There is a researcher opening up new possibilities in gene therapy and disease diagnosis through the convergence of biomolecules and nanotechnology. Professor Cho Hyun-yeol of Kookmin University's Department of Bio & Fermentation Convergence is leading the ‘Bio-Nano Device Laboratory’ and gaining attention for his research that transcends the boundaries between biomaterials and engineering.

Motivation for Starting Research and Education at Kookmin University 
Professor Cho Hyun-yeol deeply empathized with Kookmin University’s spirit of ‘pragmatism’ and was attracted to an environment where he could pursue both research and education concurrently, which led him to join the institution. He conveyed that the convergent research environment of the Department of Bio & Fermentation Convergence, in particular, allows for a broad scope of work from basic biology to applied biotechnology, serving as a driving force for continuous research and collaboration.

Introducing the Lab and Main Research Areas 
Professor Cho Hyun-yeol designs nanoscale structures utilizing biomolecules such as DNA, RNA, and proteins. Through these, he conducts various convergent research projects, including: 
● Drug delivery 
● Stem cell regulation 
● Tissue regeneration 
● Biosensor development 
These technologies are especially noted for offering practical solutions in disease diagnosis and gene therapy, and are gaining attention as next-generation medical technologies.

Major Research Projects and Application Cases 
Currently, his work focuses on developing therapeutics for genetic and intractable diseases based on gene scissor technology. In particular, research on gene therapy methods applicable to diseases like chronic hepatitis B is actively underway. Furthermore, one of the professor's research projects, a blood-based cancer diagnosis technology, has been applied in actual clinical settings. It is used to determine cancer metastasis by analyzing circulating tumor cells in the blood, without the need for tissue biopsy.

Mindset for Researchers and Advice for Students 
Professor Cho cited 
● curiosity 
● open-mindedness 
● perseverance 
as core competencies for becoming an excellent researcher. He emphasized the importance of an attitude that integrates various technologies and academic disciplines, overcomes failures, and solves problems. He also advised students aspiring to enter the bio-industry to cultivate "the ability for technology convergence and flexible interdisciplinary thinking."

Strengths of Kookmin University's Department of Bio & Fermentation Convergence
Kookmin University's Department of Bio & Fermentation Convergence is equipped with an educational and research environment that covers the entire cycle from basic to applied science. It supports students in simultaneously acquiring practical skills and expertise through experiences in industrialization and commercialization. Graduates advance into various career paths, including the pharmaceutical, biotech, and cosmetics industries, as well as research institutes and graduate schools.

Bio-Nano Device Laboratory Introduction Page 
Kookmin University, Department of Bio & Fermentation Convergence Homepage