□ Professor Hongsoo Choi from the Department of Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science & Technology (DGIST; President Kunwoo Lee) was selected by the Ministry of Science and ICT (Minister Sangim Yoo) for one of 2024’s Top 100 Outstanding National R&D Achievements.
□ The Top 100 Outstanding National R&D Achievements is a program created to publicize achievements in science and technology as a driving force for national development, to increase public interest, and to inspire the pride of scientists and engineers. This program, which selects outstanding R&D achievements recommended by different ministries, marks its 19th anniversary this year. This year, a total of 869 candidates were reviewed and selected by the Selection Evaluation Committee of 100 experts and through public verification.
□ Professor Hongsoo Choi was selected for his outstanding achievements in the category of machinery and materials for Technology Connecting Neural Circuits in the Brain Using Magnetic Nanoparticle-Based Three-Dimensional Cell Sphere Robots. This technology, developed by Professor Choi, is an innovative technology that uses magnetic fields (the force of electromagnets) to move cell aggregates (cell spheres) containing nanoscale magnetic materials to a desired location.
□ His research laid the groundwork for “brain neural circuit engineering,” which uses magnetic fields to transfer nerve cells and connect neural circuits in the brain, and it suggested new potential for neural network repair and treatment for neurological disorders. In particular, his research was noted for selectively connecting cell aggregates containing magnetic materials to specific neural circuits and enabling them to work functionally in animal (rat) experimental settings. It is considered a breakthrough that demonstrates the potential to reconnect damaged neural circuits in the brain.
□ Professor Choi remarked, “I am very pleased to be selected for the Top 100 Outstanding National R&D Achievements, which is highly recognized in the country. I will continue research in relevant fields and dedicate myself to even greater achievements.”
□ Moreover, based on these achievements, Professor Choi was elected as a Fellow of the Korean Academy of Science and Technology and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) in 2025. DGIST provides multifaceted support and continues to expand its research infrastructure and offer a creative and interdisciplinary research environment for researchers to produce innovative achievements, and it is progressing toward becoming an internationally renowned university through domestic and international collaboration.
