Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) G-Lamp Project Group (Director Lee Jeong-hwan) has been organizing special lectures and university laboratory experience programs to introduce the value of basic science and the potential of advanced science and technology to future scientific talent, thereby contributing to the cultivation of regional scientific personnel.

The Project Group recently visited Jeonju Yeongsaeng High School and held a special lecture for students on "gene-editing technologies that cut and paste genes," providing an opportunity to deepen understanding of advanced life science technologies and to explore future career paths.

At the lecture, Director Lee Jeong-hwan of the G-Lamp Project Group (Professor, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Science, JBNU) delivered the presentation in person. He introduced the concept and discovery process of gene-editing technologies and the main types of such techniques at a level accessible to the students.

From a plant scientist's perspective, he then explained how gene-editing technologies are applied in plant research and variety improvement and how they differ from conventional breeding techniques, clearly conveying the practical applicability of advanced life science technologies.

In particular, through actual application cases of gene-editing technologies—such as improving pest and disease resistance, enhancing functional components, and developing varieties to respond to climate change—he presented the role that science and technology can play in addressing future food challenges and supporting sustainable agriculture.

Beyond lecture-centered programs, the Project Group also operates a 'LAB Tour program' so that local high school students can directly experience the university's real education and research environment.

The LAB Tour program is a field-oriented educational program designed for high school students to visit university laboratories, experience research sites, and communicate directly with researchers to broaden their academic understanding. It is structured to provide practical support for major selection and career planning rather than serving as a simple tour.

The program includes laboratory tours, demonstrations of advanced research equipment, and researcher mentoring. For each participating high school, the Project Group connects students with research laboratories participating in the G-Lamp Project to provide tailored hands-on experiences, allowing students to observe university research up close and to explore specific academic fields suited to them.

Director Lee Jeong-hwan said, "Basic science is the foundation of the core technologies that will drive future industry and society. Through the special lectures and laboratory experiences, I hope students will cultivate their curiosity about science and take concrete steps toward realizing their dreams as future researchers."

Meanwhile, the G-Lamp Project Group plans to continue the basic science lectures by visiting Jeonju Geunyoung Girls' High School on August 26. The Project Group intends to continuously expand education and outreach programs that engage regional youth, spreading the value of basic science and working to nurture future scientific talent.