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Lab Overview
Our lab is grounded in Interfacial Molecular Engineering, where we design “where, how much, and how” molecules attach, capture, and release at surfaces and interfaces to create functional materials that perform reliably in real-world settings. By controlling interactions at surfaces (interfaces) in a deliberate way, we conduct research spanning biomaterials for biomedical applications, functional surface materials for adhesion/coatings/flame retardancy, and capture/sensing materials for diagnostic and environmental analysis.
Key Research Areas
1) Biomaterials for Biomedical Applications: Designing the Interface Between Tissues and Materials
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We develop bone-regenerative scaffolds, artificial periosteum, and bone adhesives by designing “adhesive properties” that enable stable attachment to bone/tissue surfaces.
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For soft-tissue applications such as scar regeneration and tissue fillers, we tune surface properties so that materials can function compatibly at the tissue–material interface.
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We design polymer-based drug delivery systems and microneedle platforms by engineering “capture/targeting behavior” and “release rates” to deliver therapeutics to the intended site and release them at the desired pace.
2) Sustainable Industrial Materials: Functional Surface Materials for Adhesion, Coatings, and Flame Retardancy
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We develop eco-friendly adhesives and coating materials, and improve performance by understanding and engineering “why materials adhere” across diverse substrates (metals, glass, polymers, and fibers).
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We design coating structures and compositions that remain strongly fixed to surfaces while providing functions such as protection and durability.
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Using nature-derived materials, we impart flame-retardant performance and develop functional materials that can be implemented as surface coatings.
3) Diagnostic & Environmental Materials: Selective Capture and Sensing
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We develop materials that selectively capture specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for use in diagnostic and environmental monitoring applications.
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We enhance selectivity through designs such as molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs), which are engineered to bind specific target molecules.
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We also develop practical capture materials for real-world needs, including heavy-metal capture and odor control.
Our Approach
Our research follows a workflow of “design → build → measure/verify → translate to applications.” By controlling how molecules attach, capture, and release at surfaces and interfaces, we aim to advance functional materials that address real-world challenges. If you are interested in any of the research areas above, we warmly welcome your application to our lab.
International students are welcome to apply; however, proficiency in Korean for smooth day-to-day communication is required.