Ui Wook Hwang | Biology and Life Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Research Excellence Award

Ui Wook Hwang
Kyungpook National University, South Korea
Ui Wook Hwang
Affiliation Kyungpook National University
Country South Korea
Scopus ID 35074015800
Documents 134
Citations 2117
h-index 26
Subject Area Biology and Life Sciences
Event Top Teachers Awards
ORCID 0000-0002-9735-8716
Google Scholar 5YycGS0AAAAJ

Ui Wook Hwang is a senior academic researcher and professor affiliated with the Department of Biology and the Department of Advanced Bioconvergence at Kyungpook National University, South Korea. His scholarly work primarily focuses on molecular phylogenetics, evolutionary biology, zoology, mitochondrial genomics, and biodiversity research. His academic profile demonstrates sustained contributions to biological sciences through publication activity, institutional leadership, international collaboration, and scientific service within Korea and the broader international research community.[1]

Abstract

This article presents an academic overview of the professional achievements, research contributions, and scholarly activities of Ui Wook Hwang of Kyungpook National University. His research portfolio encompasses molecular evolution, mitochondrial genomics, phylogenetics, marine biology, zoology, and biodiversity science. The profile also highlights his institutional leadership roles, publication record, international collaborations, and participation in scientific organizations relevant to the biological sciences community.[1]

Keywords

Molecular phylogenetics, evolutionary biology, mitochondrial genomics, zoology, biodiversity science, marine biology, taxonomy, genomic epidemiology, biological systematics, phylogeography.

Introduction

Ui Wook Hwang has maintained a multidisciplinary academic career centered on evolutionary biology and molecular systematics. His research activities integrate genomic analysis, biodiversity investigation, and evolutionary interpretation within zoological and biological sciences. In addition to scientific publication activities, he has held numerous academic leadership positions at Kyungpook National University and within national scientific organizations in the Republic of Korea.[2]

His academic development includes international scholarly experience as a visiting scholar at Harvard University and research training in Germany. These experiences contributed to the development of an internationally engaged research profile emphasizing molecular evolution and comparative genomics.[3]

Research Profile

The academic profile of Ui Wook Hwang demonstrates sustained engagement in higher education, research administration, and scientific leadership. His professional positions include Full Professor and Chair of the Department of Biology at Kyungpook National University, Chair of the Department of Advanced Bioconvergence, Director of the Institute for Phylogenomics and Evolution, and Director of the Korea Herb-Bio Convergence Promotion Institute.[2]

  • Full Professor and Chair, Department of Biology, Kyungpook National University.
  • Chair, Department of Advanced Bioconvergence, Graduate School, Kyungpook National University.
  • Director, BK21 Four KNU Center for Innovative One-Health Leaders.
  • President, The Malacological Society of Korea.
  • Former President, Korean Society of Systematic Zoology.

Research Contributions

The research contributions of Ui Wook Hwang are associated with molecular phylogenetics, mitochondrial genome evolution, marine biodiversity, and evolutionary genomics. His work has contributed to the understanding of species evolution, phylogeographic patterns, and genomic diversity across marine and terrestrial organisms.[4]

His publications include studies on mitochondrial genome evolution in parasitic barnacles, molecular population genetics in East Asian marine species, and genomic analysis of mosquito vectors. Several studies have appeared in internationally indexed journals including Nature, Molecular Biology and Evolution, and Frontiers in Marine Science.[5]

  • Research on mitochondrial genome-based systematics and evolution.
  • Studies concerning marine biodiversity and zoological taxonomy.
  • Comparative genomic investigations in parasitic and marine organisms.
  • Scientific communication related to global bioinformatics and genomic epidemiology.

Publications

Ui Wook Hwang has contributed extensively to molecular phylogenetics, mitochondrial genomics, marine biodiversity, and evolutionary biology through publications in internationally recognized scientific journals. His research explores genomic evolution, phylogeographic diversity, and biological systematics, supporting ongoing advancements in zoological and evolutionary science while strengthening interdisciplinary understanding within contemporary biological research.[4]

  1. Morphology and mitochondrial genome-based analysis of the systematics and evolution of Acanthochitona species. Marine Life Science & Technology, 2026. DOI: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s42995-026-00362-9
  2. Evolutionary insights from complete mitochondrial genomes of Aedes albopictus and Culex pipiens molestus. Animal Cells and Systems, 2026. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/19768354.2026.2620255
  3. Accelerated mitochondrial genome evolution in parasitic barnacles driven by adaptive and non-adaptive responses. Molecular Biology and Evolution, 2025. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/molbev/msaf303
  4. Molecular population genetics and phylogeographic studies of Ligia exotica and Ligia cinerascens in East Asia. Frontiers in Marine Science, 2023. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2023.1260171
  5. Africa needs more bioinformaticians for population studies. Nature, 2022. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-022-01378-8

Research Impact

The research output of Ui Wook Hwang reflects measurable academic impact within the biological sciences community. His Scopus profile records more than two thousand citations and an h-index of 26, indicating continuing scholarly engagement with his publications across multiple research domains.[1]

His interdisciplinary work linking molecular phylogenetics, biodiversity studies, and genomic analysis contributes to broader scientific understanding in evolutionary biology and zoological systematics. Participation in scientific advisory boards, research foundations, and educational initiatives further reflects his role within academic leadership and scientific administration.[2]

Award Suitability

Ui Wook Hwang has demonstrated significant contributions to scientific research, higher education, and international academic collaboration through his scholarly publications, leadership roles, and work in biological and evolutionary sciences.[3]

His involvement in multidisciplinary biological research, mentorship initiatives, institutional leadership, and internationally indexed scientific publications supports consideration within the framework of the Top Teachers Awards and similar academic recognition programs.[5]

Conclusion

Ui Wook Hwang has developed a substantial academic profile characterized by contributions to molecular evolution, phylogenetics, biodiversity science, and higher education leadership. His scholarly publications, institutional responsibilities, and participation in scientific organizations collectively illustrate a sustained commitment to biological sciences research and academic advancement within both national and international contexts.[1]

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Ui Wook Hwang, Author ID 35074015800. Scopus. https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=35074015800
  2. Kyungpook National University. (n.d.). Department of Advanced Bioconvergence and Faculty Information. https://www.knu.ac.kr/
  3. ORCID. (n.d.). Ui Wook Hwang ORCID Record. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9735-8716
  4. Frontiers Media SA. (2023). Molecular population genetics and phylogeographic studies of Ligia exotica and Ligia cinerascens in East Asia. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2023.1260171
  5. Nature Publishing Group. (2022). Africa needs more bioinformaticians for population studies. https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-022-01378-8

FRANCESCO PADUANO | Biology | Lifetime achievement Award

Dr.FRANCESCOPADUANO|Biology|Lifetime achievement Award

RESEARCHER at MARRELLI HEALTH SRL, Italy.

Dr. Francesco Paduano is the Head of Medical and Molecular Genetics at MARRELLI HEALTH SRL and a researcher at TECNOLOGICA RESEARCH INSTITUTE in Crotone, Italy.He earned his PhD in Molecular Oncology, Experimental Immunology, and Development of Innovative Therapies from the University “Magna Graecia” of Catanzaro in 2012 and completed his specialization in Medical Genetics with highest honors from the same institution in 2022.Dr. Paduano holds five National Scientific Qualifications in fields including Biochemistry, Applied Biology, and Health Sciences.His research focuses on medical genetics, stem cell biology, and cancer research, leading to 58 peer-reviewed articles, four book chapters, and two patents.He serves as a Review Editor for journals such as Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology and Genes, and has received multiple awards, including the international GIANNI BONADONNA Prize for new drugs in oncology.

professional profiles📖

Education 🎓

Specialization in Medical Genetics (2022) – University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro, 70/70 cum laude.PhD in Molecular Oncology, Experimental Immunology & Innovative Therapies (2012) – University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro.State Exam for Biologist Profession (2010) – University of Calabria.Master in Bioinformatics (2006) – University of Milano-Bicocca.Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences (Biomolecular Pathway) (2003) – University of Calabria, 110/110.Scientific High School Diploma (1995) – Liceo Scientifico E. Majorana, Cetraro.

work Experience💼

Head of Medical and Molecular Genetics Section at Marrelli Health SRL (2022–present).Researcher at University of Naples Federico II (2023) – Conducted genetic analyses for postnatal molecular diagnostics in osteogenesis imperfecta.Senior Researcher at Calabrodental S.R.L. (2015–present).Researcher in Oncological and Regenerative Medicine Projects at institutions such as the Italian National Institute for Cancer Research and University Magna Græcia.

Research Focus

Genetic predisposition to hereditary cancers, focusing on BRCA1, BRCA2, TP53.Development of bioactive prostheses and regenerative medicine applications.Analysis of genetic variants in rare diseases.Stem cell research in dental and orthopedic applications.Oncological research, including the role of PTPRJ as a tumor suppressor.

Skills

Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) for genomic panels.Bioinformatics for molecular diagnostics.Cell culture techniques, including 3D organoids.Genetic analysis and molecular diagnostics for rare diseases.Western Blot, PCR, qPCR, and gene expression analysis.Development of biomedical devices and biomaterials.Apoptosis and cell proliferation assays for drug testin.

Awards & Recognitions

Gianni Bonadonna Prize for new drugs in oncology (2013).SIE National Award (2017) for research in endodontic regeneration.Senior Robert Frank Award (2017) for stem cell research in neurodegenerative diseases.TAOBUK da Vinci Award (2022) for innovations in predictive medicine for Parkinson’s disease.

📚Publications to Noted

  • Tatullo, M., Marrelli, M., & Paduano, F. (2015). The regenerative medicine in oral and maxillofacial surgery: the most important innovations in the clinical application of mesenchymal stem cells. International Journal of Medical Sciences, 12(1), 72-77.

  • Paduano, F., Marrelli, M., White, L. J., Shakesheff, K. M., & Tatullo, M. (2016). Odontogenic differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells on hydrogel scaffolds derived from decellularized bone extracellular matrix and collagen type I. PLOS One, 11(2), e0148225.

  • Caruana, A., Savina, D., Macedo, J. P., & Soares, S. C. (2019). From platelet-rich plasma to advanced platelet-rich fibrin: biological achievements and clinical advances in modern surgery. European Journal of Dentistry, 13(2), 280-286.

  • Folini, M., Brambilla, C., Villa, R., Gandellini, P., Vignati, S., Paduano, F., … & Zaffaroni, N. (2005). Antisense oligonucleotide-mediated inhibition of hTERT, but not hTERC, induces rapid cell growth decline and apoptosis in the absence of telomere shortening in human prostate cancer cells. European Journal of Cancer, 41(4), 624-634.

  • Marrelli, M., Paduano, F., & Tatullo, M. (2013). Cells isolated from human periapical cysts express mesenchymal stem cell-like properties. International Journal of Biological Sciences, 9(10), 1070-1078.

  • Marrelli, M., Codispoti, B., Shelton, R. M., Scheven, B. A., Cooper, P. R., Tatullo, M., & Paduano, F. (2018). Dental pulp stem cell mechanoresponsiveness: effects of mechanical stimuli on dental pulp stem cell behavior. Frontiers in Physiology, 9, 1685.

  • Paduano, F., Marrelli, M., Amantea, M., Rengo, C., Rengo, S., Goldberg, M., & Tatullo, M. (2017). Adipose tissue as a strategic source of mesenchymal stem cells in bone regeneration: a topical review on the most promising craniomaxillofacial applications. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 18(10), 2140.

  • Paduano, F., Villa, R., Pennati, M., Folini, M., Binda, M., Daidone, M. G., & Zaffaroni, N. (2006). Silencing of survivin gene by small interfering RNAs produces supra-additive growth suppression in combination with 17-allylamino-17-demethoxygeldanamycin in prostate cancer cells. Molecular Cancer Therapeutics, 5(1), 179-186.

  • Conclusion

    Based on his exceptional research, technological contributions, and academic impact, Dr. Paduano is highly suitable for a Lifetime Achievement Award in Medical Research and Biotechnology. His work in oncology, genetics, and regenerative medicine has significantly shaped the field, making him a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.