Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) Semiconductor Chemical Engineering Education Research Center Dr. Choi Jong-won (Division of Chemical Engineering, advisor: Prof. Yoon Young-sang) was selected last year 4th Phase BK21 Project as an outstanding participant and received a Commendation from the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education.

Dr. Choi conducted research at the JBNU Graduate School, supported by BK21 Plus and the 4th Phase BK21 Project, on "metal resource recycling processes that recover metals from various secondary resources through environmentally friendly hydrometallurgical methods and utilize them."

Recognized for the novelty and originality of his research outcomes, he published a total of 30 papers (7 as first author, 23 as co-author), including in the internationally renowned journal <Journal of Hazardous Materials> (top 3.5%, IF 13.6), and achieved 2 patent registrations based on practical technologies and one technology transfer.

After earning his degree, Dr. Choi worked as a postdoctoral researcher at KU Leuven in Belgium and is currently employed as a Senior Researcher at the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources.

Dr. Choi stated, "Under my advisor I learned every stage systematically, from experimental design to manuscript preparation and submission, which allowed me to develop the essential competencies as an independent researcher. Through ongoing research on batteries and the recycling of various secondary resources, I will contribute to the advancement of the nation’s core energy research."

Meanwhile, the 2023 Minister of Education Commendation for Outstanding Participants in the 4th Phase BK21 Project is an award presented to graduate students and early-career researchers participating in education–research centers who have produced outstanding achievements. Among approximately 19,000 master's and doctoral participants across a total of 579 education–research centers, only 29 individuals were selected as recipients of this award.