Hyo Jung Kim – Materials Science and Engineering – Best Researcher Award

Hyo Jung Kim - Materials Science and Engineering - Best Researcher Award

Prosthodontic resident at Dankook University

Hyo Jung Kim is a resident in Prosthodontics at Dankook University Dental Hospital and a master's student at the College of Dentistry, Dankook University. The research primarily focuses on the long-term performance of CAD-CAM glass–ceramics and the effects of ultraviolet weathering aging on their mechanical, optical, surface, and microbial properties. Through extensive laboratory studies, significant contributions have been made to understanding color stability, hardness, roughness, and bacterial adhesion in different ceramic materials, aiming to improve evidence-based prosthodontic rehabilitation techniques and digital dentistry advancements.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education

Hyo Jung Kim is currently pursuing a master’s degree at Dankook University, College of Dentistry, while simultaneously undergoing residency training in Prosthodontics at Dankook University Dental Hospital. This combined academic and clinical exposure supports a comprehensive understanding of dental materials and restorative techniques. The program integrates rigorous research with practical applications, focusing on CAD-CAM glass–ceramics and innovative prosthodontic rehabilitation. The dual-track education fosters advanced analytical skills and expertise in material properties, contributing significantly to clinical decision-making and digital dentistry advancements in dental practice and research.

Professional Experience

Hyo Jung Kim serves as a resident in Prosthodontics at Dankook University Dental Hospital, where clinical expertise is combined with advanced research in restorative dentistry. The role involves conducting detailed studies on CAD-CAM glass–ceramics, focusing on their durability and performance under ultraviolet weathering aging. Collaborations with the Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN) enhance exposure to cutting-edge technologies and research methodologies. This integrated experience in clinical practice and material science research positions Kim to make meaningful contributions to evidence-based dental care and innovative prosthodontic solutions in modern dentistry.

Research Interest

Research interests focus on understanding the mechanical, optical, and microbial aging behavior of CAD-CAM glass–ceramics used in prosthodontics. Studies involve analyzing the effects of ultraviolet weathering aging on various ceramics, including feldspar, leucite, lithium disilicate, and zirconia-reinforced materials. The research aims to optimize material selection for restorative dentistry by evaluating performance factors such as color stability, hardness, surface roughness, and bacterial adhesion. These investigations bridge laboratory findings with clinical applications, supporting advancements in digital dentistry and guiding practitioners toward effective and evidence-based dental rehabilitation strategies.

Award And Honor

Hyo Jung Kim has been nominated for the Best Researcher Award in recognition of innovative contributions to dental material science and prosthodontic research. The nomination highlights extensive research on CAD-CAM glass–ceramics and ultraviolet weathering aging effects, demonstrating significant advancements in understanding their clinical performance and durability. This honor reflects dedication to integrating research findings into practical dental applications, promoting evidence-based practices in restorative dentistry. The recognition further supports academic excellence and positions Kim as an emerging contributor to improving materials and techniques used in prosthodontic rehabilitation and digital dentistry developments.

Research Skill

Hyo Jung Kim possesses advanced research skills in evaluating the structural, mechanical, optical, and microbial properties of dental ceramics. Proficiency includes conducting in vitro experiments, utilizing advanced analytical tools, and interpreting material-specific behavior under ultraviolet weathering aging. Expertise extends to comparing performance variations among feldspar, leucite, lithium disilicate, and zirconia-reinforced ceramics. Collaborative work with specialized institutes enhances knowledge of modern dental technologies and innovative research approaches. These skills contribute to bridging laboratory findings with clinical dentistry, advancing evidence-based treatment strategies, and supporting sustainable developments in prosthodontic material science and restorative techniques.

Publications

Hyo Jung Kim has contributed to scholarly publications in dental research, including a significant study on CAD-CAM glass–ceramics under ultraviolet weathering aging, published in the Journal of Dentistry (SCI-indexed). The research provided crucial insights into the material-specific responses of feldspar, leucite, lithium disilicate, and zirconia-reinforced ceramics, focusing on color stability, hardness, roughness, and bacterial adhesion. Findings from this publication inform better clinical decision-making and support advancements in prosthodontic practices. The work establishes a strong foundation for future research and expands contributions to digital dentistry innovations and evidence-based material selection.

Title: Case Report: Prosthetic Rehabilitation with a Removable Partial Denture and Occlusal Comparison Using Digital Devices for a Patient with a Defect Lacking Bone Support Due to Maxillary Sinus Resection
Authors: Hyo Jung Kim, Jonghyuk Lee, Seung-Ryong Ha, Yu-Sung Choi
Journal: The Journal of Korean Academy of Prosthodontics, 2025

Title: Factors Influencing Marginal Bone Loss in Dental Treatment Planning and Prosthetic Phases: A Literature Review
Authors: Minwoo Chu, Chanyoung Yoon, Donghun Lee, Hyojung Kim, Yusung Choi, Jonghyuk Lee
Journal: Journal of Implantology and Applied Sciences, 2025

Conclusion

Hyo Jung Kim’s academic journey, professional training, and research contributions highlight expertise in dental materials and prosthodontic advancements. Through rigorous studies on CAD-CAM glass–ceramics and ultraviolet weathering effects, meaningful insights have been gained into material behavior, performance optimization, and restorative applications. The nomination for the Best Researcher Award demonstrates growing recognition within the dental research community. With a strong foundation in both clinical and research domains, Kim continues contributing to digital dentistry, innovative prosthodontic solutions, and the broader development of evidence-based practices for improved patient care and material advancements.

Prof. Nonhlangabezo Mabuba – Photocatalytic Materials – Excellence in Research

Prof. Nonhlangabezo Mabuba - Photocatalytic Materials - Excellence in Research

University of Johannesburg - South Africa

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Prof. Nonhlangabezo (Bezo) Mabuba began her academic journey by obtaining a Master of Science degree in Water Science from Duisburg-Essen Universität, Germany, in 2007, followed by a Ph.D. in Natural Sciences from the same institution in collaboration with ThyssenKrupp Steel AG, Hamborn, Germany, in 2010. These early academic pursuits laid the foundation for her future contributions to the field of Analytical Chemistry, Material and Processing Science.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Prof. Mabuba's professional journey has been characterized by various roles in academia, research, and leadership. She currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical Sciences at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), where she also holds the position of Acting Deputy Dean in the Faculty of Science. Over the years, she has held key positions such as Senior Lecturer, Deputy Director for the Centre of Nanomaterial Science Research, and Deputy Head of the Department of Chemical Sciences for teaching and learning at UJ.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Prof. Mabuba's research focuses on the development of Photocatalytic Materials for water quality monitoring and treatment. She supervises students in exploring innovative applications of nanomaterials in (bio)sensors, (bio)adsorbents, and piezocatalytic materials. Her research is dedicated to advancing methods for efficient and sustainable wastewater quality monitoring and treatment, aligning with global efforts towards environmental sustainability.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Prof. Mabuba's international visibility in the scientific community is evidenced by her high H-index on Google Scholar and Scopus. Her research outputs have contributed significantly to the field of Analytical Chemistry and Nanomaterial Science, with implications for water treatment technologies and environmental conservation efforts.

ACADEMIC CITATIONS

Prof. Mabuba's research findings have been cited extensively, reflecting their impact and relevance in the scientific community. Her work has garnered attention from peers, researchers, and professionals in the field, further solidifying her reputation as a leading expert in Photocatalytic Materials and water treatment.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Prof. Mabuba's legacy lies in her continued dedication to research excellence, mentorship, and community development. Through her leadership roles, collaborative efforts, and academic contributions, she aims to inspire future generations of researchers and make lasting contributions to the field of Photocatalytic Materials and environmental science.

PHOTOCATALYTIC MATERIALS

Prof. Mabuba's research expertise and focus revolve around Photocatalytic Materials, which play a crucial role in water quality monitoring and treatment. By leveraging nanomaterials and innovative approaches, she aims to develop efficient and sustainable methods for addressing water pollution and ensuring access to clean water resources. Through her research, Prof. Mabuba contributes to advancements in environmental science and sustainable development, with implications for global health and well-being.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Design of New Schiff-Base Copper(II) Complexes: Synthesis, Crystal Structures, DFT Study, and Binding Potency toward Cytochrome P450 3A4.  2021 (78)

Coupling cathodic electro-fenton with anodic photo-electrochemical oxidation: A feasibility study on the mineralization of paracetamol.  2020 (68)