Students at the Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, which was originally established as the animal bioengineering department 58 years ago, will study how to repair or replace damaged organs using stem cells and also focus on the aging process. Modeled after the Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology at Harvard University, the department at Konkuk Institute of Technology will be the first of its kind for an undergraduate program in Korea.

After gaining a strong foundation in life sciences, students will choose between two tracks. The first track focuses on stem-cell engineering, such as treatments, biomedicine, and anti-aging products. The other track specializes in regenerative biology, and involves genetic treatment and personalized medicine.

Professor Jeong Tae Do expects that genetic treatment and personalized medicine will become widespread in the near future. “The market for stem cell and regenerative biology is growing at an annual rate of 24 percent,” said the professor. “Between 2020 and 2030, bioengineering and regenerative medicine may reach its peak, and the department will produce graduates who will be able to lead the field.”