Reported by Dr. Hyuna Kim

Publication Director of KSEA Austin TX Chapter

On Friday, September 5, 2025, the KSEA Austin TX Chapter successfully hosted its 42nd Technical Seminar at the University of Texas at Austin. The seminar featured a presentation by Mr. Minsu Zhang, who delivered an engaging lecture on the topic "Brain-computer interface training fosters perceptual skills to detect errors."

Mr. Zhang’s research explores how training with a brain-computer interface (BCI) can enhance human perceptual abilities, particularly in recognizing subtle movement errors that often go unnoticed. Unlike conventional feedback-based training, the BCI provided real-time neural signals indicating when an error was detected. Through this process, participants not only improved their ability to detect small mistakes but also exhibited stronger brain “error awareness” signals. Mr. Zhang emphasized that such training could have broad applications, ranging from surgical precision to everyday tasks where early error detection is critical.

The seminar drew over 20 members in person and welcomed 19 additional participants online, including 17 undergraduate students from Angelo State University. Following the presentation, a lively Q&A session allowed attendees to further discuss the implications of BCI research and its potential future applications.

Towards the end of the event, chapter members expressed their gratitude to Prof. In-Hyouk Song for his dedicated service as President of the KSEA Austin TX Chapter by presenting him with a cake and a large appreciation card filled with heartfelt messages. Prof. Song, in turn, warmly thanked the members for their support and active participation throughout the seminar. Dr. Joonho Sung, the current President of the KSEA Austin TX Chapter, also joined in extending his appreciation to Prof. Song and reaffirmed his commitment to leading the chapter in the year ahead.

After the technical session, participants gathered for a networking dinner, providing an excellent opportunity to continue scientific discussions and strengthen professional connections within the community.

This seminar once again exemplified the chapter’s mission to connect scientists and engineers, promote knowledge exchange, and foster mentorship across disciplines. With the successful conclusion of the 42nd Technical Seminar, the Austin Chapter looks forward to continuing its role as a hub for scientific collaboration and community building.

By In-Hyouk Song

President of Austin TX Chapter

On February 7, 2025, a technical seminar was held at the University of Texas at Austin, hosted in Room 1.120 of the Neural Molecular Science (NMS) Building. The seminar began at 6:30 PM and featured a research presentation by Mr. Jihyeon Yun from Texas State University. The event attracted a total of 33 participants, including 8 online attendees, with 14 new members joining the session.

Mr. Jihyeon Yun presented his research titled "Assessment of Storage Stability in Rubberized Asphalt Binders using Image Processing and Deep Learning Techniques." His study focuses on evaluating the storage stability of Crumb Rubber Modifier (CRM) asphalt binders, which are widely used in sustainable road construction. He addressed the limitations of conventional evaluation methods by providing a detailed quantitative analysis and introduced an innovative approach that integrates image-based storage stability assessment with deep learning techniques. Mr. Yun’s research highlights the potential of artificial intelligence in enhancing accuracy and efficiency in asphalt binder analysis, offering new possibilities for future road construction materials.

During the presentation, Mr. Yun explained how image processing techniques are applied to identify patterns and changes in the binder samples over time. He further demonstrated how deep learning models can analyze large datasets to predict stability outcomes more efficiently than traditional methods. The comprehensive approach proposed in his study has the potential to significantly improve the assessment process for asphalt binders, reducing material waste and construction costs.

The presentation was followed by an engaging Q&A session, where participants actively shared their insights and asked questions about the methodology and findings. Attendees praised Mr. Yun’s innovative use of deep learning and inquired about the practical applications of his research in the construction industry. Mr. Yun provided detailed responses, emphasizing the importance of integrating advanced technologies into traditional engineering fields.

After the seminar, attendees gathered at a nearby restaurant for a networking dinner. The informal gathering allowed participants to continue discussions about the research and explore opportunities for future collaborations. The dinner also served as an excellent opportunity for new members to connect with experienced professionals, fostering a strong sense of community within the group.

Overall, the seminar was a great success, providing valuable insights into the intersection of artificial intelligence and civil engineering materials. The event not only highlighted Mr. Yun’s significant research contributions but also promoted meaningful discussions and networking among participants. The University of Texas at Austin, in collaboration with Texas State University, continues to support such academic exchanges, contributing to advancements in engineering research and fostering connections within the academic and professional communities.

Yejun Na

President of KSEA Angelo State University YG

Angelo State University (ASU) welcomed approximately 25 students to the Spring 2025 Coffee Chat event, organized by the KSEA (Korean-American Scientists and Engineers Association) Austin TX Chapter’s YG Group on February 5th, 2025 from 6:00-7:30 PM. Six YG Group executives, including President Yejun Na, Vice President Myeongjin Seo, Treasurer Bumjun Ko, Project Manager Seungmi Kim, Public Relations Director Jihyun Hong, and Intern Yeongmin Kim, led the session, answering students’ questions and encouraging engagement among participants.

Hosted every semester, the Coffee Chat event seeks to expand KSEA’s reach by connecting with new and exchange students at ASU. This semester’s event provided Starbucks beverages to attendees, creating a welcoming atmosphere for students exploring KSEA membership. The event served as an excellent opportunity for students to learn about KSEA’s networking, volunteer activity opportunities, and professional development offerings. Among 16 new students participating in the event, 13 students decided to sign up for KSEA membership, which is 81.25% membership registration rate.

Yejun Na opened the event with a detailed overview of KSEA, highlighting its purpose, membership benefits, and the wide range of opportunities available to undergraduate students. He emphasized KSEA's role in providing access to networking, research presentations, entrepreneurship seminars, and volunteer activities, which resonated with many students. This event helped students to participate in events with KSEA as part of their academic journey, creating positive experiences and memories.

Following the introductory talk, attendees were divided into three groups. Similar to the previous semester's format, where the event was divided into two groups, this semester, all three groups were split up for more focused discussions. Each group conducted the discussion independently, focusing on elaboration for the events and opportunities that students can participate in this semester, such as Lab Night Event, Austin Chapter Technical Seminar, ASU YG Seminar, and NMSC. Students appreciated the chance to engage directly with experienced KSEA members and described the Q&A sessions as highly informative and insightful.

At this Coffee Chat event, students were particularly interested in the Lab Night event. Lab Night is a volunteer activity that operates a science/engineering experiment booth for elementary and middle school students in the San Angelo community. Students wanted to create meaningful time and memories by participating in an event that helps the next generation grow and develop interest in science/engineering. Students evaluated that the Coffee Chat event was a great way to learn about the details of KSEA’s events and to hear stories in person, which was much better than communicating through email.

The Coffee Chat provided a meaningful networking platform for both current and prospective KSEA members, allowing students to form personal connections within the KSEA ASU YG group. The event underscored the group's collaborative spirit, strengthening the sense of community among members.

With the success of the event, the ASU YG group looks forward to continuing its mission of fostering strong relationships within the Korean STEM community at ASU, offering valuable resources and mentorship to its members. The event closed on a hopeful note, encouraging participants to leverage this experience to grow as leaders and contribute to the vibrant KSEA community.

By Dr. Yeon Ha Ju

Seminar Director of KSEA Austin TX Chapter

Under the auspices of the Korean American Association of Greater Austin (KAAGA) led by President Lee Heekyung, the Korean-American Scientists and Engineers Association (KSEA) Austin Chapter celebrated exceptional research achievements by young scientists and engineers through the Best Paper Award. This prestigious recognition aims to highlight groundbreaking contributions in the fields of basic science and engineering, fostering innovation and excellence within the Austin research community.

The KSEA Austin TX Chapter annually hosts the Best Paper Award, which honors graduate students and postdoctoral researchers for their outstanding research contributions. Papers published in the fields of engineering and basic science undergo a rigorous review process to select the most exceptional works, ensuring that the award reflects the highest level of scholarly achievement. For this year, the eligibility was limited to papers published after October 1, 2023.

In the field of engineering, Dr. Sangdo Yook received the honor for his pioneering work titled "Engineering and evolution of Yarrowia lipolytica for producing lipids from lignocellulosic hydrolysates," published in Bioresource Technology. Dr. Yook's research leverages synthetic biology and metabolic engineering to advance sustainable bioproduction. His study explores the potential of re-engineering microbial systems to efficiently convert lignocellulosic hydrolysates, a renewable biomass resource, into valuable lipids. These innovations hold promise for enhancing sustainability in industries such as biofuels and bioplastics.

In the field of basic science, Mr. Dongseob Kim was recognized for his groundbreaking paper, "Electrostatic moiré potential from twisted hexagonal boron nitride layers," published in Nature Materials. Mr. Kim’s research sheds light on the transformative properties of twisted hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) layers. By uncovering the unique electrostatic moiré patterns in hBN, his study paves the way for applications in cutting-edge fields like nanophotonics and quantum information technologies, offering a new paradigm for material science and device engineering.

The awardees presented their research findings and engaged in an insightful Q&A session during the KSEA Austin Chapter Technical Seminar, held at the University of Texas at Austin on December 6, 2024. This seminar provided an interactive platform for local scientists, engineers, and students to discuss emerging topics and exchange ideas, further strengthening the academic and professional network within the Korean-American scientific community.

The recognition of the awardees continued at the 2024 Austin Korean Society Cultural Night, hosted by KAAGA on December 14, 2024. During this vibrant cultural event, Dr. Yook and Mr. Kim were formally presented with KAAGA scholarships in honor of their achievements. The ceremony highlighted the vital role of interdisciplinary research and innovation in advancing both scientific knowledge and practical applications, reflecting the collaborative spirit of the Austin Korean-American community.

By celebrating the achievements of young researchers like Dr. Yook and Mr. Kim, the KSEA Austin Chapter and KAAGA aim to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers. Their collective efforts underscore a commitment to fostering scientific excellence and supporting promising talents, strengthening the bridge between the Korean-American community and the broader research landscape.

The annual Best Paper Award remains a cornerstone of the KSEA Austin Chapter’s mission to promote academic and professional growth among Korean-American researchers. By recognizing the hard work and dedication of graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, the chapter continues to build a vibrant community dedicated to science, technology, and innovation.

 By Seungheon Lee

President of UT YG group

On November 14, 2024, the UT STEM Seminar, a flagship event of the Korean-American Scientists and Engineers Association (KSEA) Austin Chapter, took center stage at the University of Texas at Austin, drawing a vibrant audience of researchers, students, and postdoctoral scholars. Held in NHB 1.720, the seminar was hosted by the Austin Young Generation (YG) group and aimed to create a dynamic platform for members to share their cutting-edge research while fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration.

The evening showcased the academic talents of 11 students from diverse disciplines at UT Austin, with topics spanning basic and applied sciences. Attendees delved into a variety of groundbreaking research, including advancements in regenerating Retinal Pigment Epithelium, the revolutionary applications of CRISPR/Cas12 for gene editing, innovative game theory strategies to optimize communication networks, and sustainable approaches to reusing construction materials. Each presentation was thoughtfully crafted to make complex ideas accessible, ensuring that participants, regardless of their field, left with a clear understanding of the key takeaways.

The 3-hour seminar, held from 6 PM to just after 9 PM, attracted over 40 attendees, a diverse mix of undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and professionals. This diversity enriched the event, fostering vibrant discussions and inspiring participants to broaden their knowledge beyond their areas of expertise. The audience included four undergraduate students, approximately 23 graduate students, and 13 postdoctoral scholars, creating a melting pot of perspectives that enhanced the quality of interactions.

A hallmark of the seminar was its emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration. Following each presentation, engaging Q&A sessions allowed attendees to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, and brainstorm solutions. These discussions not only deepened understanding but also opened doors for future partnerships between research groups. Presenting to an audience outside their own fields challenged the speakers to refine their communication skills, enabling them to articulate their findings more effectively and gain valuable feedback.

The seminar also reinforced the strong sense of community within the KSEA Austin Chapter. By bringing together a diverse group of researchers, the event encouraged networking and strengthened professional connections. Many attendees remarked on the value of such opportunities to interact with peers across different disciplines, paving the way for collaborative initiatives that could have a lasting impact.

As the evening concluded, participants reflected on the seminar’s success in fostering intellectual exchange and accessible scientific communication. The event underscored the importance of creating platforms that bridge academic silos, enabling researchers to learn from one another and inspire innovation.

Looking ahead, the Austin YG group plans to build on this momentum by hosting similar events in the future. By continuing to promote interdisciplinary dialogue and a sense of community, the UT Korean STEM Seminar stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in driving research forward. Participants left the seminar not only with new insights but also with strengthened networks and the potential for groundbreaking collaborations that could shape the future of science and engineering.

Yejun Na

President of KSEA Angelo State University YG

The Career Development Workshop, the fourth event organized by the Young Generation (YG) Group of the Korean-American Scientists and Engineers Association (KSEA) Austin TX Chapter at Angelo State University (ASU), took place on October 19th, 2024. The event, held at the ASU Lake House, primarily featured lectures by current PhD doctors covering topics such as graduate school insights and essential personal skills. Additionally, a Q&A session provided attendees with firsthand information about life as a graduate student. The workshop ran from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with lunch and dinner provided. Four Doctors conducting research at UT Austin were invited to share their experiences, and approximately 41 students attended the event to engage with them, gather information, and prepare for their futures. Out of 43 active ASU undergraduate members in KSEA, 41 participated, resulting in a remarkable participation rate of about 95%, the highest of any Fall 2024 event.

The doctors traveled from Austin to San Angelo to share their experiences and provide guidance to students preparing for their futures, undertaking a 3-hour, 30-minute journey to support them. The event began with lunch (McDonald's hamburgers) from 12 PM to 1 PM, followed by lectures starting at 1 PM. Each doctor had 40 minutes to present, delivering smooth and well-organized presentations with prepared slides. They shared personal journeys, discussing pivotal moments, decisions made at critical crossroads, and the criteria they used to guide these choices. With each doctor offering a unique story, students were exposed to diverse experiences, inspiring some to resolve to work diligently toward their own goals. Short breaks were taken between each lecture.

Following the lectures, a panel discussion session was held, offering a highly productive forum where one student’s question often addressed the curiosity of others as well. Students raised questions about future planning, life attitudes, graduate research topics, and tips for a productive lifestyle. Additionally, students voiced concerns about whether to pursue employment or graduate school post-graduation, as well as inquiries about health management, given the importance of physical strength and well-being, along with questions on OPT visas and pathways to permanent residency. Throughout the workshop, the PhD doctors offered sincere advice, recommending effective strategies and cautioning against unproductive approaches, while wholeheartedly supporting and encouraging the students in their future pursuits.

After the informative academic session, participants enjoyed a group activity designed for social networking. They began with an ice-breaking game called the Gathering Game, where participants walked around and, at the host’s cue—such as “Gather in groups of 5!”—quickly grouped themselves. Anyone who failed to join a group of the specified size was eliminated. This was followed by a treasure hunt. Before the workshop began, the hosts hid chocolates numbered from 1 to 50 around the ASU Lake House. During the game, participants searched for chocolates, with the person finding the highest number getting the first choice of prizes. This activity added a competitive element, and participants enthusiastically explored the Lake House to find the highest numbers.

The evening concluded with a Korean BBQ dinner, providing participants with time to network and chat, bringing the event to a successful and enjoyable close. ASU students expressed their gratitude to the doctors who had traveled a long way to attend, to the KSEA Austin ASU YG Group for organizing such a fun and informative event, and to the KSEA Austin Chapter for supporting the event and generously providing the budget.

Seungmi Kim

Project Manager of KSEA Angelo State University YG

The Job Seeking Seminar, the third event initiated by the KSEA (Korean-American Scientists and Engineers Association) Austin TX Chapter’s YG Group at Angelo State (ASU), took place on October 16th, 2024. The event, held in Room 238 in the Vincent Building, primarily focused on Job Trend Analysis of the United States and job searching strategies. Approximately 20 students participated and were provided with pizza for dinner, thanks to a donated budget from the KSEA Austin Chapter. The event lasted from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM and was conducted virtually. The session was organized in collaboration with the Dallas branch of the Korea Trade Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), with KOTRA’s Trade Agency Director serving as the keynote speaker.

In the first session, President Min Kyung-ki and KOTRA Director Yoon Ji-won delivered informative lectures on hiring trends in the U.S. and Korea, as well as guidance on managing visa status for foreign residents. This session provided attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. job market and enhanced their awareness of the requirements and strategies for securing employment in the U.S. Both presenters expressed optimism about job opportunities for Koreans in the U.S. and were eager to support students aspiring to work there. They highlighted KOTRA as a valuable resource, sharing information on overseas employment initiatives that connect talented young Koreans with global companies, as well as insights into OPT visas and green card pathways to help students succeed in finding employment.

In the second session, BTI introduced its BTI Solution project, explaining that the project currently employs 350 people and that it benefits Korean students by requiring ongoing communication with Korea. They also noted that BTI provides strong visa support, including H1B visas for high-performing employees after six months. Students received detailed guidance on the first steps to apply to such companies, including resume writing and application submission.

Finally, students asked questions in the Q&A session and received answers from current professionals. Through open communication, the professionals fulfilled their mentoring role and expressed satisfaction in helping the students. This Job-Seeking Seminar was structured to allow students to comfortably ask questions and receive guidance, focusing on mentorship. Although some delays occurred due to the remote format, participants remained understanding and maintained considerate and productive exchanges. The event concluded with students expressing their deep gratitude to the speakers for their efforts in creating a valuable opportunity for Koreans pursuing employment in the United States.

Yejun Na

President of KSEA Angelo State University YG

The Job Preparation Workshop, the second event initiated by the KSEA (Korean-American Scientists and Engineers Association) Austin TX Chapter’s YG Group at Angelo State University (ASU), took place on October 2nd, 2024. The event, held in Room 238 of the Vincent Building, primarily focused on resume writing and editing from the perspective of a current expert involved in recruiting employees and reviewing resumes. Approximately 30 students participated and were provided with Korean food for dinner, thanks to a donated budget from the KSEA Austin Chapter. The event lasted from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM and was divided into two sessions. The first was a lecture on writing an effective resume, and the second was an editing session where selected students’ resumes were reviewed. Mr. Joonho Sung was invited once again, continuing from the previous event, to share his expertise and contribute to the students' success.

In the first session, Mr. Joonho Sung delivered a lecture on how to create not only a compelling but also a practical resume. He explained that a resume is a concise document that presents who you are to potential employers and serves as the first tool to communicate with them. Therefore, a well-crafted resume should motivate employers to invite you for an interview, making it essential to maintain an impressive one. He recommended keeping a resume under one page, citing that employers typically spend an average of 10 seconds reviewing a resume. He shared his personal opinion that if a resume exceeds one page, employers may be discouraged as they have to turn the page. 

He then highlighted the importance of resume formatting and offered tips for improving resumes. Mr. Sung emphasized that the content of a resume allows employers to understand your experiences, the roles you've held, and the most important aspect: how you brand yourself. While unique resume formatting can showcase your individuality, he advised that simple format is the best. Rather than spending too much time on formatting, he encouraged students to invest time in tailoring their resume for each company to strengthen the content. Finally, he stressed the value of sharing your resume with professionals already working in the field to gain feedback and the importance of cultivating mentors to help refine your resume.

During the second session, Mr. Sung reviewed the resumes of students who had submitted theirs in advance, displaying them on the screen and providing detailed feedback. Four students submitted their resumes, and others in attendance gained ideas for improving their resumes by observing the review process. Mr. Sung offered specific comments on each section of the resumes, offering advice on areas that needed improvement. He encouraged and guided the students toward writing stronger resumes.

This event was extremely beneficial for those preparing for the job market in the U.S., those planning to apply for graduate school, and anyone in need of resume guidance. Students were highly satisfied with the opportunity to hear from a speaker with extensive experience reviewing and hiring for numerous positions at Dell. We are deeply grateful to Mr. Joonho Sung for taking the time to deliver such an insightful lecture and to the KSEA Austin Chapter for facilitating this valuable networking opportunity.

Reported by In-Hyouk Song

President of KSEA Austin TX Chapter

On November 2, 2024, the KSEA Austin TX Chapter organized a fall picnic that brought together around 70 attendees, even though rain was expected. This event, hosted for existing KSEA members, their families, and individuals interested in joining, showcased the Chapter’s vibrant community spirit and dedication to connecting professionals and students in the Korean science and engineering community.

Starting with registration at 10:00 AM, participants began arriving and socializing while the anticipated rain held off. By 11:00 AM, the picnic was in full swing, with Dr. In-Hyouk Song, the KSEA Austin TX Chapter President, delivering an enthusiastic welcome speech. He expressed gratitude for the turnout and introduced the day’s schedule, setting an optimistic tone for the gathering.

The day’s activities were thoughtfully designed to engage everyone. The attendees were divided into two groups at 11:15 AM, with one group enjoying board games indoors and the other participating in outdoor activities, including soccer and frisbee. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, allowing participants to connect naturally and share experiences.

The picnic lunch, starting at noon, was a highlight. As attendees enjoyed their meals, they shared conversations, with more experienced members offering career insights to students. This casual setting fostered meaningful connections and facilitated discussions on career paths, academic challenges, and personal experiences in a supportive environment.

Following lunch, the Chapter leaders led a series of group games, which saw enthusiastic participation from all ages. With laughter and camaraderie filling the air, the games brought attendees closer together, fostering a sense of community that resonated with KSEA’s mission. A small awards ceremony concluded the games, recognizing winning teams and individuals with prizes that added a fun, competitive edge to the day.

As the event wrapped up, Dr. Song expressed his appreciation to everyone who had attended and shared the Chapter’s upcoming plans. He emphasized the Chapter’s ongoing commitment to expanding opportunities for professional development and community building. A raffle followed, sparking excitement among attendees as prizes were drawn. The event concluded with a group photo to commemorate the day, capturing the smiles and memories forged during the picnic.

One of the most significant successes of this year’s picnic was the addition of over 10 new members, reflecting the event’s appeal to prospective KSEA participants. Additionally, several former members renewed their memberships, marking a positive step for the Chapter’s growth and engagement.

The picnic not only provided a welcoming space for networking but also demonstrated KSEA Austin TX Chapter’s commitment to fostering a strong, supportive community for professionals, students, and researchers alike. With renewed memberships and an influx of new members, the Chapter is poised for a promising future, building on the spirit of connection and collaboration that defined this memorable fall picnic.

• 날짜및 시간: 6:30 PM, Friday, Sep. 27, 2024

• 장소: Neural Molecular Science Building, Room 1.120., University of Texas, 2506 Speedway, Austin

• 발표자: Dr. Dabin Kim, The University of Texas at Austin.

• 주제: photo-imitated processes using ultrafast two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy (2DES) techniques

Reported by In-Hyouk Song

President of KSEA Austin TX Chapter

On Friday, September 27th, the KSEA Austin TX Chapter held its 38th Technical Seminar at the University of Texas at Austin. The seminar featured a presentation by Dr. Dabin Kim, who shared insights from her cutting-edge research in light-harvesting systems, focusing on photo-imitated processes using ultrafast two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy (2DES) techniques.

Dr. Kim's research delves into the intricate dynamics of excitonic states, electronic energy transfer, charge and electron transfer, and singlet fission, all of which occur on ultrafast timescales. During her presentation, she highlighted her work on Photosystem I (PSI) complexes, exploring these natural photosynthetic systems in depth. Her findings offer a profound understanding of energy transfer mechanisms in nature, and her discussion engaged the audience in a lively scientific exchange.

The event was attended by 31 members from the Austin area, while 9 undergraduate students from Angelo State University participated online. After the presentation, a Q&A session allowed attendees to further explore Dr. Kim's research and its potential applications.

Following the seminar, Dr. Kim was presented with a plaque of appreciation in recognition of her service as the Proposal Director for the KSEA Austin TX Chapter over the past two years.

Afterward, all attendees moved to a nearby restaurant where they enjoyed a social gathering, strengthening ties within the KSEA community. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for members to connect and engage in further discussions outside the formal setting.

The seminar was another great event for the KSEA Austin community, bringing people together to share knowledge, work together, and build friendships in science and engineering.