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UNIST Honors Three Faculty Members for Excellence in Convergence and Innovation

[UNIST 개원기념식] 융합·혁신 성과 우수교원 대상 3인 시상

At the 18th anniversary ceremony of UNIST, Professors Sungyeon Jang (Energy and Chemical Engineering), Seungjun Yang (Graduate School of Artificial Intelligence), and Soohyun Kim (Materials Science and Engineering) were honored with the Outstanding Faculty Awards in the categories of Research, Education, and Industry-Academia Collaboration. | Photo by Deokgi Lee.

 

Recognizing achievements in research, education, and industry-academia collaboration

Driving future growth in AI, renewable energy, and semiconductors

September 26, 2025 | By Geunyoung Kim

 

Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) celebrated its 18th anniversary on September 25 by presenting the “Outstanding Faculty Awards” to three professors who have demonstrated exceptional accomplishments in research, education, and industry-academia cooperation.

The awardees are leading UNIST’s innovation and growth by integrating core technologies of future industries such as artificial intelligence (AI), renewable energy, and semiconductors.

Professor Sungyeon Jang from the Department of Energy and Chemical Engineering received the Research Award for his groundbreaking study on perovskite quantum dot solar cells, published in the prestigious journal Nature Energy. His work, which proves the potential for high-efficiency solar power generation, is considered a key contribution to the transition toward renewable energy.

Professor Seungjun Yang from the Graduate School of Artificial Intelligence was honored with the Education Award. He spearheaded the “Novatus Academy,” an innovative platform that combines advanced AI education with project-based learning, bridging the gap between academia and industry. His customized AI programs, catering to everyone from undergraduates to CEOs, are helping cultivate the next generation of talent.

The Industry-Academia Collaboration Award went to Professor Soohyun Kim of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. Professor Kim has strengthened ties between academia and major domestic and international companies, including SK hynix, through collaborative research and education in semiconductors. He played a pivotal role in launching interdisciplinary programs to train semiconductor specialists and amplify synergy with the industry.

President Jongrae Park stated, “These awards reflect UNIST’s leadership in convergence research and educational innovation across future-critical industries. We will continue to advance global research capabilities and nurture top-tier talent to drive sustainable growth and progress.”