34th Science and Technology Excellence Paper Award Photo

Professor Seo Myeong-ji of Incheon National University's Department of Biotechnology won the 34th Science and Technology Excellence Paper Award at the 2nd World Korean Science and Technology Conference held at the Korea Science and Technology Center on the 11th.

Professor Seo Myung-ji's award-winning paper is published in Food Science and Biotechnology, an academic journal published by the Korea Food Science Association under the theme of "Explaining the Probiotic and Antioxidant Functionality of Lactiplantibacillus Plantarum Producing C30 Carotenoid Separated from Kimchi."

This study isolated lactic acid bacteria that produce C30 carotenoid, a new antioxidant functional material, from kimchi, a representative traditional fermented food, and suggested its probiotic material applicability.

Professor Seo is conducting research at Incheon National University to develop eco-friendly and sustainable advanced biomaterials through redesigning and fermentation optimization of microbial resources based on synthetic biology and precision fermentation engineering. In particular, research has been conducted with great interest in the microbiological production and commercialization of C30 and C50 carotenoids, which are rare natural carotenoids for the first time in Korea.

Professor Seo said, "It is an honor to receive the award for the achievements of research conducted in the field of microbial biotechnology," adding, "We will continue to make efforts to contribute to the development of science and technology in Korea in the field of white bio, which develops various biopharmaceuticals and cosmetic materials using microorganisms."

Organized by the Korea Federation of Science and Technology Organizations and the Ministry of Science and ICT, the "Science and Technology Excellence Paper Award" is the most prestigious academic award in the field of science and technology in Korea to scientists who have published excellent papers through creative research activities.