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Microplastics floating in water, caught by floating drones

Microplastics floating in water, caught by floating drones - Hydrophilic tooth technology develops microplastic recovery technology using floating drones - Expected to be expanded to aquaculture farms, domestic water treatment, etc In recent years, microplastics have garnered significant attention due to their detection in tap and bottled water, as well as in rivers, lakes, and oceans. Conventional filtering technologies for water treatment have difficulty effectively filtering out microplastics of various sizes and shapes and are prone to clogging. Additionally, recovering small particles requires extremely fine filter meshes, which increases pressure and drastically reduces filter efficiency. Furthermore, they are not effective in open spaces such as lakes, rivers, or oceans, where microplastic pollution is increasing. Dr. Seong Jin Kim and Myoung-Woon Moon of the Center for Extreme Materials Research at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) have developed a new level of microplastic removal technology, offering a promising solution to this growing problem. They have developed a floating drone equipped with hydrophilic tooth structures that leverage surface tension to skim microplastics. The core of the team's approach is the hydrophilic ratchet structure. This design forms a water bridge that forms between the teeth due to its affinity for water, which maximizes the surface tension of the water to adhere the microplastics to the teeth. This approach enables the removal of microplastics ranging in size from 1 micrometer (μm) to 4 millimeters, addressing the challenges traditional filtering technologies face with size and shape variability. It also ensures reliable operation without the risk of clogging. The technology has achieved over 80% recovery efficiency for various types of microplastics, including expanded polystyrene, polypropylene, and polyethylene. In particular, the hydrophilic ratchet structure of the floating drone can be used to remove microplastics in real-time in large bodies of water such as oceans, lakes, and rivers. The drone can move autonomously and purify water quality like a household robot vacuum cleaner, showing its versatility beyond the limitations of existing fixed systems "This technology can be applied not only to floating drones, but also to stationary systems such as water treatment filters in aquaculture farms," said Dr. Moon. "It can also be expanded into a home water treatment filter device that individuals can use in their daily lives." ### KIST was established in 1966 as the first government-funded research institute in Korea. KIST now strives to solve national and social challenges and secure growth engines through leading and innovative research. For more information, please visit KIST’s website at https://eng.kist.re.kr/ This research was supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister Yoo Sang-im) under the KIST Institutional Program and the Korea International Maritime Police Service Project (KIMST-20210584). The results of this research were published in the latest issue of the international journal "Advanced science" (IF 14.3, JCR field 8.2%). [Figure 1] [Figure 2] [Figure 3]

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Developing wastewater treatment units that treat right where it's generated

Developing wastewater treatment units that treat right where it's generated - Continuous flow rapidly breaks down and mineralizes organic matter in water, ready for immediate discharge - Unit produces its own hydrogen peroxide in large quantities and uses it as an oxidant right on site Conventional wastewater treatment involves the centralized collection of wastewater from sources through pipes to large-scale treatment plants, where it is treated in bulk. However, this is not feasible in small, decentralized areas such as rural areas. Simple treatment units installed at small non-point sources of pollution mainly focus on disinfection and turbidity improvement, and do not properly decompose the recalcitrant organic matter in wastewater. In addition, even if industrial wastewater is treated in-house, the treatment efficiency is low, and highly toxic wastewater often needs to be re-transported to a final treatment plant. Dr. Sang Hoon Kim, Extreme Materials Research Center, Dr. Jong Min Kim, Materials Architecturing Research Center, and Dr. Sang Soo Han, Computation Science Research Center, all from the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), have developed an electrochemical device that can treat sewage and wastewater from pollution sites to the level of discharge. In particular, it can rapidly and completely decompose recalcitrant materials into inorganic substances and discharge them on its own. While previous research methods mainly focused on the development of electrode materials for the generation of hydrogen peroxide, a powerful electrochemical oxidant, this study introduced a flow cell method to generate a large amount of hydrogen peroxide while circulating wastewater in the device, mixing it well, and oxidizing and decomposing recalcitrant organic matter in situ to rapidly mineralize it. This is a structure that can completely degrade organic matter much more efficiently than conventional treatment tanks. Conventional oxidation treatments for harmful organics in water often require multiple steps before the organics are completely degraded, and the intermediate products are often still toxic. When organic matter in water is completely decomposed and mineralized, it becomes non-toxic and can be discharged, and the indicator of this is called total organic carbon (TOC). Since last year, after 48 years, the Ministry of Environment has added total organic carbon to the wastewater discharge standards to impose stricter wastewater treatment standards. The small-scale electrochemical device developed by the KIST research team is a technology that can effectively treat sewage and wastewater directly on-site, which is difficult to treat centrally, and can effectively reduce the total organic carbon in a short time. In fact, the researchers demonstrated excellent complete decomposition performance, reducing the total organic carbon of 50pm bisphenol A by 93% in 2 hours. "The developed device is composed of a continuous and repetitive flow method, which shows higher complete decomposition efficiency than the existing method, and a patent is pending for the device and processing method. We are also planning to transfer the technology to commercialize it." ### KIST was established in 1966 as the first government-funded research institute in Korea. KIST now strives to solve national and social challenges and secure growth engines through leading and innovative research. For more information, please visit KIST’s website at https://eng.kist.re.kr/ This research was supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister Yoo Sang-im) under the KIST Institutional Program, Usu Shinjin (RS-2023-00209940), Nanomaterial Technology Development Project (NRF-2022M3H4A7046278), and the Ministry of Environment (Minister Han Hwa-jin) Environmental Technology Development Project (2021002800005). The research was published in the latest issue of the international journal Applied Catalysis B:Environment and Energy (IF: 20.2 JCR, top 0.6%) [Figure 1] [Figure 2] [Figure 3]

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Developing highly efficient recovery materials for precious 'rare earth metals' and improving resource circulation...

Developing highly efficient recovery materials for precious 'rare earth metals' and improving resource circulation for digital infrastructure - Recovery of rare earth metals from waste permanent magnets to reduce foreign dependence - Development of fibrous adsorption materials with improved performance, productivity, economy, and applicability, and improved industrial stability Korea imports 95% of its core minerals such as lithium, nickel, and rare earths. Rare earths, in particular, are characterized by chemical, electrical, magnetic, and luminescent properties that can be achieved by adding only a small amount, and their use has recently increased significantly as core materials in the eco-friendly automobile and renewable energy industries. China, a major producer of rare metals, is controlling the supply through its strategy of weaponizing resources, putting great pressure on the domestic industry. Dr. Jae-Woo Choi and his team at the Center for Water Cycle Research at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) recently announced the development of a fiber-based recovery material that can recover rare earth metals such as neodymium (Nd) and dysprosium (Dy) with high efficiency. The new material is expected to contribute to solving rare earth supply and industrial stability issues by recovering and recycling rare earth metals (neodymium-iron-boron (Nd-Fe-B)) that are mainly used in third-generation permanent magnets, which are essential components in the electric vehicle, hybrid vehicle drive motors, wind power, robotics, and aerospace industries. KIST researchers have developed a nanostructured composite fiber material composed of metal-organic structures and polymer acryl fiber composite fibers to efficiently recover rare earth metals. The adsorptive material is based on acrylic fibers, which are already widely used in Korea, and is economical and productive. The researchers expect that the developed material will be of great industrial use as it easily adsorbs rare earths from waste liquids while facilitating their recovery. The developed fiber material showed adsorption capacities of 468.60 mg/g for neodymium and 435.13 mg/g for dysprosium, the highest in the world. This is significantly higher than conventional adsorption materials and can be applied to simple reactors, which can significantly improve the energy efficiency of the recovery process. The team expects the material to be able to effectively recover rare earths not only from waste permanent magnets, but also from a variety of industrial wastewaters containing rare earth metals, such as mine drainage. In particular, its easy surface modification makes it applicable to a wide range of industrial wastewaters, and it is expected to become a technological alternative for securing rare metal resources. "The high-efficiency rare earth metal recovery material developed in this study is a technology that can replace existing granular adsorption materials, showing excellent results in terms of performance, productivity, economy, and applicability, which will revitalize the digital infrastructure waste mineral extraction ecosystem, and has great potential for industrial application through resource recycling," said Dr. Jae-Woo Choi of KIST. "In the future, the technology can be expanded to selectively recover various useful resources, including rare earths, from industrial wastewater, contributing to carbon neutrality and rare earth-related upstream and downstream industries," said Dr. Youngkyun Jung. ### KIST was established in 1966 as the first government-funded research institute in Korea. KIST now strives to solve national and social challenges and secure growth engines through leading and innovative research. For more information, please visit KIST’s website at https://eng.kist.re.kr/ This research was supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister Yoo Sang-im) under the KIST Major Project, Leading Materials Innovation Project (2020M3H4A3106366) and Sejong Science Fellowship (RS-2023-00209565). The research results were published in the latest issue of the international journal Advanced Fiber Materials. [Figure 1] [Figure 2] [Figure 3]

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Developing new polymeric nanomaterials to detect harmful substances in extreme environments

Developing new polymeric nanomaterials to detect harmful substances in extreme environments - KIST-Yale team develops new nanomaterials based on mixed ion-electron conductors - Eco-friendly, durable sensors for high temperature and humidity environments are expected to have a wide range of applications Polymers have gained prominence in applications such as wearable electronics due to their flexibility and lightweight, but their low electrical conductivity has been a major drawback. While various research efforts have been made to improve conductivity, there are still technical limitations, such as the need to use harmful solvents and performance degradation in extreme environments. The Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) announced that it has developed a method for synthesizing polymers based on ion-electron mixed conductors through collaborative research with Dr. Jang Ji-soo of KIST's Center for Electronic Materials Research and Professor Mingjiang Zhong of Yale University in the United States. The research overcomes the limitations of existing polymeric conductors and is attracting attention as an innovative technology that can contribute to the development of next-generation high-performance chemical sensors. To solve this problem, the researchers introduced ionic pendant groups into the polymer structure to synthesize conjugated polymers that can easily dissolve in eco-friendly solvents rather than toxic solvents. In particular, the polymers exhibit high gas sensing performance in eco-friendly processes and can maintain stable performance in high temperature and humidity environments. This technological advance opens up the possibility of applications in wearable devices, portable electronics, and other electronic devices that can operate reliably in extreme environments. At the center of this research is the development of an ionization-based conjugated polymer that is soluble in an environmentally friendly solvent (2-methylanisole). While conventional conductive polymers typically require toxic solvents to dissolve, the new polymer significantly improves electrical conductivity through the binding of ionic species and electronic charge carriers. By introducing anions (TFSI-) and cations (IM+) into the polymer to increase the density and mobility of the charge carriers, the team maximized conductivity and stability. The n-type based conductive polymer developed by the researchers, N-PBTBDTT, showed a very high sensitivity in detecting harmful gases such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2). The sensitivity for NO2 detection was as high as 189%, and it showed high detection ability even at a very low concentration of 2 ppb. This performance exceeds that of conventional sensor technologies, and the polymer was also highly durable in environments with high humidity of 80% and high temperatures of up to 200°C. This enables stable gas detection in a variety of extreme environments, and is expected to be widely applied to wearable devices and industrial sensors. "The sensors developed in this research go beyond simple chemical sensors and can bring about revolutionary changes in various applications," said Dr. Jang Ji-soo of KIST. "In particular, it can be used as a life-saving material for those who work in extreme environments, such as firefighters who need to detect harmful gases at fire scenes and soldiers who are exposed to chemical weapons in wartime," said Prof. Junwoo Lee and Dr. Juncheol Shin, first authors. ### KIST was established in 1966 as the first government-funded research institute in Korea. KIST now strives to solve national and social challenges and secure growth engines through leading and innovative research. For more information, please visit KIST’s website at https://eng.kist.re.kr/ This research was supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister Yoo Sang-im) as Institutional Program of KIST, and the results were published* in Advanced Functional Materials (IF: 18.5, within the top 5% of the JCR field), an authoritative journal in the field of energy materials. [Figure 1] [Figure 2] [Figure 3]

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Photon qubits challenge AI, enabling more accurate quantum computing without error-correction techniques

Photon qubits challenge AI, enabling more accurate quantum computing without error-correction techniques - Implementing molecular structure-level quantum simulations using a single photon qudit - performing more accurate quantum chemistry calculations with fewer resources than conventional overseas studies The just-announced Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to University of Washington Professor David Baker, Google DeepMind CEO Hershavis, and Principal Investigator John Jumper for their work using AI to predict the structure of proteins, enabling the discovery of new drugs and new materials. In an era where AI and data are driving the scientific revolution, quantum computing technology is emerging as another game-changer in the development of new drugs and new materials. Dr. Hyang-Tag Lim's research team at the Center for Quantum Technology at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) has implemented a quantum computing algorithm that can estimate interatomic bond distances and ground state energies with chemical accuracy using fewer resources than conventional methods, and has succeeded in performing accurate calculations without the need for additional quantum error mitigation techniques. Quantum computers have the disadvantage of rapidly increasing errors as the computational space grows at the current level. To overcome this, the Variational Quantum Eigensolver (VQE) method, which combines the advantages of classical and quantum computers, has emerged. VQE is a hybrid algorithm designed to use a Quantum Processing Unit (QPU) and a Classical Processing Unit (CPU) together to perform faster computations. Global research teams, including IBM and Google, are investigating it in a variety of quantum systems, including superconducting and trapped-ion system. However, qubit-based VQE is currently only implemented up to 2 qubits in photonic systems and 12 qubits in superconducting systems, and is challenged by error issues that make it difficult to scale when more qubits and complex computations are required. Instead of qubits, the team utilized a higher-dimensional form of quantum information called a qudit. A qudit is a quantum unit that can have multiple states, including 0, 1, and 2, in addition to the 0 and 1 that a traditional qubit can represent, which is advantageous for complex quantum computations. In this study, a qudit was implemented by the orbital angular momentum state of a single-photon, and dimensional expansion was possible by adjusting the phase of a photon through holographic images. This allowed for high-dimensional calculations without complex quantum gates, reducing errors. The team used the method to perform quantum chemistry calculations with VQE to estimate the bond length between hydrogen molecules in four dimensions and lithium hydride (LiH) molecules in 16 dimensions, the first time 16-dimensional calculations have been realized in photonic systems. While conventional VQEs from IBM, Google, and others are required error mitigation techniques for chemical accuracy, the KIST team's VQE achieved chemical accuracy without any error mitigation techniques. This demonstrates how high accuracy can be achieved with fewer resources, showing the potential for widespread application in industries where molecular properties are important. It is also expected to be useful in solving complex problems such as climate modeling. "By securing qudit-based quantum computing technology that can achieve chemical accuracy with fewer resources, we expect it to be used in various practical fields, such as developing new drugs and improving battery performance," said Dr. Hyang-Tag Lim of KIST. ### KIST was established in 1966 as the first government-funded research institute in Korea. KIST now strives to solve national and social challenges and secure growth engines through leading and innovative research. For more information, please visit KIST’s website at https://eng.kist.re.kr/ This research was supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister Yoo Sang-im) through the KIST Institutional Program and the Korea Research Foundation Quantum Computing Technology Development Project (2022M3E4A1043330). The research was published in the international journal Science Advances (IF: 11.7 JCR field top 7.8%). [Figure 1] [Figure 2]

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Cracking the Code of Performance Degradation in Solid Oxide Cells at the Atomic Level

Cracking the Code of Performance Degradation in Solid Oxide Cells at the Atomic Level - Unveiled the initial degradation mechanism at the nanoscale for the first time using advanced transmission electron microscopy (TEM). - Presented new indicators for the development of solid oxide electrolysis materials operated stably at high temperatures (>600°C). Dr. Hye Jung Chang and Dr. Kyung Joong Yoon (Director) of the Hydrogen Energy Materials Research Center at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST, President Sangrok Oh) have announced that they have elucidated the mechanism of the initial degradation phenomenon that triggers the performance drop of high-temperature solid oxide electrolysis cell systems, using advanced transmission electron microscopy. Unlike previous studies, which analyzed the final stages of degradation at the micrometer scale (1 µm, one-millionth of a meter), this study successfully verified the initial changes in electrolysis cell materials at the nanometer scale (1 nm, one-billionth of a meter). The research team identified the degradation mechanism occurring between the air electrode and electrolyte of the electrolysis cell through TEM diffraction analysis and theoretical calculations. The observations revealed that oxygen ions accumulated at the interface of the electrolyte, known as Yttria Stabilized Zirconia (YSZ), during the oxygen injection process that that drives the electrolysis reaction. Consequently, the atomic structure of the interfacial YSZ is compressed, leading to the formation of nanoscale defects and, eventually, cracks between the air electrode and the electrolyte, which in turn caused the deterioration of the cell's performance. Furthermore, by visually verifying the stress and defects formed at the interface, the team succeeded in elucidating the correlation between ions, atoms, nanoscale defects, pores, and cracks occurring in the early stages of degradation. This research achievement marks the first study to elucidate the degradation mechanism at the nanoscale, providing guidelines to address the performance decline of high-temperature electrolysis cells during long-term operation. Specifically, it could enable the development of materials that can operate stably above 600°C for extended periods, significantly enhancing the durability of commercial electrolysis cells. The nanoscale analytical technology using advanced TEM in this study can be applied to solve degradation issues in various energy devices. The research team plans to accelerate the commercialization of high-temperature electrolysis cells by collaborating with manufacturers to establish automated production processes for mass production. Additionally, they are conducting research to develop new materials that can suppress the accumulation of oxygen ions in specific areas of the electrolysis cell, aiming to increase production efficiency and reduce production costs, ultimately lowering the cost of clean hydrogen production. Dr. Chang from KIST stated, "Using advanced transmission electron microscopy, we were able to identify the causes of previously unknown degradation phenomena at the early stages. Based on this, we aim to present strategies to improve the durability and production efficiency of high-temperature electrolysis cells, contributing to the economic viability of clean hydrogen production." ### KIST was established in 1966 as the first government-funded research institute in Korea. KIST now strives to solve national and social challenges and secure growth engines through leading and innovative research. For more information, please visit KIST’s website at https://eng.kist.re.kr/ This research was supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister Sang Im Yoo) through KIST's major project and the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE) of Korea (Minister Deokgeun Ahn) (P0022331) supervised by the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT), along with National Research Council of Science and Technology (CAP22072-000), The findings have been published in the latest issue of the international journal Energy & Environmental Science (IF 32.4, JCR field 0.9%). [Figure 1] Analysis of Solid Oxide Interfaces Using Advanced Transmission Electron Microscopy (Selected as Back Cover Image for the EES Journal) [Figure 2] Identifying the Cause of Electrode Interface Delamination: Oxygen Ion Accumulation Leads to Changes in Atomic Structure and Formation of Nano Defects [Figure 3] Visualization of Nanoscale Interfacial Stress Identified Through TEM Diffraction Analysis and Density Functional Theory

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Breakthrough Idea for CCU Technology Commercialization from 'Carbon Cycle of the Earth'

Breakthrough Idea for CCU Technology Commercialization from 'Carbon Cycle of the Earth' - New silver-silica composite catalyst developed based on the idea of carbonate-silicate geochemical cycling - Controlled local pH and prevention of CO₂ transport degradation through a ‘silica-hydroxide’ cycle The research team led by Dr. Hyung-Suk Oh and Dr. Woong Hee Lee at the Clean Energy Research Center at Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST, President Sang-Rok Oh) has developed a silver-silica composite catalyst capable of reversible local pH control through a silica-hydroxide cycle, inspired by Earth’s natural cycles. This research draws inspiration from the carbonate-silicate cycle, known as the Earth’s inorganic carbon cycle, where carbon dioxide (CO₂) maintains balance. CO₂ is removed from the atmosphere as it is stored in weathered minerals, then released back into the atmosphere through volcanic activity. During the weathering of silicate rocks, dissolved silica (SiO₂) is produced, leading to carbonate rock formation, which eventually recycles back into silicate rock through volcanic activity, impacting Earth’s temperature regulation. The key substance in this cycle, silica, was applied to electrochemical CO₂ conversion reactions. Among the catalysts used in CCU technology, silver catalysts are highly effective at converting CO₂ into carbon monoxide (CO), a valuable raw material for petrochemical products. However, silver catalysts are not yet commercially viable, as they exhibit issues at high current densities, such as agglomeration or clumping of particles on the catalyst surface, which rapidly reduces selectivity for CO. To maintain the performance of the silver catalyst, the research team developed a silver-silica composite catalyst. During reactions, hydroxide ions (OH⁻) generated interact with silica, dissolving into a silicate form and precipitating back under neutral conditions, thereby controlling the pH. This approach addresses performance degradation issues at higher current densities without altering the catalyst's physical structure, relying solely on a chemical approach. The newly developed silver-silica composite catalyst showed near 100% selectivity even at a higher current density of 1 A cm⁻², compared to commercial silver catalysts that drop to about 60% selectivity at 800 mA cm⁻². Additionally, the catalyst boosted CO₂ conversion to CO by around 47%, achieving high efficiency even at elevated current densities. This silver-silica composite catalyst successfully enhances CO₂ reduction performance and durability at high current densities, significantly advancing the commercial potential of CCU technology for electrochemical CO₂ conversion. Its high CO selectivity and durability due to reversible cycling enable sustained performance over extended periods, improving productivity and economic feasibility. Moving forward, the team plans to optimize production processes for high-efficiency catalysts and conduct long-term durability testing for potential application in industrial facilities, such as power plants and petrochemical factories. Dr. Oh from KIST stated, “The research provides a significant direction in enhancing catalyst reversibility and environmental control strategies for electrochemical systems. It is expected to contribute to the future demonstration and commercialization of electrochemical systems.” ### KIST was established in 1966 as the first government-funded research institute in Korea. KIST now strives to solve national and social challenges and secure growth engines through leading and innovative research. For more information, please visit KIST’s website at https://eng.kist.re.kr/ This research was supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister Sang Im Yoo) through KIST's major project and the Carbon to X project (2020M3H7A1098229), and the Creative Convergence Research Project (CAP21011-100). The findings have been published as a front cover in the international journal ‘Energy & Environmental Science’ (IF 32.4, JCR Top 0.3%). [Figure 1] Diagram Representing Alkaline Issues in a Zero-Gap CO₂ Electrolysis Device [Figure 2] Diagram of the Silica-Hydroxide Cycle Occurring During the Electrochemical CO₂ Reduction Reaction Using a Silver-Silica Reduction Electrode [Figure 3] Front cover image

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High-Performance Inkjet Print Head Enhances Bioprinting Productivity

High-Performance Inkjet Print Head Enhances Bioprinting Productivity - Implementation of high-efficiency, low-heat bioprinting technology using piezoelectric thin film - Expected to expand applications in the organoid field, which was previously challenging due to thermal stability issues Bioprinting is a technology used to create three-dimensional structures, such as human tissues or organs, using bio-inks made of cells and hydrogels. However, conventional inkjet technology has difficulty dispensing bio-inks that are sensitive to temperature due to the heat generated during operation. Furthermore, conventional 3D bioprinting mainly utilizes simple syringe-type printing devices with a single needle, making it time-consuming to produce artificial organs like the brain, lungs, and heart. The Bionics Research Center team, led by Dr. Byung Chul Lee at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST, President Sang-Rok Oh), in collaboration with Dr. Seung-Hyup Baek’s team at the Electronic Materials Research Center and Professor Tae-Keun Kim’s team at Korea University (President Dong-Won Kim), has developed a bio-ink inkjet print head using the piezoelectric material PMN-PZT. This new print head is thinner but performs better than conventional designs. When applied, it enables the simultaneous dispensing of bio-ink at high resolution in multiple positions, significantly improving bioprinting productivity. The research team developed a multi-nozzle inkjet print head using high-performance PMN-PZT thin films. This technology allows individual control of 16 ink ejection units arranged at 300 μm intervals, resulting in 16 times higher driving efficiency compared to than conventional methods. This enhancement boosts productivity and stability in bioprinting, reducing the production time for artificial organs. In experiments, the team successfully printed hydrogels, a type of bio-ink, at a diameter of 32μm—half the size of conventional methods. The print speed achieved was 1.2 m/s, approximately 60 times faster than traditional methods. Additionally, the heat generation was reduced by 73.4%, keeping the temperature increase below 3.2 degrees Celsius during printing, ensuring a stable output environment. This allows for precise dispensing of high-viscosity materials and minimizes the deformation of temperature-sensitive bio-inks. The PMN-PZT-based print head developed in this research can be utilized in organoid fields such as artificial organ transplants and drug toxicity evaluations, where thermal stability has been challenging. Furthermore, the operating temperature remains below 30 degrees Celsius, preventing the deformation of temperature-sensitive electronic materials and providing a stable printing environment. Therefore, it has the potential for broad application in various industries, including electronic components beyond the medical field. Dr. Lee stated, “The new print head using PMN-PZT thin film material has enhanced the potential for high-resolution 3D organoid model production,” adding, “We plan to commercialize a 3D bioprinter capable of creating organs applicable for transplantation and toxicity evaluation by experimenting with various bio-inks such as gelatin.” ### KIST was established in 1966 as the first government-funded research institute in Korea. KIST now strives to solve national and social challenges and secure growth engines through leading and innovative research. For more information, please visit KIST’s website at https://eng.kist.re.kr/ This research was supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister Sang Im Yoo) through KIST's Major Projects and the National Core Materials Research Project (NRF-2020M3D1A2101933) funded by the Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister Sang-Im Yoo). The research findings were published in the international journal Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical (IF 8.0, JCR field 0.7%). [Figure 1] Schematic of a high-performance piezoelectric material-based print head for bioprinting applications [Figure 2] Experiment results of heat generation based on the driving signal of the inkjet print head [Figure 3] Results of hydrogel printing using the developed print head

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New Breakthrough in Quantum Computing Development, Hybrid Quantum Error Correction Technology

New Breakthrough in Quantum Computing Development, Hybrid Quantum Error Correction Technology - Hybrid quantum error correction technology opens new directions for quantum computer development - KIST, University of Chicago, and Seoul National University researchers develop leading core technology through international research cooperation A major challenge in realizing quantum computers is the development of 'quantum error correction' technology. This technology offers a solution for addressing errors that occur in the qubit, the basic unit of quantum computation, and prevents them from being amplified during the computation. Without quantum error correction, it would be impossible for quantum computers to outperform classical counterparts, and thus efforts to advance this technology are ongoing worldwide. Dr. Seung-Woo Lee's research team at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST)'s Quantum Technology Research Centre has developed the world's first hybrid quantum error correction technique for discrete variables (DV) and continuous variables (CV), and designed a fault-tolerant quantum computing architecture based on hybrid technique. Qubits implementing quantum error correction are called logical qubits, and they can be realized in two different ways: Discrete Variable (DV) and Continuous Variable (CV). Companies such as IBM, Google, Quera, and PsiQuantum are developing quantum computers using the DV method, while Amazon (AWS), Xanadu, and others are adopting the CV method. Each of these two approaches has advantages and disadvantages regarding manipulation difficulty and resource efficiency. KIST researchers have proposed a method to integrate the error correction of DV and CV qubits, which were previously developed separately. They developed a fault-tolerant architecture based on the hybrid technology and demonstrated through numerical simulations that it combines the advantages of both methods, enabling more efficient and effective quantum computation and error correction. In particular, in optical quantum computing, the hybrid approach can achieve the photon loss threshold up to four times higher than existing techniques and can improve the resource efficiency by more than 13 times while maintaining the same level of logic error rate. 'The hybrid quantum error correction technology developed in this study can be combined not only with optical systems but also with superconductors and ion trap systems,' said Dr Jaehak Lee of KIST. 'This research provides a new direction for the development of quantum computing,' said Dr Seung-Woo Lee of KIST, who led the research. 'Hybrid technologies that integrate the advantages of different platforms are expected to play a crucial role in developing and commercializing large-scale quantum computers.‘ KIST signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the University of Chicago in March last year to collaborate on quantum technology research, involving both institutions and Seoul National University. The researchers announced this important achievement in just over a year through international research collaboration, showing the potential to develop core technologies that will lead the world in the highly competitive field of quantum computing. KIST is hosting an international collaborative research centre for the development of core technologies for quantum error correction, with partner institutions including the University of Chicago, Seoul National University, and Canadian quantum computing company Xanadu. ### KIST was established in 1966 as the first government-funded research institute in Korea. KIST now strives to solve national and social challenges and secure growth engines through leading and innovative research. For more information, please visit KIST’s website at https://eng.kist.re.kr/ This research was supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister Sang-Im Yoo) under the KIST Major Project and Quantum Technology Cooperation Project (2022M3K4A1094774). The research results were published on 2 August in the international journal PRX Quantum (IF: 9.2 JCR, top 1.9%). [Figure 1] [Figure 2]

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Cosmic radiation is an obstacle to space travel...stop it with BNNT fibers!

- KIST develops neutron shielding fiber against space radiation - Utilizing BNNTs (boron nitride nanotubes), expected to be applied as a key material for aviation, space, and defense With the success of the Nuri launch last year and the recent launch of the newly established Korea Aerospace Administration, interest in space has increased, and both the public and private sectors are actively investing in space-related industries such as space travel. However, exposure to cosmic radiation is unavoidable when traveling to space. A research team led by Dr. Dae-Yoon Kim from the Center for Functional Composite Materials at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) has developed a new composite fiber that can effectively block neutrons in space radiation. Neutrons in space radiation negatively affect life activities and cause electronic devices to malfunction, posing a major threat to long-term space missions. By controlling the interaction between one-dimensional nanomaterials, boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs), and aramid polymers, the team developed a technique to perfectly blend the two difficult-to-mix materials. Based on this stabilized mixed solution, they produced lightweight, flexible, continuous fibers that do not burn at temperatures up to 500 °C. BNNTs have a similar structure to carbon nanotubes (CNTs), but because they contain a large number of boron in the lattice structure, their neutron absorption capacity is about 200,000 times higher than that of CNTs. Therefore, if the developed BNNT composite fibers are made into fabrics of the desired shape and size, they can be applied as a good material that can effectively block radiation neutron transmission. This means that BNNT composite fibers can be applied to the clothing we wear every day, effectively protecting flight crews, healthcare workers, power plant workers, and others who may be easily exposed to radiation. In addition, the ceramic nature of BNNTs makes them highly heat-resistant, so they can be used in extreme environments. Therefore, it can be used not only for space applications but also for defense and firefighting. "By applying the functional textiles we have developed to the clothing we wear every day, we can easily create a minimum safety device for neutron exposure," said Dr. Dae-Yoon Kim of KIST. "As Korea is developing very rapidly in the space and defense fields, we believe it will have great synergy." [Figure 1] Development of BNNT composite functional fibers for space radiation shielding / If continuous composite fibers containing high content of BNNTs are used as functional fabrics, they can effectively shield neutrons in space radiation to reduce harmful effects on human health and prevent soft errors in electronic devices. These functional fabrics are expected to play an important role in the fields of aviation, space, and national defense. [Figure 2] Development of BNNT composite continuous fibers / By overcoming the low dispersibility of BNNTs through interaction with aramid polymers, stable composite solutions can be prepared. This paves the way for the development of composite fibers that take advantage of the excellent properties of BNNTs and can be effectively utilized in various applications. [Figure 3] Applications of BNNT-based functional fabrics / The BNNT-based composite fibers can be manufactured into fabrics of various shapes and sizes through weaving. The developed fabrics can be utilized in clothing to protect astronauts, crew members, soldiers, firefighters, healthcare workers, and power plant workers who are expected to be exposed to radiation. The fabric can also be applied to electronic device packaging to prevent soft errors. ### KIST was established in 1966 as the first government-funded research institute in Korea. KIST now strives to solve national and social challenges and secure growth engines through leading and innovative research. For more information, please visit KIST’s website at https://eng.kist.re.kr/ This research was supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister Yoo Sang-im) through the KIST K-Lab Project and Mid-Career Researcher Support Project (2021R1A2C2009423), the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (Minister Ahn Deok-geun) through the High Performance Carbon Nanocomposite Fiber Development Project (RS202300258591), and the Ministry of Defense (Minister Shin Won-sik) through the Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement (DAPAKRITCT21014). The results of this research were published* in the latest issue of the international journal Advanced Fiber Materials (IF 17.2, JCR field 1.7%).

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KIST Celebrates 59th Anniversary with Commemorative Ceremony (Feb. 14, 2025)

KIST Celebrates 59th Anniversary with Commemorative Ceremony On February 10, 2025, KIST (President: Sang Rok Oh) held a commemorative ceremony to celebrate its 59th anniversary at Johnson Auditorium in its Seoul headquarters. The event featured an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding research achievements, the premiere of KIST’s new promotional video, and a performance by the Seongbuk-gu Junior Choir, adding a dynamic and celebratory touch to the occasion. This year’s ceremony was themed "Evergreen Pine," symbolizing how the resilience and pioneering spirit of KIST researchers is much like the enduring strength of a pine tree. At the heart of the ceremony was the presentation of the KIST Grand Award, the highest honor given among the monthly KIST Scientist Award recipients. This year’s recipients, Dr. Suk Woo Nam and Dr. So Young Lee from KIST’s Clean Hydrogen Institute, were recognized for their groundbreaking work in developing a next-generation fuel cell technology with unparalleled electrochemical performance and durability. The Songgok Science and Technology Award, established in honor of KIST’s founding President, Dr. Hyeong-Sup Choi, was awarded to Professor Yong Young Noh of POSTECH for his contributions to the development of p-type oxide semiconductors. Additionally, the KIST Global Partnership Award, which acknowledges individuals who have significantly advanced international cooperation in science and technology with KIST, was presented to H.E. István Szerdahelyi, Ambassador of Hungary to South Korea. Following the official ceremony, a luncheon gathering was held to foster camaraderie and engagement among KIST employees and alumni. In the main lobby, a “Vision for the 60th Anniversary” message board was installed, encouraging attendees to share their aspirations for KIST’s future, creating a meaningful moment of reflection and inspiration. In his commemorative address, KIST President Sang Rok Oh remarked, “Since its inception, KIST has laid the foundation for South Korea’s scientific and technological advancement, continually driving innovation and shaping new frontiers. Now, as we face an era of unprecedented change and challenges, science and technology remain our most vital tools for overcoming crises. KIST must stand at the forefront, leading South Korea’s scientific community towards bold transformation and a future of boundless possibilities.” Since its establishment in 1966, KIST has played a pivotal role in national development through innovative research. Recently, the institute marked a historic milestone with its largest-ever technology transfer agreement, demonstrating the real-world economic impact of its R&D achievements. This success underscores KIST’s technical excellence and robust industry-academia-research collaborations, reaffirming its critical role in driving South Korea’s industrial and economic growth. As KIST prepares to celebrate its 60th anniversary next year, it remains committed to solidifying its position as a global leader in scientific research and accelerating advancements for a sustainable future.

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KIST, Sinsin Pharm Sign Exosome-Hydrogel Technology Transfer Agreement for Inflammatory Disease Treatment (Feb. 7, 2025)

KIST and Sinsin Pharm Sign Exosome-Hydrogel Platform Technology Transfer Agreement for Inflammatory Disease Treatment On January 24, 2025, KIST (President: Sang Rok Oh) signed a technology transfer agreement with Sinsin Pharm (CEO: ByoungKi Lee) for the development of an exosome-hydrogel platform for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. The signing ceremony was held at KIST’s headquarters in Seongbuk-gu, Seoul. The signing marks a significant step in collaborative efforts to advance targeted therapies for diabetic foot ulcers and psoriasis. Diabetes is a prevalent health concern in South Korea, affecting approximately one in three adults over the age of 65. Among diabetic patients, 15–25% experience diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), a severe condition that can lead to limb amputation in advanced cases. While current treatments such as antibiotics, blood flow enhancement, and debridement surgery exist, they are often associated with high recurrence rates and slow healing. Similarly, psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease caused by immune system dysfunction. Despite the availability of steroid creams, phototherapy, and immunosuppressants, current treatments focus on symptom management rather than a permanent cure. Prolonged treatment poses significant burdens on patients, highlighting the urgent need for more effective and patient-friendly therapies. To revolutionize inflammatory disease treatment, a research team at KIST has proposed a sprayable hydrogel therapy incorporating milk-derived exosomes. These milk exosomes are highly stable, biocompatible, and cost-effective for mass production. With natural anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties, they can be further enhanced by encapsulating active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) such as bilirubin to maximize therapeutic efficacy. By integrating exosomes into functional hydrogels, the KIST research team aims to introduce a spray-type hydrogel that can be directly applied to wound areas, transforming the treatment paradigm for inflammatory diseases. To ensure the swift commercialization of this breakthrough technology, KIST has committed to supporting Sinsin Pharm through its BP Plus program for the next two years. This initiative will facilitate joint laboratory operations between the two organizations, enhancing technology readiness levels (TRL) and market preparation. Dr. Young Mee Jung, Principal Researcher at KIST’s Biomaterials Research Center and principal investigator for the study, commented, “This novel sprayable hydrogel, combined with a high-efficacy exosome complex, enables rapid and convenient application to large wound areas to treat inflammatory diseases. We believe this technology has the potential to overcome the limitations of existing treatments.” KIST President Sang Rok Oh emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships, stating, “Sinsin Pharm is a leading company specializing in topical pharmaceuticals. We are thrilled that KIST’s cutting-edge research is transitioning from the laboratory to real-world applications through this collaboration. KIST will continue to provide institutional support to ensure this technology can be commercialized.” Sinsin Pharm CEO ByoungKi Lee added, “This technology transfer will enable us to offer an innovative, patient-friendly treatment for diabetic foot ulcers and psoriasis, addressing the high unmet medical needs in these conditions. Through close collaboration with KIST, we will show our commitment to delivering high-quality pharmaceutical solutions that improve patients’ quality of life.” Founded in 1959, Sinsin Pharm is a leading provider of external-use pharmaceuticals, specializing in patches, aerosols, and liquid formulations. As South Korea moves toward a super-aging society, the company is actively developing convenient and accessible medications to enhance the quality of life for elderly patients. Through this strategic partnership, KIST and Sinsin Pharm aim to set new standards in inflammatory disease treatment, reinforcing their commitment to scientific innovation and patient-centered healthcare solutions.

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KIST Showcases Future Innovation Technologies at CES 2025 (Feb. 7, 2025)

KIST Showcases Future Innovation Technologies at CES 2025 KIST (President: Sang Rok Oh) announced that it would be participating in CES 2025, the world’s largest IT trade show, held in Las Vegas, USA, from January 7 to 10. This marks KIST’s fifth time taking part in the expo, following appearances in 2020, 2022, 2023, and 2024. At Eureka Park, a space dedicated to showcasing groundbreaking innovations, KIST unveiled seven cutting-edge technologies in the AI, semiconductor, quantum technology, and healthcare sectors, described in more detail below. The Post-Silicon Semiconductor Institute’s Center for Quantum Technology presented a pioneering AI-based technology that converts 2D single X-ray images into 3D visualizations while enhancing image clarity even in challenging conditions such as inclement weather. Dr. Min-Chul Park, the Principal Researcher at KIST responsible for the development of this technology, received the CES 2025 Innovation Award in recognition of his technological prowess. The AI & Robotics Institute showcased an AI-powered real-time traffic monitoring system, developed by Dr. Ig Jae Kim. The system analyzes vehicle tracking, counting, and speed estimation using only CCTV footage to help manage the traffic environment. In collaboration with TOPES, the technology is aimed to be integrated with smart traffic enforcement and intersection simulation for optimized urban mobility. The aim is to implement a system optimized for actual traffic situations by combining this technology with the forward/rear traffic control technology and smart intersection simulation technology of TOPES. In the future, this technology is likely to be developed into unmanned traffic control and intelligent traffic systems. Principal Researcher Gi Pyo Nam from the Center for Artificial Intelligence Research has developed a biometric analysis system that evaluates a person’s internal and external physiological signals through facial recognition. With high accuracy and rapid processing speed, this technology has applications in law enforcement, healthcare, and smart home services. Principal Researcher Heeseung Choi, also from the Center for Artificial Intelligence Research, introduced an AI-enabled kiosk that automatically verifies the identity of laboratory personnel and detects whether they are wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to determine whether or not they may access the laboratory. This system enhances lab safety and is expected to become a key technology in research and industrial sites. The Biomedical Research Division unveiled a Nano-Column CMUT-based wearable ultrasound patch, developed by Dr. Byung Chul Lee. Offering three times the performance of conventional ultrasound devices, this silicon-based patch is more environmentally friendly and can be used as a disposable product due to its low manufacturing cost. The patch is expected to expand into home telemedicine and various industrial applications. The Center for Advanced Biomolecular Recognition introduced a urine-based bladder cancer detection kit developed by Dr. Youngdo Jeong. This technology enables non-invasive, rapid diagnosis of bladder cancer using only a smartphone and a urine sample, eliminating the need for preprocessing or specialized medical equipment. It is a simple system that can diagnose bladder cancer at an early stage with high sensitivity and can be used frequently while reducing pain and infection risk for patients. And the Advanced Materials and Systems Research Division’s Electronic Materials Research Center presented an ultrasonic wireless charging system developed by Dr. Hyun-Cheol Song. This technology can wirelessly charge implanted medical devices, such as pacemakers, reducing the need for surgical battery replacements. It also holds potential for use in various industrial fields where long-distance wireless charging is required, such as underwater drones and sub-marine sensor networks. Commenting on the event, KIST President Sang Rok Oh stated, "KIST is proud to present its advanced technologies and products from innovative startups supported by KIST at CES 2025. We are committed to fostering global partnerships to accelerate the transfer and commercialization of KIST technologies, both in Korea and internationally."

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KIST Future Foundation Hosts 'Future Foundation Scholar Award' and Scholarship Ceremony (Feb. 6, 2025)

KIST Future Foundation Hosts 'Future Foundation Scholar Award' and Scholarship Ceremony On December 20, 2024, the KIST Future Foundation held an award and scholarship presentation ceremony at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST). The purpose of the event was to recognize outstanding researchers and students, award the Future Foundation Scholar Award, and provide scholarships to student researchers and early-career scientists. During the ceremony, Dr. Yong-Jik Kim, Chairman of the KIST Future Foundation, and Dr. Sang Rok Oh, President of KIST, presented the Future Foundation Scholar Award to Dr. Kwan Young Lee, Principal Researcher at KIST and Head of the Clean Hydrogen Storage and Utilization Strategy Research Center. As a newly appointed scholar at KIST, Dr. Lee received a research incentive grant of KRW 50 million along with a certificate of recognition. The grant is part of an initiative supported by POSCO and other industry leaders which aims to foster nationally significant R&D and enhance Korea’s research capabilities by supporting top-tier researchers in key scientific fields. Although only one newly appointed scholar was recognized this year, the Foundation plans to expand the award to two recipients annually based on the potential for interdisciplinary synergy, urgency of social problem-solving, and overall research impact. The award is expected to serve as a major incentive for leading scientists who contribute significantly to Korea’s scientific and industrial development. Following the Future Foundation Scholar Award, the event featured the presentation of scholarships, made possible through generous contributions from various foundations and corporate sponsors. The Guwon Scholarship Foundation contributed KRW 60 million, enabling the selection of 10 KIST postdoctoral researchers with outstanding research achievements. Each recipient was awarded a certificate and a KRW 6 million scholarship to support their continued research endeavors. Additionally, the KT&G Scholarship Foundation sponsored scholarships for KIST student researchers, with KIST Future Foundation Chairman Yong-Jik Kim, KT&G Scholarship Foundation Chairman Seung-Taek Kim, and KIST President Sang Rok Oh in attendance. A total of 33 student researchers, including both Korean and international students, were selected to receive a certificate and a KRW 3 million scholarship. This initiative was funded by a KRW 100 million grant from the KT&G Scholarship Foundation, aimed at fostering global scientific talent. Notably, the international scholars who received a scholarship represented six countries: Belarus, Mongolia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Bangladesh, and China. Recipients were chosen from among master’s, doctorate, and integrated MS-PhD programs based on their academic excellence and research performance. Established in March 2022, the KIST Future Foundation is the first public-interest foundation founded within Korea’s government-funded research institutes. The Foundation actively supports the development of highly skilled scientists, addresses pressing social challenges through academic initiatives, and provides scholarships to inspire and empower future generations. Since its inception, the Foundation has received ongoing support from KIST employees, alumni, and industry partners, strengthening its commitment to advancing national scientific and technological capabilities.

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KIST and Huons Bio Pharma Sign Technology Transfer Agreement for Peptide Therapy Targeting Dry AMD (Feb. 6, 2025)

KIST and Huons Bio Pharma Sign Technology Transfer Agreement for Peptide Therapy Targeting Dry AMD On December 17, 2024, the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), led by President Sang Rok Oh, signed a technology transfer agreement with Huons BioPharma (CEO: Yeong-mok Kim) to develop a peptide-based therapy for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The signing ceremony took place at KIST’s headquarters in Seongbuk-gu, Seoul. Under the agreement, the two organizations will engage in a 14-month joint research collaboration to accelerate the commercialization of the peptide therapy, with a focus on improving treatments for elderly patients. The Natural Product Drug Development Division, launched in September 2024 as one of KIST’s mission-driven research institutes, is leveraging more than 20 years of expertise in drug discovery accumulated at KIST’s Gangneung Natural Products Research Center to advance global natural product-based pharmaceuticals. The division aims to develop novel treatments for cancer and age-related refractory diseases, including AMD, by utilizing cutting-edge bio-convergence technologies, and drive forward new drug development through the establishment of Target Product Profiles (TPPs) for each material and external collaborations with pharmaceutical companies and contract research organizations (CROs). The peptide therapy was identified as a key candidate for dry AMD through close collaboration with leading research institutions in Gangwon Province. Moving forward, KIST and Huons Bio Pharma will work together to advance the therapy to global clinical trials. Dr. Moon-Hyung Seo, the principal investigator at KIST, stated, “The KIST Natural Product Drug Development Division, established this past September, is focused on mission-driven research to develop global therapeutics for age-related diseases, particularly cancer and ophthalmic disorders. Through technology transfers and our BP Plus initiative, we plan to operate joint research labs with industry partners, facilitating the rapid commercialization of our innovations.” KIST President Sang Rok Oh emphasized the significance of the agreement, stating, “This collaboration between KIST and Huons Bio Pharma is a prime example of our BP Plus initiative, which actively supports our technology transfer partners with the commercialization process. It is also a meaningful milestone, being the first success story from KIST’s mission-driven research institutes, which were launched this year. We hope this partnership will help bring KIST’s cutting-edge technology to the market, ultimately improving public health.” Yeong-mok Kim, CEO of Huons Bio Pharma, expressed strong commitment to the project, saying, “As the global population ages, securing a robust pipeline of peptide-based therapeutics will be crucial for gaining a competitive edge in the age-related disease market. We will closely collaborate with KIST to advance this innovative dry AMD therapy through global clinical trials and secure regulatory approvals.” Huons Bio Pharma, a subsidiary of Huons Group, specializes in biopharmaceuticals, including botulinum toxin products. The company was established in 2021 through a corporate spinoff from Huons Global’s biotechnology division.

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KIST Holds 3rd Term Upright Citizen Auditors Appointment Ceremony and Regular Meeting (Nov. 26, 2024)

KIST Holds 3rd Term Upright Citizen Auditors Appointment Ceremony and Regular Meeting On November 26, 2024, the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), led by President Sang Rok Oh, announced the launch of the 3rd term of its Upright Citizen Auditors during an appointment ceremony held that day at KIST's Seoul headquarters. The ceremony, attended by the KIST President and key officials, was followed by a regular meeting where discussions were held under the theme “Strategies for Promoting Anti-Corruption and Integrity Policies.” The newly appointed 3rd Term Upright Citizen Auditors include Professor Jae Hoon Lee (Lawyer, School of Law, Sungshin Women’s University), Certified Public Accountant Gu-Ho Choi (Daeyoung Accounting Corporation), and Labor Attorney Chae-Nui Park (Hansoo Labor Law Firm). Each of them will serve for a two-year term. The Upright Citizen Auditor system is an external anti-corruption initiative introduced and run by KIST since 2017, designed to provide consultation on KIST's major projects and areas prone to corruption, and makes suggestions and recommendations for system improvements. KIST President Sang Rok Oh remarked, “Over the past eight years, the Upright Citizen Auditors have played a crucial role in helping us improve outdated systems and practices through their advice and suggestions. With the launch of the 3rd Term of this auditor system, we anticipate continued active participation and meaningful contributions to strengthening KIST’s integrity.” He also emphasized KIST’s ongoing dedication to enhancing organizational transparency. KIST has consistently demonstrated its commitment to ethical management, having obtained ISO 37001 (Anti-Bribery Management Systems) certification in 2021. Looking ahead, KIST plans to be the first government-funded research institute to introduce and acquire ISO 37301 (Compliance Management Systems) certification by 2025. These efforts reflect KIST’s goal to achieve global standards not only in research excellence but also in ethical governance, reinforcing its reputation as a trusted institution among the government and the public.

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KIST/Angelini Pharma/Cureverse Sign Agreement for Development of Brain Disease Therapeutic Technologies (Nov. 12, 2024)

KIST Signs Collaboration Agreement with Angelini Pharma and Cureverse for Development of Therapeutic Technologies for Brain Diseases On November 12, 2024, the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), led by President Sang Rok Oh, announced the signing of a strategic collaboration agreement with the Italian global pharmaceutical company Angelini Pharma and Cureverse, a research institute spin-off backed by KIST, focused on advancing the development of innovative therapeutics for brain diseases. Under this partnership, KIST will support technology licensing agreements between Cureverse and Angelini Pharma, provide research resources and infrastructure aimed at developing new therapeutics related to brain health, and work to strengthen each institution’s efforts to commercialize their technologies. Notably, Cureverse recently entered into a USD 370 million (approx. KRW 506 billion) technology transfer agreement with Angelini Pharma on October 16 for its oral dementia drug candidate, CV-01. The signing ceremony, held at KIST's headquarters in Seoul, was attended by KIST President Sang Rok Oh, Angelini Pharma’s Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) Rafal Kaminski, Cureverse CEO Seong-Jin Cho, and Hee-Kwon Jeong, Chairman of the Innopolis Foundation. Regarding the signing, KIST President Sang Rok Oh stated, “KIST is committed to solving pressing societal challenges through innovative research. We anticipate that this collaboration with Angelini Pharma and Cureverse will deliver significant advancements in brain disease therapeutics. Moving forward, we will continue expanding partnerships with domestic and international institutions and companies to foster ongoing technological innovation.” Rafal Kaminski, CSO of Angelini Pharma, remarked, “This agreement will accelerate Angelini Pharma’s global drug development and commercialization initiatives. Our collaboration with KIST and Cureverse will serve as a critical stepping stone for advancing brain disease treatments.” Cureverse CEO Seong-Jin Cho added, “As a bio-startup nurtured through KIST’s support, Cureverse is thrilled to seize the opportunity to enter the global market that this agreement presents. We are dedicated to continuing our work with KIST and Angelini Pharma to develop groundbreaking therapeutics for brain diseases.” Chairman Hee-Kwon Jeong of the Innopolis Foundation commented, “Research institute spin-offs like Cureverse represent the core assets of research and development clusters. This agreement establishes an essential bridge for startups within these clusters to expand into the global market. Innopolis Foundation will remain steadfast in supporting innovative companies with achieving international success.” Through this agreement, KIST aims to facilitate technology collaboration between Angelini Pharma and Cureverse, further paving the way for domestic bio-companies to enter the global market, and driving innovation in brain disease therapeutics research. Cureverse, which has benefitted from KIST’s technology transfers, funding support, and infrastructure as part of the Hongneung Innopolis Cluster, has been advancing the development of innovative brain disease therapeutics. This partnership will solidify its foundation for achieving greater success in the global biotechnology market.

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KIST and Hongik University Sign MOU to Enhance Collaboration in Development of Public Technologies (Nov. 6, 2024)

KIST and Hongik University Sign MOU to Enhance Collaboration in Development of Public Technologies On November 6, 2024, the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), led by President Sang Rok Oh, and Hongik University, led by President Sang Ju Park, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to pursue cooperation in the development of public technologies through the strengthening of design elements necessary for science and technology. Key areas of cooperation outlined in the MOU include: - Research collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and smart farm production technologies - Joint participation in national R&D projects and collaborative research initiatives - Mutual exchange of technology and personnel to foster joint research efforts - Organization of joint seminars, symposiums, and research presentations Notably, KIST's Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Institute and Hongik University’s Smart Mobility Research Center also formalized a departmental agreement to facilitate practical collaboration. Under this partnership, KIST will focus on advancing robotics and AI technologies, while Hongik University will contribute its expertise in robotics design, user interface (UI), and user experience (UX) development. Regarding the signing, KIST President Sang Rok Oh stated, “By allowing KIST researchers to focus on the technical aspects while Hongik University experts strengthen service design, this collaboration will generate a tremendous synergy effect. Through active cooperation between KIST’s mission-driven Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Institute and Hongik University’s Smart Mobility Research Center, we aim to deliver tangible outcomes in the public service robotics sector that will directly benefit society.” Meanwhile, Hongik University President Sang Ju Park emphasized the importance of design in science and technology, saying, “Design elements play a crucial role in enhancing functionality, usability, and user experience, which ultimately determines the successful adoption of a product or technology. We hope that this agreement will foster broader collaboration between our two institutions, driving advancements that benefit both society and our organizations.” Both sides expressed their commitment to building a robust cooperation framework, stating, “Starting with this MOU and symposium, we will establish a cooperative system for conducting regular joint research, producing research outcomes through periodic presentations, and swiftly mobilizing specialized research personnel during times of crisis.”

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KIST Strengthens Clean Hydrogen Research with Appointment of Dr. Suk Woo Nam and Prof. Kwan Young Lee (Sept. 2, 2024)

KIST Strengthens Clean Hydrogen Research with the Appointment of Dr. Suk Woo Nam and Prof. Kwan Young Lee KIST (President: Sang Rok Oh) has announced the appointment of Dr. Suk Woo Nam and Prof. Kwan Young Lee to the KIST Clean Hydrogen Institute. Dr. Nam is a leading researcher in the fields of fuel cells and chemical hydrogen storage. He has made significant contributions to advancing high-temperature fuel cell technology and developing foundational technologies for hydrogen storage and extraction at KIST. His exceptional research capabilities have been recognized with the bestowing of the prestigious Order of Science and Technology Merit, the Ungbi (Great Achievement) Medal. Prof. Kwan-Young Lee is an expert not only in chemical hydrogen storage, such as Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers (LOHCs), but also in bioenergy and environmental catalysis. He is well-known for his work in catalyst development for biomass conversion and designing direct synthesis catalysts for hydrogen peroxide in collaboration with KIST researchers. Prof. Lee has served as Dean of the Graduate School and Vice President for Research at Korea University, and has published over 350 papers in SCI(E)-indexed international journals. His outstanding contributions to science have earned him the Order of Science and Technology Merit, the Doyak (Leap) Medal. The expertise of Dr. Nam and Prof. Lee in hydrogen storage, extraction, and utilization is expected to significantly enhance the research capabilities of KIST's Clean Hydrogen Institute. Their appointments will accelerate KIST's efforts to innovate in clean hydrogen technology and transition towards mission-oriented R&D. Dr. Nam expressed his vision, stating, "As the Project Manager (PM) of the Clean Hydrogen Institute, I plan to define KIST’s unique mission, assemble a specialized research team, and conduct demonstration studies from the end user's perspective to deliver tangible results that resonate with the public." Prof. Lee emphasized his commitment to global excellence, saying, "I will leverage KIST's internal capabilities to conduct world-class research in the hydrogen energy field." President Oh of KIST commented, "We are honored to welcome Dr. Suk Woo Nam and Prof. Kwan Young Lee to strengthen the research capabilities of our Clean Hydrogen Institute. We anticipate that their expertise will enable KIST to achieve world-class results in the field of clean hydrogen research."

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KIST and MFDS Sign MOU to Enhance Regulatory Science Capabilities (August 8, 2024)

KIST and MFDS Sign MOU to Enhance Regulatory Science Capabilities Seoul, August 8, 2023 –KIST (President: Sang Rok Oh) announced the signing of an MOU with the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS; Minister: Yu-Kyoung Oh) to strengthen research and collaboration in various fields including food, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, narcotics, and cosmetics in order to strengthen regulatory science capabilities based on specialized expertise. Key aspects of the MOU include: ▲ Identifying and planning collaborative research projects and providing technical consultation in fields such as food, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, narcotics, and cosmetics. ▲ Promoting mutual cooperation and joint research on national R&D projects. ▲ Establishing international standards through global collaboration with organizations such as WHO, OECD, and UNODC. ▲ Sharing the latest research information and trends domestically and internationally. ▲ Joint utilization of research facilities and equipment. Notably, KIST and MFDS have embarked on a joint research initiative with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) starting this August. This initiative aims to elevate the "Narcotic Dependence Testing Guidelines," developed by the MFDS in 2023, to a UN guideline. This joint research effort is significant as it will establish the first international standards for narcotic dependence assessment techniques and result indicators. KIST President Sang Rok Oh expressed his hope for this collaboration, stating, “We look forward to seeing successful research outcomes come about as a result of this MOU and will continue to conduct research that benefits the public, leveraging KIST’s advanced scientific research capabilities in partnership with MFDS.” MFDS Minister Yu-Kyoung Oh remarked, “We hope this agreement will lead to a robust collaborative relationship between MFDS and KIST, fostering mutual growth. Moving forward, MFDS will continue to develop policies and ensure the safety of food, pharmaceuticals, and other products through scientific evidence.”

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2022-1 KIST Researcher Recruitment Announcement

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