The Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics (Director, Professor Seong‑guk Eo) received a Minister of Environment Commendation for its contribution to establishing standards for active ingredients in disinfectants intended for human use, based on a study that verified the efficacy of disinfectants against the COVID‑19 virus.

Although the use of hand sanitizers and similar products has increased sharply due to COVID‑19, empirical data on the efficacy of individual disinfectant components has been lacking. As a result, the lists of recommended ingredients vary among countries and institutions depending on their standards.

Accordingly, with the need to verify disinfectant efficacy, determine effective concentrations and recommended contact times, prevent misuse, and provide evidence to propose safe usage methods for humans and the environment, the Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics carried out a commissioned research project titled 'Efficacy Evaluation of Major Disinfectant Ingredients and Approved Products Against the COVID‑19 Virus (SARS‑CoV‑2).'

Through this research project, the institute conducted comprehensive testing on 81 products marketed domestically last year to verify disinfectant efficacy, and based on the results made a significant contribution to establishing standards for active ingredients in disinfectants intended for human use.

Meanwhile, the Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) Institute for Molecular Biology and Genetics operates a facility equipped with Animal Biosafety Level 3. It has signed an MOU with the National Wildlife Management Institute and, through industry–academia–research collaboration, is jointly conducting the study 'Efficacy Evaluation of an Attenuated Candidate Bait Vaccine for African Swine Fever' to commercialize an African swine fever vaccine. In cooperation with the National Wildlife Disease Management Institute, it is working to protect wild boar and to control African swine fever.