Q1. Hello, Professor. Could you please briefly introduce yourself?

Hello. I completed my master’s degree in 1997 at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST). At that time, I was in the Department of Information and Communications and conducted my research under Professor Yong-Tak Lee. Later, I decided to pursue further academic exploration and deeper research by studying abroad. I earned my Ph.D. from Georgia Tech in 2003. Currently, I am a professor at the City University of New York (CUNY).

I have been deeply engaged in the field of photonics for many years, focusing on optical devices such as photodetectors, lasers, and optical filters. My research is fundamentally rooted in device technology, and I have expanded it toward designing and building optical communication infrastructures.

Q2. What motivated you to study abroad?

I had maintained a strong interest in optics since my master’s program. At GIST, there were quite a few professors working in this area, so I was naturally exposed to and intrigued by the field. I wanted to delve deeper into device research and explore how it could be integrated with other applied areas.

That’s what led me to pursue studies abroad. Rather than studying just a single device in isolation, I wanted to broaden my perspective and contribute to technologies with real-world impact by integrating them into larger systems.

Q3. What areas are you currently focusing on?

My research originally began with optical devices. Now, I am expanding that foundation into biomedical devices using optical technologies. Currently, I am focusing on vision-related research.

For instance, I’m working on restoring vision by artificially stimulating the optic nerve or retina when damage has occurred. This is not merely biomimetic engineering—it’s a multidisciplinary approach that combines optical device technology, biosignal processing, and biomedical engineering. My background in optics has been instrumental in tackling these complex problems. I find this field to be both challenging and deeply meaningful.

Q4. What led you to choose a career in academia?

During my master’s and doctoral studies, I realized the immense value of intellectual freedom—the ability to define and solve problems independently. Being a researcher, particularly a professor, allows for a high degree of that freedom.

I enjoy the autonomy in choosing how to approach a problem and devising solutions on my own terms. Also, mentoring students, sharing ideas, and achieving results together is incredibly rewarding. For me, becoming a professor was a natural decision.

Q5. Have there been any particularly rewarding moments in your research career?

In line with what I mentioned earlier, there is a unique thrill when a hypothesis proves correct through experiments and leads to a solution for a technical problem. Seeing those results published and recognized through external funding is very fulfilling.

Another major source of satisfaction is my relationship with students. Watching them find their own paths in research and grow professionally gives me great joy. Knowing that I am part of their journey makes the experience even more meaningful.

Q6. How do you deal with stress or difficult times in research?

Honestly, I haven’t experienced significant stress in my research career. Of course, there have been challenging times, but overall, I’ve been fortunate to maintain a stable environment in terms of lab management, securing funding, and carrying out projects. I think this balance has naturally helped reduce tension, allowing me to stay focused on my work.

Q7. Do you think research suits your personality? What traits are important for researchers?

I would say I’m an optimistic person by nature, and that has helped me a lot in research. People handle problems differently—what may be a major source of stress for one may not be as heavy for another. Since research often involves failures and repetition, maintaining a relaxed and positive attitude is very important.

Research may not be a perfect fit for everyone, but I believe anyone with patience and composure can give it a good shot.

Q8. What kind of research do you hope to pursue in the future?

My biggest hope is that the research I conduct will have a tangible impact on society and people's lives. In particular, the work I’m doing on vision restoration has the potential to provide direct benefits to patients, which gives it significant meaning.

Outside of research, I don’t have any specific plans, but I aim to continue producing valuable outcomes in my field.

Q9. Do you have any advice for students considering their career paths after a master’s degree?

Nowadays, GIST and other institutes have grown, and there are a wide variety of research labs. I think it's important for students to visit different labs or participate in various projects while they’re still in school to build experience.

Finding a field that truly suits you is not easy. It takes exposure to diverse experiences to discover where your real interests lie. Once you’ve figured that out, you can consider studying abroad, getting a job, or even starting your own business.

Of course, every choice comes with practical hurdles—financial, familial, or time-related. But try not to be discouraged. There are often alternative routes, even when things seem blocked. I also faced uncertain moments during my journey through grad school, postdoc, and into my current position. Looking back, they turned out to be valuable opportunities.

Q10. Any words for students considering studying or working abroad?

These days, there are many Korean professors and professionals overseas, and clearly, opportunities have increased compared to the past.

The key, however, is being prepared to seize those opportunities. You need to build up your skills. If you find a field you’re passionate about, study it in depth, ask questions, and explore proactively. That’s how you grow your expertise.

As for English, fluency is great, but as long as you can communicate clearly and technically, it usually doesn’t pose a major barrier in research or work environments.

Q11. Any final thoughts you'd like to share?

If I were to return to my undergraduate days, I’d probably feel that same uncertainty—“What should I be doing right now?” That’s a perfectly normal feeling.

There’s no need to rush. Some people make instant decisions, but many others take time. If possible, I highly recommend visiting labs or trying different experiences during a semester or break. Only through such experiences can you truly discover what suits you.

Everyone feels confused when making important decisions. Don’t overthink it. Take your time and trust that, even if the path is slow, you’ll eventually find your way.