Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) doctoral students Kim Dae-yun (Department of Polymer -Nano Science &Technology) and Bae Cheol-hyun (Department of Dentistry) have been selected for the Global Ph.D. Fellowship, a program supported by the Ministry of Education and the National Research Foundation of Korea to cultivate world-class researchers.

Through this selection, Kim Dae-yun will conduct the research project 'Synthesis and Coating of Novel Birefringent Supramolecules and Manufacture of Polarizing Films Capable of Patterning.' The research aims to develop a new organic material that can polarize light at a specific concentration for the development of flexible displays. As most polarizing films used in flexible display development are currently imported, this research is expected to pave the way for domestic production of polarizing films.

Also selected, Bae Cheol-hyun will carry out the research project 'Molecular-Genetic Mechanisms Regulating Cementum Formation.' Studying the causes and processes by which the cementum covering the tooth root is formed is expected to yield significant research outcomes for the causes and treatment of periodontal disease.

The Global Ph.D. Fellowship program is a support initiative for incoming domestic doctoral students and students in integrated master's–doctoral programs. It aims to enhance their educational and research capabilities during their degree programs and to lay the foundation for them to grow into world-class researchers.

Selected graduate students will receive scholarships of KRW 2.5 million per month for two years from the National Research Foundation of Korea, totaling KRW 30 million. After two years, additional support may be provided if their research achievements are recognized through evaluation.

Kim Dae-yun said, "I am very pleased to have been selected for the Global Ph.D. Fellowship, as it allows me to focus solely on research without financial concerns," adding, "I will devote myself to high-quality research and use this opportunity as a stepping stone to becoming an internationally recognized outstanding researcher."