence-based detection of biomolecules with high sensitivity and specificity. By integrating principles from synthetic biology, nanotechnology, and microfluidics, the lab designs smart molecular tools for diagnostics and therapeutics, including aptamer-polymer hybrids for controlled drug delivery. Their work emphasizes rapid, efficient, and reproducible selection methods, such as VDC-MSELEX and microfluidic phage display, to accelerate the discovery of functional biomolecules.
Professor Joo Hyun Park's research lab specializes in the thermodynamic and structural characterization of non-metallic inclusions and slags in steelmaking processes, with a focus on improving the quality and performance of advanced steels. The lab investigates the formation mechanisms, crystallization behavior, and compositional control of spinel (MgO·Al₂O₃) and other oxide inclusions, as well as the structural evolution of silicate and aluminate slags using advanced spectroscopic techniques such as FT-IR and micro-Raman spectroscopy. Their work bridges fundamental materials science with industrial applications, particularly in stainless steel and high-performance steel production.
Professor Yoshiaki Nakamura's research lab specializes in the design, fabrication, and characterization of advanced nanomaterials for energy conversion and electronic applications. The lab focuses on quantum-confined semiconductor nanostructures—particularly germanium and SiGe-based quantum dots and superlattices—engineered to optimize thermoelectric and optoelectronic properties. Key research directions include strain engineering, interface control, and nanostructuring to simultaneously suppress thermal conductivity while maintaining high electrical conductivity. The lab employs advanced techniques such as scanning tunneling spectroscopy and molecular beam epitaxy to achieve atomic-scale precision in material synthesis and property tuning.
Professor Shizuo Akira's research lab focuses on innate immunity, particularly the molecular mechanisms underlying Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling and the downstream activation of transcription factors such as NF-κB and IRF3. The lab investigates key adaptor proteins like MyD88 and TRIF, which mediate distinct signaling pathways leading to inflammatory and antiviral responses. Their work has significantly advanced understanding of how pattern recognition receptors detect pathogens and initiate immune responses. The lab also explores the pathophysiological roles of cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF in inflammation, autoimmunity, and cancer.
Professor Daisuke Sano's research lab specializes in environmental virology and water safety, focusing on the detection, inactivation, and risk assessment of pathogenic viruses in water and wastewater systems. The lab pioneers innovative methods for viral monitoring—such as wastewater-based epidemiology and oxidative damage quantification—while advancing disinfection strategies to ensure microbial safety in reclaimed water. Their work bridges environmental chemistry, virology, and public health, with strong emphasis on sustainable water reuse and early warning systems for infectious disease outbreaks.
Professor Dong Young Lee's research lab specializes in aging-related brain disorders, with a focus on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. The lab investigates the neuroimaging and neurocognitive correlates of brain atrophy, white matter integrity, and metabolic dysfunction across the cognitive impairment spectrum. Using advanced MRI and PET imaging techniques, the lab explores regional patterns of brain atrophy, hypometabolism, and structural connectivity disruptions, particularly in aging and dementia populations. The research also emphasizes cross-cultural and education-sensitive assessment tools for geriatric cognitive evaluation.
Professor Mee Kum Kim's research lab focuses on the intersection of ocular immunology, regenerative medicine, and the gut-immune axis in autoimmune and inflammatory eye diseases. The lab investigates the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells and their secretome in corneal injury and dry eye disease, while also exploring how gut microbiota dysbiosis contributes to systemic autoimmunity, particularly in Sjögren’s syndrome. Recent work emphasizes the role of microbial modulation in improving clinical outcomes through immune regulation, especially via antigen-presenting pathways. The lab also explores innovative approaches in corneal regeneration, including xenotransplantation and bioengineered corneas.
Professor Seung Hyun's research lab focuses on human-centered smart environments and sustainable building design, integrating technology and well-being. The lab investigates user perception and emotional responses in immersive virtual environments, smart home systems for elderly care, and the psychological impacts of indoor environmental factors such as color and vegetation density. Key research directions include optimizing building performance through early-stage energy system design, enhancing user adoption of health monitoring technologies, and exploring the restorative effects of nature in indoor spaces. The lab combines behavioral, physiological, and engineering approaches to develop intelligent, sustainable, and human-friendly environments.
Professor Beom Kyung Kim's research lab specializes in hepatology, with a primary focus on noninvasive prediction of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. The lab develops and validates clinical scoring systems—such as FIB-4, ASPRI, and SNACOR—to improve risk stratification and reduce reliance on liver biopsy. Their work also emphasizes optimizing prognostic models like mREACH-B and BCLC for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), integrating virological and fibrotic burden markers to guide personalized treatment in the era of antiviral therapy.
