Department of Chemistry

Abstract Efficient separation of hydrogen isotopes, especially deuterium (D2), is pivotal for advancing industries such as nuclear fusion, semiconductor processing, and metabolic imaging. Current technologies, including cryogenic distillation and Girdler sulfide processes, suffer from significant limitations in selectivity and cost-effectiveness. Herein, we introduce a novel approach utilizing an imidazolium-based Metal–Organic Framework (MOF), JCM-1, designed to enhance D2/H2 separation through temperature-dependent gate-opening controlled by ion exchange. By substituting NO3− ions in JCM-1(NO3−) with Cl− ions to form JCM-1(Cl−), we precisely modulate the gate-opening threshold, achieving a significant enhancement in isotope selectivity. JCM-1(NO3−) exhibited a D2/H2 selectivity (SD2/H2) of 14.4 at 30 K and 1 bar, while JCM-1(Cl−) achieved an exceptional selectivity of 27.7 at 50 K and 1 mbar. This heightened performance is attributed to the reduced pore aperture and higher gate-opening temperature resulting from the Cl− exchange, which optimizes the selective adsorption of D2. Our findings reveal that JCM-1 frameworks, with their finely tunable gate-opening properties, offer a highly efficient and adaptable platform for hydrogen isotope separation. This work not only advances the understanding of ion-exchanged MOFs but also opens new pathways for targeted applications in isotope separation and other gas separation processes. A research team, jointly led by Professor Hyunchul Oh in the Department of Chemistry at UNIST and Professor Eunsung Lee at Seoul National University, has introduced a novel approach, capable of adjusting the pore size of porous materials in increments of 0.01 nm (10-9 m). This innovative technology efficiently separates deuterium, an isotope of hydrogen that constitutes only 0.015% of the total hydrogen found in nature and shares similar properties with ordinary hydrogen. Deuterium is a crucial resource for applications in nuclear fusion power generation and semiconductor manufacturing, making its efficient separation highly valuable. The research team demonstrated that the pore sizes of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) can be fine-tuned through ion exchange, achieving unprecedented control and significantly enhancing the separation efficiency of deuterium in these materials. To optimize separation efficiency, the researchers illustrated that deuterium and hydrogen can effectively be separated using the precisely adjusted pores of a newly developed MOF. It is essential to finely calibrate the pore size, which acts as a molecular sieve. Given that both hydrogen and deuterium are approximately 0.3 nm in size, achieving precise modifications at the 0.01 nm scale is critical. Figure 1. A schematic diagram representing the summary of the study. Gate-opening control via anion exchange in JCM-1 enables enhanced hydrogen isotope separation through precise tuning of pore aperture and diffusion barriers. The dynamic interplay between structural flexibility and adsorption energetics maximizes D2/H2 selectivity, establishing a robust platform for cryogenic gas separation applications. The researchers successfully reduced the pore inlet size of the JCM-1 MOF from about 0.39 nanometers to 0.36 nanometers by replacing nitrate ions (NO₃⁻) with chloride ions (Cl⁻). Their analysis revealed that Cl⁻ induces a stronger inward pull on the outer framework connected to the pore, resulting in a smaller pore size. As a result of this modification, the selectivity for deuterium separation in JCM-1 (Cl⁻) increased significantly from 14.4 to 27.7, effectively doubling the efficiency compared to JCM-1 (NO₃⁻). Notably, JCM-1 (NO₃⁻) exhibited selectivity nine times greater than the conventional cryogenic distillation method at 24K (-249.15°C), while JCM-1 (Cl⁻) demonstrated over 18 times higher selectivity than that method. Professor Oh, the lead investigator, stated, "This achievement offers a novel approach to precisely controlling the nanopore sizes of porous materials, with potential applications not only in isotope separation but also in various gas separation processes." Their findings have been published in Angewandte Chemie International Edition (Impact Factor: 16.1) on February 12, 2025. This research was funded by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) and the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT). Journal Reference Hyunlim Kim, Younggyu Seo, Jaewoo Park, et al., "A Gate-Opening Control Strategy via Nitrate–Chloride Anion Exchange for Enhanced Hydrogen Isotope Separation in Metal–Organic Frameworks," Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., (2025).

Abstract Anion–π interactions are crucial in various biological processes, such as enzyme catalysis and ion transport. Despite their significance, the exploitation of anion–π interactions in synthetic polymer systems remains underexplored. This study investigates anion–π interactions using chemically well-defined peptidomimetics guided by the composition of mussel foot proteins. Specifically, polyether-based polymers were designed utilizing two functional epoxide monomers—catechol acetonide glycidyl ether and 4,4-dimethyl-2-oxazoline glycidyl ether—to mimic the key amino acids 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine and aspartic acid, respectively. A surface forces apparatus was employed to study the anion–π interaction between the polymers, considering the effects of relative monomer composition and pH conditions. The maximum cohesion energy of 15.0 mJ/m2 was observed at an equimolar monomer composition at pH 7. Incorporating a phenyl group instead of the catechol group and introducing competing anions confirmed the dominant role of anion–π interactions. This study highlights the significance of anion–π interactions, posing a high potential in the design and synthesis of functional materials. A research team, led by Professor Dong Woog Lee from the Department of Chemistry at UNIST, in collaboration with Professor Byeong-Su Kim from the Department of Chemistry at Yonsei University, has discovered that the synergistic anion–π interactions serves as a key principle in enhancing the cohesion of synthetic polymers. In this groundbreaking study, the researchers developed an epoxy monomer-based polymer that mimics the structural features of mussel foot proteins and experimentally demonstrated that anion–π interactions are pivotal in strengthening polymer cohesion. Figure 1. (Top) Representative examples of anion–π interactions exploited in natural and synthetic systems and (Bottom) the peptidomimetic system explored in this study. l Image Credit: Department of Chemistry, Yonsei University Anion–π interactions are non-covalent bonds formed between negatively charged molecules (anions) and the π electron systems of aromatic rings. While these interactions are known to play critical roles in biological processes such as enzyme catalysis and ion transport, research exploring their application in synthetic polymers remains scarce. Inspired by mussels, which exhibit remarkable adhesive properties in natural environments, the research team focused on the plantar proteins of these organisms. Through an analysis of the key components contributing to their strong binding capabilities, the scientists found that the structural characteristics of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) and aspartic acid are particularly significant. To advance their findings, the research team designed functional monomers that replicate these structural features, leading to the synthesis of a novel polymer. This work proposes a new design methodology for polymers, taking into account the complex intermolecular interactions present in biological systems. Specifically, the monomer that emulates the DOPA structure provides the π-electronic field of the aromatic ring, while the monomer representing aspartic acid introduces the anion necessary for anion–π interactions within the polymer framework. Furthermore, the team employed a surface force apparatus (SFA) to quantitatively analyze the cohesiveness of the polymer under various conditions. The team compared the cohesion of the polymer in neutral environments, where its functional groups are ionized, against acidic conditions, where they remain non-ionized. Their findings revealed that in neutral environments, anion–π interactions serve as the principal binding force, significantly enhancing polymer cohesion. In contrast, under acidic conditions, hydrogen bonding dominates, resulting in comparatively weaker cohesion. This study marks the first experimental evidence highlighting the decisive role of anion–π interactions in reinforcing cohesion among synthetic polymers. The implications of these findings open avenues for innovative polymer design strategies applicable in diverse fields, including adhesives, self-assembly systems, catalysts, and drug delivery. This research was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) and the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT). The findings of this study were published in the online version of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) on February 6, 2025. Journal Reference Seunghyun Lee, Aram Shin, Jinwoo Park, et al., "Synergistic anion–π interactions in peptidomimetic polyethers," PNAS, (2025).

Abstract Entropy-driven strategy enables the systematic design of complex systems by using entropy as a quantifiable design parameter for the degree of mixing. In this study, we present mixed-linker zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs), sod-ZIF-1 series, that features two types of six-membered rings (6MRs) with aperture sizes of 3.4 Å and 1.7 Å. By adjusting the configurational entropy, the ratio of these 6MRs can be systematically controlled, which significantly influences adsorptive properties, particularly improving the H2 affinity about 3 times throughout the series. This results in the significant enhancement of retention times in dynamic separation of hydrogen isotopes (D2/H2), even over LNG liquefaction temperature. This approach to entropy-driven pore engineering provides new opportunities for enhancing gas adsorption and separation processes. A research team, affiliated with UNIST has successfully developed a new porous material for the efficient separation of deuterium, a primary fuel for nuclear fusion. The team, jointly led by Professors Wonyoung Cho and Hyunchul Oh in the Department of Chemistry at UNIST, announced this breakthrough online in the January 2025 issue of Angewandte Chemie International Edition, a leading chemistry journal. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are a form of porous and crystalline materials constructed by the formation of chemical bonds between metal ions and organic ligands. A MOF separates the heavy hydrogen isotope deuterium from ordinary hydrogen, just like grain sieves that detect millet and other grains for screening and grading. The newly-developed MOF exhibits remarkable efficiency in deuterium separation, even at temperatures above the liquefied natural gas (LNG) liquefaction temperature (111K, -162.15°C). This is a significant improvement over the traditional method, which requires much colder cryogenic temperatures below 20K (-253.15°C). Figure 1. Entropy-based porous material design strategy. As entropy increases, the proportion of narrow pore entrances increases. The team employed an entropy-driven design strategy to create this new material. By mixing different organic ligands, similar to creating a cocktail, they increased the structural disorder, or entropy, within the MOF. This high-entropy state optimized the process of quantum sieving, which separates hydrogen and deuterium based on their differing diffusion rates. Quantum sieving exploits the differences in diffusion rates between hydrogen and deuterium. This results in a higher proportion of narrow pores in the framework, thereby improving the efficiency of the quantum sieving. The team confirmed this through X-ray diffraction and hydrogen isotope breakthrough experiments. According to Professor Cho, "This study marks the first application of high-entropy porous materials for gas separation and adsorption, confirming the potential of entropy-based design." He adds, "We hope this technology will contribute to the use of clean energy resources and the development of future energy technologies." The research team included Joohan Nam as the first author, alongside contributions from Changheon Cho, Yeongjin Kim, Yejin Hong, Sohyeon Lee, Sungyeop Jung, and Minji Jung. This study has been supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), the Information and Communication Planning and Evaluation Institute (IITP), and UNIST. Journal Reference Joohan Nam, Changhyeon Cho, Sungyeop Jung, et al., "High-Entropy Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks for Dynamic Hydrogen Isotope Separation," Angew. Chem. Int. Ed.,(2024).

The '2025 Korean Chemistry Olympiad Winter School,' hosted by the Department of Chemistry at UNIST, concluded successfully, fostering a new generation of talented young chemists. About 52 first- and second-year high school students from across the country participated in the program, demonstrating exceptional enthusiasm and dedication to the study of chemistry. The winter school was a crucial step in selecting the Korean representative for the prestigious International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO). The 2025 Winter School consisted of two stages, providing a comprehensive learning experience for the students. The first stage, held from Janurary 6 to 10, offered in-depth chemistry theory lectures for first-year high school students. The second stage, which took place from January 12 to 18, brought all participating students together on the UNIST campus for an immersive six-day program, featuring hands-on experiments and lectures in various fields, including physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, and inorganic chemistry. A notable highlight of the winter school was the rigorous evaluation process, which assessed students' knowledge and skills through interim, final, and experimental evaluations. Outstanding sophomore students who excelled in these assessments were awarded the opportunity to represent Korea at the International Chemistry Olympiad. The completion ceremony, held on January 18, was attended by distinguished guests, including President Phil Ho Lee of the Korean Chemical Society (KCS) and Chairman Hyeon Jeong of the Chemical Olympiad Committee, who offered words of encouragement and inspiration to the students. "We hope that our students will continue to challenge themselves and explore new knowledge, building on the foundation they established during the winter school," said Department Head Jaeheung Cho of the Department of Chemistry at UNIST, who also serves as the President of the 2025 Winter School. "Looking forward, we hope to cultivate a future generation of scientists who will harness the power of science to make a positive impact on society." The 2025 Korean Chemistry Olympiad Winter School was made possible through the generous support of the Korean Chemical Society (KCS), the Korea Foundation for Science and Creativity (KOSAC), and LG Chem Ltd. The UNIST faculty and the Korean Chemistry Olympiad Committee played a crucial role in designing and delivering a high-quality educational program, providing students with a unique opportunity to grow and develop their skills in a supportive and stimulating environment.

Abstract Autophagy is a crucial quality control mechanism that degrades damaged cellular components through lysosomal fusion with autophagosomes. However, elevated autophagy levels can promote drug resistance in cancer cells, enhancing their survival. Downregulation of autophagy through oxidative stress is a clinically promising strategy to counteract drug resistance, yet precise control of oxidative stress in autophagic proteins remains challenging. Here, a molecular design strategy of biocompatible neutral Ir(III) photosensitizers is demonstrated, B2 and B4, for precise reactive oxygen species (ROS) control at lysosomes to inhibit autophagy. The underlying molecular mechanisms for the biocompatibility and lysosome selectivity of Ir(III) complexes are explored by comparing B2 with the cationic or the non-lysosome-targeting analogs. Also, the biological mechanisms for autophagy inhibition via lysosomal oxidation are explored. Proteome analyses reveal significant oxidation of proteins essential for autophagy, including lysosomal and fusion-mediator proteins. These findings are verified in vitro, using mass spectrometry, live cell imaging, and a model SNARE complex. The anti-tumor efficacy of the precise lysosomal oxidation strategy is further validated in vivo with B4, engineered for red light absorbance. This study is expected to inspire the therapeutic use of spatiotemporal ROS control for sophisticated modulation of autophagy. A research team, affiliated with UNIST has unveiled an innovative technology to eliminate drug-resistant cancer cells using light. Professors Tae-Hyuk Kwon and Duyoung Min from the Department of Chemistry at UNIST, alongside Professor Taiho Park from POSTECH, have created a photoreactive compound capable of suppressing autophagy in cancer cells—one of the key mechanisms contributing to resistance against anticancer therapies. Cancer cells are known for their remarkable adaptability, posing significant challenges in the development of effective treatments. One of their survival strategies is autophagy, a process in which cells degrade and recycle waste products. This mechanism not only allows cancer cells to expel anticancer drugs but also provides them with energy by repurposing the waste materials, thereby evading immune detection. To combat this autophagy, the research team designed a photoreactive compound that integrates morpholine and iridium. Morpholine selectively targets cell lysosomes, the organelles where autophagy occurs, while iridium activates upon exposure to light to induce oxidative damage. Figure 1. Schematic illustration of the dual role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in autophagy. In preclinical studies, when this photoreactive compound was administered to mice with drug-resistant pancreatic cancer and subsequently exposed to infrared light, the results were striking. The resistant pancreatic cancer tissues diminished significantly, with complete tumor eradication observed within just seven days. Analysis revealed that the compound, upon light activation, disrupted the lysosomal membrane and prevented its fusion with autophagosomes—structures responsible for isolating cellular waste. The research team noted that they plan to investigate additional proteins involved in this oxidative damage process. Mingyu Park from the Department of Chemistry served as the lead researcher on this study, with O2Medi Co., Ltd. conducting assessments of toxicity and anticancer efficacy using an animal model. Professor Kwon remarked, "This groundbreaking approach to targeting autophagy could significantly enhance treatment options for major intractable cancers that exhibit drug resistance." He added, "We are also exploring the efficacy of combination therapies that incorporate existing anticancer agents alongside gemcitabine." Their findings have been published in the Advanced Science on January 13, 2025. This study has been supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), the National Cancer Center (NCC), the Korea Technology and information Promotion Agency for SMEs, the Korea Innovation Foundation, and UNIST. Journal Reference Mingyu Park, Jung Seung Nam, Taehyun Kim, et al., "Rational Design of Biocompatible Ir(III) Photosensitizer to Overcome Drug-Resistant Cancer via Oxidative Autophagy Inhibition," Adv. Sci., (2025).

Abstract Oxidative modifications can disrupt protein folds and functions, and are strongly associated with human aging and diseases. Conventional oxidation pathways typically involve the free diffusion of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which primarily attack the protein surface. Yet, it remains unclear whether and how internal protein folds capable of trapping oxygen (O2) contribute to oxidative damage. Here, we report a hidden pathway of protein damage, which we refer to as O2-confined photooxidation. In this process, O2 is captured in protein cavities and subsequently converted into multiple ROS, primarily mediated by tryptophan residues under blue light irradiation. The generated ROS then attack the protein interior through constrained diffusion, causing protein damage. The effects of this photooxidative reaction appear to be extensive, impacting a wide range of cellular proteins, as supported by whole-cell proteomic analysis. This photooxidative mechanism may represent a latent oxidation pathway in human tissues directly exposed to visible light, such as skin and eyes. A research team, consisting of Professors Duyoung Min, Tae-Hyuk Kwon, and Seung Kyu Min from the Department of Chemistry at UNIST, announced that they have identified a novel pathway through which blue light can damage cellular proteins. Blue light, which emanates from sunlight, LED-based display devices, and indoor lighting, is a form of high-energy visible light that is not effectively blocked by standard sunscreen. This type of light can penetrate the cornea and lens of the eye, reaching the retina. Upon reaching the body, blue light is known to induce oxidative damage to cellular proteins, which can adversely affect skin and eye health. When dissolved oxygen in the body absorbs blue light, it is transformed into highly reactive oxygen species (ROS). This ROS can oxidize and damage the protein surface by infiltrating between proteins within cells. Fortunately, the intracellular antioxidant system can mitigate this protein damage by neutralizing ROS. Figure 1. Proposed pathway of O2-confined photooxidation. However, the protein damage pathway discovered by the research team occurs within protein cavities that are beyond the reach of the antioxidant system. In this mechanism, oxygen trapped in these cavities interacts with specific amino acids and absorbs blue light energy, converting it into ROS. The resulting ROS then diffuses through the protein cavity, ultimately leading to protein damage. The research team conceptualized this pathway based on the structural properties of proteins. Proteins possess complex structures in which amino acid chains are intricately folded, creating numerous spaces that can capture small molecules. A variety of experiments, calculations, statistical analyses, and bioinformatics approaches were employed to substantiate their findings from multiple perspectives. This novel pathway of protein damage has been designated the "oxygen-defined photooxidation pathway." Professor Min stated, "We have discovered a new protein damage pathway that is fundamentally different from the conventional mechanisms of protein damage, and we have demonstrated that it can universally affect proteins throughout the cell." He further explained, "This newly identified protein damage pathway may represent a hidden principle contributing to aging or disease processes in skin and eye tissues due to blue light exposure." The research findings were published in the December 2024 issue of Nature Communications. The work was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) and UNIST. Journal Reference Seoyoon Kim, Eojin Kim, Mingyu Park, et al., "Hidden route of protein damage through oxygen-confined photooxidation," Nat. Comm., (2024).

Abstract Nanothermometry in in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is useful for comprehending the functioning mechanisms of the heterogeneous matter through real-time observations. Herein, we introduce a Boltzmann-distribution-driven cathodoluminescence (CL) nanothermometry for in situ local temperature probing in TEM. The population distribution across the close-lying Stark sublevels of dysprosium ions in an yttrium vanadate matrix follows the Boltzmann distribution, enabling the use of the CL-intensity ratio as a thermometry over a wide temperature range of 103–435 K with a relative sensitivity exceeding 3% K–1 and precision of ±2%. Superior to other CL-based thermometries, the present approach is independent of electron–beam parameters and dopant concentration, extending the robustness and applicability of CL-based nanothermometry in electron microscopy. We further demonstrate the real-time mapping of the temperature distribution across a TEM grid under laser irradiation. Technological advancements in the simultaneous observation of ultrafine structures and temperature changes in materials are paving the way for the development of advanced materials. This innovation is expected to facilitate the analysis of the correlation between specific structures and the thermodynamic properties of samples. A research team, led by Professor Oh-Hoon Kwon in the Department of Chemistry at UNIST announced the development of a versatile nanothermometer, capable of accurately measuring the temperature of micro-samples in transmission electron microscopy (TEM). This newly-designed nanothermometer measures temperature by analyzing the cathodoluminescence (CL) spectrum emitted by nanoparticles that serve as thermometers when subjected to an electron beam. In TEM, the electron beam acts as a source of illumination for observing the microstructure of a sample and is also employed for temperature measurements. While previously developed nanothermometers could be used alongside in situ TEM for observing microstructure changes, they required adjustments based on the strength of the electron beam, which posed significant challenges to researchers. Figure 1. Schematic image describing the basic principle of temperature measurement of the developed nanothermometer. In this study, the research team enhanced the reliability and versatility of the thermometer by selecting different nanothermometer materials. They chose dysprosium ions (Dy3+) as the active material for cathode ray emission, allowing for improved performance. Researcher Won-Woo Park, the lead author of the study, explained, "The distribution of quantum states in the CL spectrum of Dy³⁺ follows a Boltzmann distribution that is solely dependent on temperature, regardless of the strength of the electron beam." The Boltzmann distribution is a statistical distribution that describes the phenomenon by which the proportion of high-energy quantum states increases with rising temperature. The research team incorporated Dy3+ into yttrium vanadate (YVO4), a material capable of withstanding the high energy of the electron beam, to synthesize nanothermometer particles measuring 150 nm. When evaluated over a temperature range from -170°C to 50°C, the measurement error of the developed thermometer was within approximately 4°C. Figure 2. Figure 6. In situ temperature measurements under laser heating. Additionally, the team successfully raised the temperature by irradiating the sample with a laser beam and tracked the spatial distribution of temperature changes. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of the technology for simultaneously observing temperature and structural changes in real time due to external stimuli. Professor Kwon remarked, "By redesigning the material for the nanothermometer, we have significantly improved the reliability of temperature measurements and enhanced versatility." He added, "This innovation will also contribute to the development of temperature-sensitive secondary battery materials and display materials for charging and discharging applications." The study was co-authored by Dr. Pavel K. Olshin, the primary author, and Professor Ye-Jin Kim, a UNIST graduate appointed to the Department of Chemistry at Seoul National University last year, as a co-author. The research findings were published in the December 2024 issue of ACS Nano, a prestigious journal in the nanotechnology field. The work was supported by the Samsung Future Technology Promotion Project and the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF). Journal Reference Pavel K. Olshin, Won-Woo Park, Ye-Jin Kim, et al., "Boltzmann-Distribution-Driven Cathodoluminescence Thermometry in In Situ Transmission Electron Microscopy," ACS Nano, (2024).

Abstract Paper crafts, such as origami and kirigami, have become an interdisciplinary research theme transportable from art to science, and further to engineering. Kirigami-inspired architectural design strategies allow the establishment of three-dimensional (3D) mechanical linkages with unprecedented mechanical properties. Herein, we report a crystalline zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF), displaying folding mechanics based on a kirigami tessellation, originated from the double-corrugation surface (DCS) pattern. Pressure- and guest-induced responses demonstrate the kirigami mechanism of the ZIF, wherein imidazolate linkers act as hinges, controlling pore dimensionality, resembling the check valve-adapted mechanical manifold. This discovery of the kirigami tessellation inside a flexible ZIF reveals foldable mechanics at the molecular level. The inspiration for this work stems from the elegant simplicity of folding paper—a concept that led researchers to explore the possibility of replicating this flexibility at the molecular level. After extensive experimentation, they unveiled foldable molecular paths capable of react dynamically to their environment. Led by Professor Wonyoung Choe in the Department of Chemistry at UNIST, the research team achieved a significant breakthrough in this field. They developed foldable molecular paths using zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs), a type of highly porous material. These frameworks can adjust their size, shape, and alignment at the nanoscale in response to temperature, pressure, and gas interactions. This unique capability allows them to regulate gas flow in a manner similar to how valves control water flow in pipelines. The team chose ZIFs due to their exceptional flexibility. Unlike traditional materials, the tetrahedral zinc centers within ZIFs function as hinges, enabling the structure to fold and adapt dynamically. Using advanced X-ray diffraction techniques, the researchers observed how the framework responded to various stimuli, showcasing its potential for real-world applications. These materials are not just scientific curiosities—they possess considerable practical potential. They could be employed to create filters that adapt in order to capture harmful gases more efficiently or to design purification systems capable of selectively removing contaminants. The study also highlighted a simplified version of the "Plumber’s Nightmare," a complex pore network, suggesting that the foldable design holds the key to mastering such intricate structures. "This work demonstrates that foldable mechanisms can be realized at the molecular level, paving the way for advanced molecular materials, such as smart adsorbents," said Professor Choe. "We anticipate transformative applications in energy, environmental science, and biomedicine." The findings of this research have been published in Angewandte Chemie International Edition, on November 21, 2024. This study was supported by the National Research Foundation (NRF) of Korea through the Mid-Career Researcher Program and Hydrogen Energy Innovation Technology Development Project, and UNIST. Journal Reference Joohan Nam, Dr. Eunji Jin, Dr. Leila Abylgazina, et al., "Pore Structure Modulation in Kirigamic Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework," Angew. Chem., Int. Ed., (2024).

Professor Jaeheung Cho in the Department of Chemistry at UNIST has been honored with the James Hoeschele AsBIC Award at the 2024 Asian Biological Inorganic Chemistry (AsBIC) Conference, held on December 5, 2024. With this prestigious award, Professor Cho has solidified his position as one of the world's leading researchers in the fields of biological and inorganic chemistry. Professor Cho has been honored with the 2024 James Hoeschele AsBIC Award. The James Hoeschele AsBIC Award recognizes outstanding scientific contributions in biological inorganic chemistry within the Asia-Pacific region. It was established to honor research that integrates chemistry, biology, and medicine, revealing the roles and reaction mechanisms of metal ions in living organisms. Professor Cho has systematically identified the biological roles and reaction processes of metal ion compounds, providing a crucial foundation for understanding various physiological phenomena in living organisms. Notably, his development of vasodilators using transition metal-nitrogen monoxide compounds has garnered international attention and is expected to significantly impact the advancement of treatments related to vascular health care within the medical industry. In response to receiving the award, Professor Cho stated, "This recognition reflects the long-standing efforts and dedication of my research team and me," adding, "We will continue to pursue innovative research in the field of biological and inorganic chemistry in the future."

On December 6, 2024, the Office of Student Affairs hosted the 2024 Student Achievement Awards Ceremony, honoring fourteen outstanding students whose academic accomplishments and community service initiatives have made a significant impact on both the campus and the wider community. At the ceremony, the recipients reflected on their efforts and achievements while expressing their commitment to future challenges and personal growth. Ho Jin Eom (Department of Mechanical Engineering), RuMi Lee (School of Energy and Chemical Engineering), JiEun Heo (School of Energy and Chemical Engineering), Hyon Jin Jo (Department of Computer Science and Engineering), Hyon Jeong (Department of Biomedical Engineering), Ji Hyun Ko (Department of Chemistry), Minsung Kho (Department of Mathematical Sciences), Ji Won Yang (School of Business Administration), Gi Han Kim (School of New UNISTars), JunYoung Chang (School of New UNISTars), Orane Farrah Rahcine (School of Business Administration), Ahyoung Choi (Department of Design), and MinHwan Kim (Department of Industrial Engineering). This prestigious award is conferred upon students who have demonstrated exceptional character and have enhanced the reputation of the university. Candidates recommended by each college and administrative department underwent meticulous review by the Student Scholarship Guidance Committee before final selection. The awardees excelled across various fields, including engineering, information technology, biotechnology, natural sciences, business administration, and design. Notably, students recommended by the School of New UNISTars, International Center, Student Residence Team, and Business Incubation Center were also recognized. Several recipients positively influenced society through teaching and volunteer activities focused on supporting vulnerable populations, including community welfare centers for individuals with disabilities and youth shelters in Ulsan. Orane Farrah Rahcine from the Department of Business Administration was also honored at the ceremony. In particular, Orane Farrah Rahcine from the Department of Business Administration made noteworthy contributions in creating a global campus environment by assisting international students in adapting to life in Korea and fostering exchanges with domestic students. Dean Young-Choon Kim of the Office of Student Affairs remarked at the ceremony, "We are all interconnected, and we always live with the support of others. Today's winners exemplify a profound understanding of and commitment to the value of helping others." He further added, "Their generosity of spirit will undoubtedly serve them well in life." The Office of Student Affairs annually selects approximately ten recipients to celebrate their passion and achievements. The ceremony concluded with renewed motivation for the awardees to develop into scientists and leaders who contribute to enhancing human life beyond their academic pursuits. Below are the 2024 Student Achievement Awards Honorees: RuMi Lee (School of Energy and Chemical Engineering) JiEun Heo (School of Energy and Chemical Engineering) Hyon Jin Jo (Department of Computer Science and Engineering) Hyon Jeong (Department of Biomedical Engineering) Ji Hyun Ko (Department of Chemistry) Minsung Kho (Department of Mathematical Sciences) Ji Won Yang (School of Business Administration) Gi Han Kim (School of New UNISTars) JunYoung Chang (School of New UNISTars) Orane Farrah Rahcine (School of Business Administration) Ahyoung Choi (Department of Design) MinHwan Kim (Department of Industrial Engineering)