Dean Yong Hwan Kim of College of Engineering at UNIST has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering of Korea (NAEK), the most prestigious organization in the field of engineering in Korea. This year, NAEK has welcomed 69 new members and 48 associates, all of whom have demonstrated outstanding achievements in original research. Membership in NAEK is considered one of the highest professional distinctions for engineers.
A world-class researcher in enzyme protein engineering, Dean Kim has significantly advanced the field by expanding the potential applications of enzymes through the integration of life sciences and chemistry.
In 2018, he was acknowledged among the top 100 national excellence studies for his impactful research. Since 2020, Dean Kim has concentrated his efforts on developing biodegradable plastic technology as the head of the Engineering Research Center (ERC). His innovative work addressing climate change earned him a commendation from the Minister of Science and ICT in 2022.
Over the past three years, he has published six papers in prestigious Nature journals, including Nature Catalysis and Nature Communications, further underscoring the excellence of his research contributions.
Membership in NAEK is granted through a rigorous selection process that evaluates accomplishments across various domains, including academic achievements, technological innovations, contributions to industry, and talent development. Dean Kim has successfully completed this multi-level screening process and has been inducted as a new member in the chemical biology division of NAEK.
Upon his election, Dean Kim remarked, “It is meaningful that research in enzyme protein engineering contributes to advancements in engineering.” He further emphasized, “We will create social value by spearheading innovations in the sustainable petrochemical and plastic industries.”
