Professor at Kyungpook National University, South Korea.
Prof. Ui Wook Hwang, a renowned molecular biologist and educator, has been a dedicated faculty member at the Department of Biology, Teachers College, KNU, Republic of Korea, since 2001, achieving the rank of Professor in 2012. He currently serves as Director of Brain Korea 21 Four, CEO of Phylomic Inc., and holds editorial roles in leading journals like Scientific Reports and International Journal of Molecular Sciences. With a Ph.D. in Animal Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution from Seoul National University and postdoctoral fellowships in Germany and at Harvard University, his research focuses on arthropod phylogeny, mitochondrial genomics, and science education for gifted youth. He has led transformative projects, including Korea-EU research innovation programs and STEAM education development, while securing significant research funding. Prof. Hwang’s impactful work has earned him numerous accolades, including the Minister Award (Ministry of Environment) and the Best Journal Paper Award. A passionate educator, he inspires future scientists through courses in molecular systematics, bioinformatics, and science education.
Profile
Google Scholar
Education 🎓:
Prof. Ui Wook Hwang has a distinguished academic foundation in molecular biology, phylogenetics, and evolution. He earned his Ph.D. in Animal Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution from Seoul National University in 1998. He also holds an M.S. and B.A. in Molecular Genetics and Biology, respectively, from Jeonbuk National University. His global academic experience includes a postdoctoral fellowship at Yonsei University Medical School, Korea, and research positions in Germany and as a visiting scholar at Harvard University. This robust academic portfolio underpins his expertise in molecular systematics and evolutionary biology.
Work Experience 💼:
With over two decades of academic service at Kyungpook National University (KNU), Prof. Hwang has held various roles, including Professor, Department Chair, and Director of multiple institutes. His leadership spans across research innovation programs, the International Junior Science Olympiad, and bio-convergence initiatives. As a project leader and administrator, he has spearheaded national and international research projects, demonstrating an exceptional ability to integrate science, education, and industrial collaboration.
Awards and Honors
Prof. Hwang’s contributions have earned him accolades such as the Minister Award from the Ministry of Environment and the Won-Am Academy Award. His recognition extends to Best Journal Paper of the Year and prestigious scholarships, including one from the LG Yonam Foundation. These honors affirm his status as a leading figure in his field, acknowledged both nationally and internationally.
Research Interests:
Prof. Hwang’s research focuses on arthropod phylogeny, mitochondrial genomics, and population genetics of invertebrates. His interdisciplinary approach extends to bioinformatics and science education for gifted youth. His work has contributed to advancing the understanding of genome evolution and molecular systematics, reflecting a profound commitment to both research excellence and societal impact.
📚 Publications
- Mitochondrial protein phylogeny joins myriapods with chelicerates
- Authors: UW Hwang, M Friedrich, D Tautz, CJ Park, W Kim
- Journal: Nature
- Volume: 413(6852), Pages: 154–157
- Citations: 324
- Year: 2001
- General properties and phylogenetic utilities of nuclear ribosomal DNA and mitochondrial DNA commonly used in molecular systematics
- Authors: UW Hwang, W Kim
- Journal: The Korean Journal of Parasitology
- Volume: 37(4), Pages: 215
- Citations: 220
- Year: 1999
- Identification of Taenia asiatica in China: Molecular, morphological, and epidemiological analysis of a Luzhai isolate
- Authors: KS Eom, HK Jeon, Y Kong, UW Hwang, Y Yang, X Li, L Xu, Z Feng, …
- Journal: Journal of Parasitology
- Volume: 88(4), Pages: 758–764
- Citations: 107
- Year: 2002
- Phylogenetic position of the ciliates Phacodinium (Order Phacodiniida) and Protocruzia (Subclass Protocruziidia) and systematics of the spirotrich ciliates examined by small …
- Authors: MK Shin, UW Hwang, W Kim, ADG Wright, C Krawczyk, DH Lynn
- Journal: European Journal of Protistology
- Volume: 36(3), Pages: 293–302
- Citations: 87
- Year: 2000
- One-step PCR amplification of complete arthropod mitochondrial genomes
- Authors: UW Hwang, CJ Park, TS Yong, W Kim
- Journal: Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution
- Volume: 19(3), Pages: 345–352
- Citations: 84
- Year: 2001
- Complete mitochondrial genome of Bugula neritina (Bryozoa, Gymnolaemata, Cheilostomata): phylogenetic position of Bryozoa and phylogeny of lophophorates …
- Authors: KH Jang, UW Hwang
- Journal: BMC Genomics
- Volume: 10, Pages: 1–18
- Citations: 82
- Year: 2009
Conclusion
Prof. Ui Wook Hwang’s exceptional achievements in research, education, and innovation make him a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His vast contributions to molecular biology, combined with his leadership in national and international initiatives, have significantly advanced scientific knowledge and education.