College of Natural Sciences

Abstract Quantized charge pumping in one-dimensional chiral wires has been widely studied in the context of topological physics in (1 + 1)-dimensional synthetic space, yet the role of orbital and spin degrees of freedom remains largely unexplored. Here, we show that topological charge pumping in insulating chiral systems intrinsically generates orbital and spin polarization, providing a new perspective on spin-selective transport in chiral materials, often associated with chirality-induced spin selectivity. Using time-dependent Schrödinger dynamics of multiorbital tight-binding models driven by circularly polarized light, we identify two key results. First, the screw-like geometry enables a single-parameter topological charge pumping. Second, while the energy gap remains open throughout the pumping cycle, Berry phase driven dynamics induces nonequilibrium orbital polarization. Through spin–orbit coupling, this orbital response is partially converted into spin polarization. By analogy between synthetic (1 + 1)- and two-dimensional topological insulators, we suggest that nontrivial spin–orbital dynamics may accompany anomalous quantum charge Hall states. A new theoretical study has demonstrated that a spiral-shaped nanowire can function as a quantum pump—transferring electrons in precise, quantized amounts. This discovery reveals a novel approach to controlling charge flow at the nanoscale, grounded in the topological properties of the material. Led by Professor Noejung Park of the Department of Physics at UNIST, in collaboration with researchers at Pennsylvania State University, the team shows that a one-dimensional, screw-like chiral material can generate a topological charge pump. During this process, the system also produces orbital angular momentum and spin polarization, unveiling new connections between topology and quantum transport. The concept draws inspiration from the ancient Greek Archimedean screw, a device used to lift water through rotation. In the quantum realm, a similar structure—an electron traveling along a spiral nanowire—can induce directed charge flow by cyclically modulating its quantum states. Unlike conventional currents driven by voltage, this effect involves gradually varying system parameters to achieve a quantized transfer of electrons with each cycle, fundamentally linked to the topological nature of the material. First proposed by Nobel laureate David Thouless in 1983, topological charge pumping enables electrons to move in discrete steps without applying an external voltage. While this phenomenon has been realized in various engineered systems, the current work demonstrates that a simple modulation of the electric field's direction in a chiral nanowire is sufficient to produce quantized charge transport. This insight simplifies the pathway toward practical topological devices, eliminating the need for multiple control parameters previously deemed necessary. Using advanced time-dependent simulations of multiorbital models and density functional theory calculations, the researchers examined electrons in spiral hydrocarbons and selenium nanowires. They found that as electrons are pumped along the wire, orbital angular momentum becomes dynamically polarized. In selenium nanowires, a portion of this orbital polarization converts into spin polarization via spin-orbit coupling, establishing a topological mechanism akin to the chirality-induced spin selectivity (CISS) effect. Using advanced time-dependent simulations of multiorbital models and density functional theory calculations, the team examined electrons in spiral hydrocarbons and selenium nanowires. They observed that as electrons are pumped along the wire, orbital angular momentum becomes dynamically polarized. In selenium nanowires, part of this orbital polarization converts into spin polarization via spin-orbit coupling, creating a topological mechanism similar to the chirality-induced spin selectivity (CISS) effect. Professor Park notes, "This work shows that charge, orbital, and spin behaviors are interconnected through a topological process in chiral nanowires. It opens pathways to control these properties electrically at the nanoscale." Published in the May 2026 issue of Nano Letters , the study involved Dr. Esmaeil Taghizadeh Sisakht from UNIST. It was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT), and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE). Journal Reference Esmaeil Taghizadeh Sisakht, Uiseok Jeong, Xiao Jiang, et al ., “Spin and Orbital Angular Momentum Polarization in Thouless Topological Charge Pumping,” Nano Letters, (2026).

Abstract We investigated an epitaxial strategy for fabricating MoS2 light-emitting diodes (LEDs). A full-coverage MoS2 active layer was grown on p-type GaN, and n-type ZnO nanorods were then vertically aligned on the MoS2 to form ap–n junction with negligible damage to the MoS2. All materials have nearly matched hexagonal structures, enabling single-crystal alignment. Although the continuous MoS2 film formed multiple layers (MLs), the ZnO/MoS2/GaN heterostructure yielded favorable optical characteristics of the ML-MoS2, including internal quantum efficiency comparable to that of the single-layer MoS2. The ZnO/MoS2/GaN LED exhibited stable A and B exciton emissions, which implies direct bandgap transition with spin–orbit coupling. Without mechanically exfoliated or transferred 2D films, this epitaxial approach satisfies the key requirements for fabricating 2D-based optoelectronic and quantum light sources. The strength of epitaxy, such as large-scale scalability and multiple quantum-well formation, will further advance 2D optoelectronics, making them more practical and efficient. A research team, affiliated with UNIST has demonstrated a new way to produce light-emitting diodes (LEDs) using atomically thin layers of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2). By growing the material directly on a substrate, they eliminate the need for transferring fragile 2D films—a step that has limited previous efforts to scale and uniformity. Led by Professor Kunook Chung from the Graduate School of Semiconductor Materials and Devices Engineering, the team developed a process to grow high-quality MoS₂ directly on gallium nitride (GaN), then add zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods on top to form a complete p–n junction. This approach simplifies manufacturing and results in consistent, scalable devices. MoS2, a 2D semiconductor capable of emitting visible light at just a few atomic layers, has long promised applications in quantum light sources and integrated photonics. However, traditional fabrication methods involve synthesizing the material separately and then transferring it onto a substrate, which often introduces defects, contamination, and variability. By growing MoS2 directly on GaN, the team avoided these issues. The process begins with depositing GaN, then carefully epitaxially growing MoS2 at high temperature. The ZnO nanorods are subsequently grown vertically on the MoS₂ layer, creating a well-aligned, high-quality heterostructure. These devices emit red light at wavelengths of 630 nm and 705 nm, confirmed through optical testing. The emission features quantum effects like spin–orbit coupling, suggesting potential for quantum photonic applications. Professor Chung explained, “Transfer processes have limited the scalability of 2D LEDs. Our method shows that direct growth can produce uniform, high-quality devices—similar to traditional semiconductor fabrication. This opens the door to large-scale, practical 2D optoelectronics.” He further added, “Further improvements in efficiency could lead to applications such as micro-LED displays or quantum light sources, especially in the red spectrum.” The findings of this research have been featured as the Supplementary Cover of Nano Letters on April 21, 2026. The study has been supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), the Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology (KIAT), and the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Resources (MOTIE). Journal Reference Imasda Rahmatulloh, Daryll JC Dalayoan, Asad Ali, et al ., “Epitaxial n-ZnO/MoS2/p-GaN Heterostructure Light-Emitting Diodes,” Nano Letters, (2026).

Abstract Iterative syntheses—repeating sequences of the same reactions to construct complex molecules—can facilitate the synthesis of specific classes of small molecules with structural redundancies, including acenes. Despite the prevalence of zigzag edges in the structures of acenes, few examples that effectively manipulate the edge configurations of acenes exist. In this study, the rationally designed iterative synthesis of three pentacene derivatives with continuous boron–oxygen bonds at the zigzag edges is reported. The simple and efficient two-step iteration employed ipso iodination with a trimethylsilyl group as the directing group and Suzuki cross-coupling/condensation reactions. Because of the fundamental role of pentacene derivatives in a broad spectrum of electronic applications, these findings are valuable across a diverse range of chemical and physical disciplines. Researchers at UNIST have introduced a new, efficient way to alter the backbone of organic semiconductors, giving researchers finer control over the molecules used in flexible displays, sensors, solar cells, and other electronic devices. Led by Professors Young S. Park and Seung Kyu Min from the Department of Chemistry, the team created an iterative synthesis method that places boron–oxygen bonds along the edge of pentacene, a well-known organic semiconductor made of five fused benzene rings. Organic semiconductors are valued because they are light, flexible, and chemically tunable. Small changes in a molecule's length, shape, or atomic makeup can shift how it absorbs light, emits light, or transports charge. But chemists have usually tuned these materials by attaching groups to the outside of the molecule. Changing the carbon framework itself has remained much harder. The new method works inside that framework. It inserts oxygen and boron atoms into the pentacene backbone, reshaping the molecule rather than simply decorating its edges. Dr. Sunghwa Jung, the study's first author, said the process relies on a repeated two-step cycle. “Each cycle begins with iodination at a specific site, followed by ring closure using a boron reagent,” he said. “By repeating the sequence, we can build pentacene structures with consecutive boron–oxygen bonds along the molecular edge.” By carefully controlling these cycles, the team synthesized three different pentacene derivatives, each with distinct boron–oxygen arrangements. The molecules absorbed and emitted light at different wavelengths, showing that their optical properties could be tuned through structure. All three also showed fluorescence quantum yields above 0.70, a sign of efficient light emission. The results point to possible uses in light-emitting organic semiconductors, fluorescent sensors, and optoelectronic materials that require bright, efficient emission. “This work gives us a stepwise way to build new acene molecules with consecutive boron–oxygen bonds,” Professor Park said. “Because the process can control both molecular length and arrangement, it expands the structures available for organic semiconductor design.” The study was published online in Angewandte Chemie International Edition on April 16, 2026. It was supported by funding from the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE). Journal Reference Seonghwa Jeong, Si-In Kim, Jonghwan Lee, et al., “Iterative Synthesis of Pentacene Derivatives with Continuous Boron–Oxygen Bonds,” Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. , (2026).

Abstract Second-harmonic generation (SHG) in monolayer transition-metal dichalcogenides is highly sensitive to mechanical strain, often leading to signal suppression under deformation. Here, we demonstrate reconfigurable SHG in monolayer MoS2 integrated with plasmonic nanoslits, where localized plasmonic fields counteract strain-induced suppression. The plasmonic nanoslits induce strong spatially localized field enhancement, yielding an SHG enhancement of up to 8000, estimated by normalizing the signal to the illumination area, relative to MoS2 on unpatterned Au films. Applying 1.2% compressive strain increases the SHG intensity by approximately threefold relative to the unstrained state, demonstrating effective strain-enabled modulation. Upon mechanical bending, the SHG response is reversibly modulated and remains stable after an initial preconditioning regime, retaining more than 95% of its initial intensity over repeated bending cycles. This strain-adaptive platform demonstrates robust cycling stability and provides a previously unexplored strategy for dynamically reconfigurable nonlinear metasurfaces, enabling applications in wearable sensors, tunable modulators, and compact frequency converters. A collaborative team from UNIST and Ajou University has unveiled a flexible optical device that generates a stronger light signal when bent. This achievement defies the traditional understanding that mechanical deformation diminishes optical performance, paving the way for advanced wearable sensors and flexible photonic systems. Led by Professors Hyeong-Ryeol Park and Seon Namgung of UNIST Department of Physics, alongside Professor Young-Hwan Ahn at Ajou University, the team engineered a device capable of converting incident light into a shorter wavelength. Unlike conventional devices that depend on bulky, thick materials, this ultra-thin structure employs molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), a two-dimensional semiconductor only a few atoms thick. While bending MoS2 typically weakens its optical signals, the researchers redesigned the architecture to focus electromagnetic energy within nanoscale gaps—merely 20 nanometers wide—that concentrate fields during compression. When bent inward, these gaps are narrow, amplifying the emitted light. On the other hand, when relaxed, they widen, diminishing the signal. This dynamic modulation renders the device both strain-sensitive and capable of real-time optical control. Experimental results demonstrated that compressing the device by approximately 1.2% increased its second-harmonic output—converting 800 nm light to 400 nm—by nearly threefold. Within these nanoscale gaps, the local electromagnetic field exceeds 8,000 times that of a flat MoS₂ film on gold. Notably, the device maintained over 95% of its initial performance even after 190 bending cycles, with minimal material degradation. “This nanoscale design not only enhances the optical signal but also provides inherent protection for the material,” said lead researcher Sobhagyam Sharma from UNIST. “It offers a straightforward approach to developing flexible sensors that respond to mechanical stress through changes in light emission.” Professor Park added, “This innovation lays the groundwork for deformation sensors that operate via optical signals and offers new insights into strain effects on two-dimensional materials.” The findings were published in Science Advances on May 8, supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), the Institute for Information & Communications Technology Planning & Evaluation (IITP), and UNIST. Journal Reference Sobhagyam Sharma, Satyabrat Behera, Byung Hee Son, et al ., “Reconfigurable second-harmonic generation via plasmonic nanoslits counteracting strain-induced suppression in monolayer MoS2,” Sci. Adv., (2026).

Abstract The spin dynamics of electrons in chiral molecular systems remains a topic of intense interest, particularly regarding whether geometric chirality inherently induces spin polarization in current-carrying electrons. In this work, we employ ab initio real-time time-dependent density functional theory (rt-TDDFT) to directly simulate the interplay among charge current, spin, and orbital. This real-time tracking extends beyond perturbative treatments, and we analyze how nonequilibrium currents effectively lift the symmetry constraints of screw rotation and time-reversal symmetry. We find that the emergence of spin and orbital angular momenta is dynamically correlated with a concomitant loss of translational (linear) momentum, which we interpret as an intrinsic consequence of current-driven symmetry lowering. The implications of this mechanism for chirality-induced spin selectivity and spintronics device design are discussed. A new theoretical study shows that simply passing an electric current through chiral, helical materials can generate the intrinsic spin of electrons. Using real-time quantum calculations, researchers tracked how electron motion transforms into spin and orbital angular momentum. Led by Professor Noejung Park from the Department of Physics at UNIST, the team partnered with scientists from the University of Missouri, Pennsylvania State University, and the Max Planck Institute. They simulated electrons flowing through a one-dimensional helical conductor—specifically selenium nanowires—and uncovered the microscopic process behind spin polarization. Electrons carry two types of angular momentum: spin and orbital. Under normal conditions, these cancel out. But in chiral structures, an electric current favors electrons with a specific spin, creating a phenomenon known as chirality-induced spin selectivity (CISS). This effect enables spin control without magnetic fields, promising for spintronic devices. Yet, how current drives this spin polarization remained unclear. The simulations revealed that as electrons move along the helix, their linear momentum converts into orbital angular momentum. This transfer, driven by the current, couples with the electron’s spin via quantum spin-orbit interaction, leading to a net spin polarization. Notably, this process activates only above a certain current threshold and persists even after the electric field is turned off. Professor Park explains, “Our work shows that the flow of current itself creates and sustains spin polarization in chiral conductors. It highlights a fundamental mechanism—orbital angular momentum transfer—that can be harnessed for next-generation spintronic devices operating purely on electrical signals.” The findings were published in ACS Nano on April 23, 2026. The study has been supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grants funded by the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), and by a KIAT grant funded by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE). Journal Reference Uiseok Jeong, Daniel Hill, Esmaeil Taghizadeh Sisakht, et al., "Current-Driven Symmetry Breaking and Spin–Orbit Polarization in Chiral Wires," ACS Nano, (2026).

Abstract The formation of multiple and remote C–C bonds remains highly challenging owing to difficulties in reactivity and selectivity control. Herein, we report a nickel-catalyzed twofold conjunctive cross-electrophile coupling that employs an alkene and a 1,3-enyne as conjunctive platforms and alkyl and aryl halides as coupling partners. Through a philicity-alternating radical relay followed by selective radical capture, the reaction enables the formation of three or more C–C bonds. Combined experimental and theoretical investigations provide a rationale for the sequential radical additions to the π systems and the selective capture of a radical intermediate by the nickel catalyst. Furthermore, a five-component coupling showcases the sequential and controlled addition of alkyl and aryl moieties across three conjunctive units, demonstrating the synthetic versatility of the twofold conjunctive coupling. A joint research team from UNIST and DGIST has developed a new chemical synthesis method that links four different compounds together in a single reaction step, offering a faster and more controllable route to building complex molecules vital for pharmaceuticals and advanced materials. The study, led by Professors Sung You Hong and Jan-Uwe Rohde from the Department of Chemistry, in collaboration with Professors Sangwon Seo and Byunghyuck Jung from DGIST, introduces the first nickel-catalyzed twofold conjunctive cross-electrophile coupling system capable of connecting four distinct chemical building blocks through one controlled reaction sequence. Modern chemical synthesis typically excels at connecting two or three molecular components at a time. Extending those reactions to four or more components has remained difficult because reactive intermediates tend to generate unwanted byproducts or trigger uncontrolled polymerization. The research team addressed this challenge through a carefully engineered radical relay mechanism. In the reaction, highly reactive radical intermediates alternately shift between electrophilic and nucleophilic states, guiding molecules to connect in a precise order and at defined positions. The process functions much like a relay race, with each reaction intermediate triggering the next step in sequence. Nickel catalysts play a central role by generating the initial radical species and selectively capturing intermediates at the final stage, preventing side reactions and maintaining control throughout the synthesis. The method enables sequential coupling among alkyl halides, alkenes, 1,3-enynes, and aryl halides to form multiple carbon-carbon bonds in a single operation. Under modified reaction conditions, the system can even be extended to five-component coupling reactions. The study was co-authored by Ji Hwan Jeon and Da Hye Kim of UNIST as first authors. Beyond the technical advance itself, the researchers say the work opens a new middle ground between traditional small-molecule synthesis used in pharmaceuticals and polymer synthesis used in plastics and materials manufacturing. “This study presents a new strategy for connecting multiple molecular components sequentially within a single reaction system,” the research team explained. “It offers a conceptual bridge between precision organic synthesis and macromolecular chemistry.” Professor Hong said the approach could become a foundational technology for designing complex organic molecules and next-generation functional materials. “The method provides a versatile platform for constructing sophisticated molecular architectures with greater efficiency and control,” he said. The findings of this research were published in Advanced Science on April 9, 2026. The study has been supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) and the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) through the ERC program (Engineering Research Center for Microplastic through Bio/Chemical engineering Convergence Process). Journal Reference Ji Hwan Jeon, Da Hye Kim, Gun Ha Kim, et al ., “Nickel-Catalyzed Twofold Conjunctive Coupling via Philicity-Alternating Radical Relay,” (2026).

Jiyeon Kim, who earned her Combined M.S.-Ph.D. degree in chemistry at UNIST under the supervision of Professor Wonyoung Choe, has been awarded the prestigious Humboldt Research Fellowship from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. Jiyeon Kim, who earned her combined M.S.-Ph.D. degree in chemistry at UNIST under the supervision of Professor Wonyoung Choe, has been awarded the prestigious Humboldt Research Fellowship from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. Dr. Kim is currently a postdoctoral researcher in the group of Professor Bettina Lotsch at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research (MPI-FKF). Beginning next year, she will continue her independent work at the institute through the fellowship, one of Germany’s most internationally respected programs supporting outstanding early-career researchers. The Humboldt Research Fellowship supports exceptional scholars from around the world in conducting independent research at leading German institutions. Fellowship recipients join the global “Humboldtian” academic network, which includes more than 30,000 researchers and numerous Nobel laureates, including Omar Yaghi and Susumu Kitagawa. Dr. Kim entered UNIST in 2013, majoring in chemistry and energy engineering, and completed her doctoral studies in 2024. During her graduate studies, she was selected for Korea’s Global Ph.D. Fellowship program and received the Yebong Best Dissertation Award, one of UNIST’s highest honors for doctoral research. This fellowship follows another major international recognition earlier this year, when Dr. Kim was selected for the Elisabeth Bauser Fellowship at MPI-FKF. Named after the institute’s first female tenured scientist, the fellowship recognizes promising early-career women researchers demonstrating exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential. Her work focuses on advanced materials design and catalyst systems for sustainable energy and carbon-neutral technologies. She has drawn attention for bridging fundamental materials chemistry with catalytic applications, particularly through innovative design strategies involving metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs). Dr. Kim also contributed to the development of the “Up-Down Approach,” a materials design strategy featured in Nature’s Nobel Prize in Chemistry collection. Her research further explores quasiperiodic moiré phenomena and crystallographic materials systems, connecting inorganic chemistry, structural science, and catalytic reaction control. At MPI-FKF, she is extending these approaches toward controlling chemical reactions within porous COF architectures. By engineering nanoscale reaction environments, the research aims to advance next-generation catalyst platforms for carbon dioxide reduction and sustainable energy production. “It is a tremendous honor to pursue independent research in an environment that strongly values scientific autonomy,” Dr. Kim said. “The materials design experience I gained at UNIST has become an important foundation for my current work at the Max Planck Institute.” She also expressed gratitude to Professor Wonyoung Choe and her collaborators in Korea and Germany for their continued mentorship and support, adding that she hopes to further strengthen academic exchange and collaborative research between the two countries through the fellowship. Dr. Kim previously received the Rising Star Award from the International Union of Crystallography at the Asian Crystallographic Association Conference 2024 in recognition of her contributions to innovative materials design strategies in crystallography and framework chemistry.

Abstract Dye-sensitized photoelectrochemical cells hold promise for artificial photosynthesis but face challenges such as low photocurrents and limited stability. To address these limitations, a cascade-type dye-sensitized photoelectrode is developed by encapsulating a dye-sensitized TiO2 layer and redox mediator within platinum-sputtered nickel foil. This buried-junction design enables spatially controlled cascade charge transfer, featuring effective photoconversion and Ni-catalyzed water oxidation, while suppressing undesirable recombination current leakage. Through a comprehensive study involving the selection of redox mediators and water oxidation catalysts, the best-performing photoelectrode for water splitting achieves a photocurrent of 14.0 mA cm−2 at 0.72 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE), a Faradaic efficiency of 98%, and photostability of 30 hours. Moreover, the versatility of our design extends to bias-free H2O2 production, achieving a photocurrent density of 7.83 mA cm−2, a Faradaic efficiency of 92.2%, and a record-high solar-to-fuel efficiency of 4.15% (2.13 µmol min−1 cm−2), with photostability of 150 hours. A research team at UNIST has introduced an innovative dye-sensitized electrode that marks a significant leap in artificial photosynthesis technology. Demonstrating exceptional efficiency and durability, the system can produce hydrogen peroxide solely using sunlight—bringing us closer to sustainable chemical manufacturing. Led by Professor Tae-Hyuk Kwon from the Department of Chemistry and Professor Ji-Wook Jang from the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering, the team developed an electrode that mimics natural electron-transfer processes in plants. The device features an organic dye layer combined with a redox mediator, encapsulated within a nickel foil structure. This configuration facilitates a cascade-like, stepwise electron transfer—from the dye to the mediator, then to the nickel substrate, and ultimately to the catalyst—minimizing charge loss and enhancing stability. Unlike conventional designs with dyes exposed directly to electrolytes, this architecture prevents degradation and significantly prolongs operational lifespan. The electrode achieved a Faradaic efficiency of 98% in water splitting and demonstrated stable performance over 150 hours. When used for sunlight-driven hydrogen peroxide production, it attained a solar-to-fuel efficiency of 4.15%, setting a new global record without requiring external voltage. “By optimizing the electrode interface, we were able to enhance efficiency and durability simultaneously,” explained Professor Kwon. “This environmentally friendly system paves the way for sustainable production of valuable chemicals using solar energy.” According to the research team, this breakthrough addresses core challenges in artificial photosynthesis—namely, efficiency, stability, and environmental safety—paving the path toward scalable, renewable fuel and chemical production. Its simplicity and eco-friendly design hold great promise for future applications in green chemistry and renewable energy. This research was participated by researchers Jun-Hyeok Park, Kyounglim Kim, and Jinyoung Lee as the first co-authors. The findings of this research have been published in Advanced Functional Materials on April 13, 2026. Journal Reference Jun-Hyeok Park, Kyounglim Kim, Jinyoung Lee, et al., "Bias-Free Highly Efficient and Stable Dye-Sensitized Photoelectrochemical Cells via Cascade Charge Transfer," Adv. Funct. Mater., (2026).

UNIST has been selected as a partner institution for a project under Horizon Europe , the European Union (EU)'s flagship research and innovation program, further strengthening the university's expanding global research network. The project, led by the Medical University of Innsbruck (MUI) in Austria, focuses on training next-generation researchers in medical imaging and image-guided therapy. The initiative will run through March 2031 with approximately €1.42 million (KRW 2.2 billion) in EU funding. Participation by non-European institutions in Horizon Europe projects is highly selective. UNIST and the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) were the only two non-European institutions included in the consortium, underscoring UNIST's growing international research competitiveness and strategic role in global scientific collaboration. The project was secured through the participation of Professor Yunho Kim from the Department of Mathematical Sciences at UNIST as a co-investigator and will be conducted in collaboration with MUI. As part of the initiative, doctoral researchers from Innsbruck will be dispatched to UNIST for joint research, creating a sustained framework for both collaborative research and researcher exchange. This selection reflects UNIST's broader efforts to expand participation in Horizon Europe and strengthen international R&D partnerships. In recent years, the university has established a strategic foundation for global collaboration through initiatives including an MOU with TU Wien, expanded support programs for researchers pursuing international grants, and engagement with global R&D experts and institutions. “This participation in a Horizon Europe project demonstrates the growing global competitiveness of UNIST's international research capabilities,” said UNIST President Chong Rae Park. “We will continue to pursue strategic global partnerships that advance world-class research and innovation.” Horizon Europe is the EU's largest research and innovation framework program, supporting collaborative research aimed at advancing future technologies and addressing global societal challenges. The program operates with a budget of approximately €95.5 billion for the 2021–2027 period.

Abstract Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) are leading candidates for next-generation optoelectronics owing to their tuneable bandgaps, narrow emission linewidths, and high luminescence quantum yields. For virtual-, augmented-, and mixed-reality display applications of these materials, patterning full-color QDs at μm-length scales is essential. However, existing photolithographic approaches often degrade QD luminance characteristics by exposing them to harsh processing conditions, or they compromise the structural fidelity of the resulting patterns. Here we report a photoresist-guided indirect (PIN) photopatterning strategy that includes (i) lithographic formation of sacrificial PR patterns, (ii) deposition of a crosslinked QD film on top, and (iii) PR stripping that removes the sacrificial PR, leaving behind crosslinked QD patterns on the substrate. QD crosslinking is mediated by a diazo-based ligand thermocrosslinker, Diazo-4-LiXer. Leveraging low-temperature (110–120 °C)-activated carbene chemistry, Diazo-4-LiXer bridges neighbouring QDs while maintaining their intrinsic photoluminescence and electroluminescence through repeated processing. Moreover, Diazo-4-LiXer enables thermocrosslinking without affecting the underlying photoresist pre-patterns, which serve as structural templates determining the thickness and fidelity of the QD patterns. Using PIN photopatterning, we realize high-fidelity RGB patterns exceeding 4,000 pixels per inch resolution and demonstrate integration-level scalability by fabricating a 10 × 10 passive-matrix full-colour RGB QD–LED array. Researchers, affiliated with UNIST have announced a significant advancement in quantum dot (QD) display technology, enabling ultra-fine, high-resolution patterning of QDs suitable for next-generation XR glasses. This innovation promises brighter, more vivid images even in outdoor environments. Professor BongSoo Kim from the Department of Chemistry at UNIST, in collaboration with Professor Moon Sung Kang of Sogang University and Dr. Chan-mo Kang at Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI), have developed a novel photopatterning technique that maintains the integrity of quantum dots while achieving micron-scale precision. To meet the demanding resolution required for XR displays—exceeding 3,000 pixels per inch (PPI)—the team’s method patterns quantum dots into 2-micrometer (μm) pixels. This enables over 4,000 PPI, meaning more than 10 million pixels can be packed into a space about the size of a coin, ensuring sharp, immersive visuals. The process employs a custom-developed additive, Diazo-4-LiXer, which facilitates thermocrosslinking at low temperatures (110–120°C) via carbene chemistry, preserving the quantum dots’ luminescent properties. It involves creating a sacrificial photoresist (PR) template, depositing a crosslinked quantum dot film, then removing the PR to leave behind precisely patterned quantum dots—without damage or shape distortion. This technique not only achieves high fidelity and density but also enables the fabrication of full-color RGB quantum dot LED arrays, demonstrating its potential for commercial application. Professor Kim commented, “Our method allows for ultra-high resolution patterning of quantum dots while maintaining their exceptional optical properties. It opens new avenues for advanced XR glasses and microdisplays, where brightness, color purity, and resolution are crucial.” The findings of this research have been published in Nature Communications on March 19, 2026. The study has been supported by the Samsung Research Funding & Incubation Center of Samsung Electronics, the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), and the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT). Journal Reference Hyeokjun Kim, Hyobin Ham, Chang Hyeok Lim, et al., "Photoresist-guided indirect photopatterning of quantum dots via carbene-mediated ligand thermocrosslinking," Nat. Commun., (2026).