Prof. Dr. WAN-JEONG JEONG , Department of Nuclear Medicine, Molecular Imaging Therapeutic Medicine Research Center, Jeonbuk Regional Cyclotron Research Center & Biotracer Imaging Lab. Jeonbuk National University Medical School & Hospital, South Korea
Dr. Hwan-Jeong Jeong is a distinguished leader in the field of nuclear medicine, currently serving as Director and Professor at Jeonbuk National University Medical School & Hospital, South Korea. With over two decades of academic and clinical experience, Dr. Jeong has pioneered research in molecular imaging, photobiomodulation, and radiopharmaceutical science. He has made impactful contributions to translational oncology, neuroimaging, and light-based therapeutics. With over 120 peer-reviewed publications, 33 patents, and an H-index of 44, his work bridges the gap between basic science and clinical innovation. Recognized for advancing image-guided therapy and precision diagnostics, he also actively collaborates across global institutions and serves as Associate Editor for Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging. A recipient of multiple national and international recognitions, Dr. Jeong’s efforts continue to shape the future of medical imaging and cancer therapeutics. His commitment to integrating engineering and medicine marks him as a global innovator in nuclear and molecular medicine.
Publication Profile:
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✅ Strengths for the Award:
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Outstanding Academic and Clinical Background: Dr. Jeong holds an MD, a Master’s in Medical Engineering, and a PhD in Medicine, with postdoctoral training at the prestigious MD Anderson Cancer Center.
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Leadership in Research: As Director of multiple research centers, he has led over 20 high-impact projects, overseen 5 industry collaborations, and contributed to 120+ SCI-indexed publications.
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Innovation & Translation: Holder of 33 patents, Dr. Jeong is a pioneer in integrating photobiogoverning, PET/CT imaging, and light-based cancer therapy, bridging lab discoveries and clinical application.
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Global Recognition: Editorial board role in Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, and a consistent H-index of 44, reflect international impact and scientific credibility.
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Cutting-Edge Contributions: Known for novel developments in blue light phototherapy, tumor-targeted radiopharmaceuticals, and noninvasive neuroimaging, significantly advancing cancer and neurological diagnostics.
⚠️ Areas for Improvement:
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Broader International Collaboration: While highly respected in Korea and internationally, formalizing more international co-research programs or multicenter trials could further expand global reach.
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Public Engagement & Science Communication: Increasing public visibility through science outreach, open-access publications, or global lectures/webinars can elevate the societal impact of his research.
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Interdisciplinary Expansion: Potential to integrate AI-based imaging analysis or bioinformatics tools into existing molecular imaging and diagnostics research may boost next-gen innovation.
🎓 Education:
Dr. Hwan-Jeong Jeong began his academic journey at Chonnam National University, where he earned his MD in 1993, followed by a Master’s in Medical Engineering in 2000, and a Ph.D. in Medicine in 2003. He pursued his residency in Nuclear Medicine at Chonnam National University Hospital, gaining a strong clinical foundation. To further enhance his research capabilities, he completed a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas, Houston, between 2008–2010. His educational path reflects an interdisciplinary approach—blending clinical medicine, biomedical engineering, and advanced imaging sciences. With an emphasis on nuclear medicine and optical diagnostics, Dr. Jeong’s educational background has strategically positioned him at the intersection of clinical practice and high-impact research. His academic evolution reflects a consistent dedication to innovation, translational research, and global collaboration.
🧪 Experience:
Dr. Jeong has served as Director and Professor of Nuclear Medicine at Jeonbuk National University Medical School & Hospital since 2005. His professional journey began with clinical training and residency, evolving into a global research career that includes a pivotal postdoctoral role at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Over the years, he has directed more than 20 research projects, consulted on 5 industry collaborations, and published over 120 scientific papers. Dr. Jeong holds 33 patents, highlighting his innovation in photomedicine and molecular imaging. He leads multiple advanced imaging centers and research labs, including the Molecular Imaging Therapeutic Medicine Research Center and Jeonbuk Regional Cyclotron Research Center. Internationally respected, he also serves as an Associate Editor for Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging. His experience combines clinical expertise, leadership in research infrastructure, and international collaborations that foster innovation and patient-centered imaging solutions.
🔬 Research Focus:
Dr. Jeong’s research lies at the nexus of nuclear medicine, molecular imaging, and photobiomodulation therapy. His groundbreaking work integrates blue light phototherapy, PET/CT molecular imaging, radiopharmaceutical development, and fiber-optic–guided treatment systems for cancers and neurological disorders. He has made significant advances in FDG-PET imaging, amyloid brain scans, and light-triggered tumor therapies, facilitating precision diagnostics and targeted interventions. A key innovator in photobiogoverning—the biological control via light—Dr. Jeong has translated preclinical concepts into clinical applications through rigorous trials and device validation. His projects often explore the interface between biomedical optics and nano-diagnostics, enhancing real-time monitoring and minimally invasive treatments. Through cross-disciplinary collaborations and cutting-edge device design, he has shaped protocols that merge imaging with therapy for high-impact patient outcomes. His research aligns closely with future directions in personalized medicine and oncology imaging.
📚 Publications Top Notes:
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📘 From molecular mechanisms to clinical applications: A comprehensive review of photobiomodulation in cancer treatment
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📘 Blue-light activated nanoplatforms for image-guided cancer therapy
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📘 Clinical applications of brain amyloid PET imaging in neurodegenerative diseases
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📘 Multimodal theranostics using PET/CT and photodynamic therapy in head and neck cancer
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📘 Innovative radiotracers for monitoring tumor hypoxia and therapeutic response
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📘 Fiber-optic–based interstitial phototherapy in liver malignancies: A pilot clinical study
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📘 Nanomedicine-based nuclear imaging in virus-infected tissues
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📘 Bioluminescent imaging in evaluating immunotherapy response in solid tumors
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📘 Therapeutic implications of photobiogoverning in minimally invasive oncology
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📘 Noninvasive tracking of neuroinflammation using fluorinated PET probes
🧾 Conclusion:
Dr. Hwan-Jeong Jeong is an exceptionally qualified nominee for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions to nuclear medicine, molecular imaging, and light-based therapies exemplify academic excellence, clinical innovation, and translational impact. His body of work aligns closely with the award’s values—scientific rigor, real-world application, and forward-thinking medical solutions. With ongoing work in precision diagnostics and phototherapy, he not only meets but exceeds the standards expected of top global researchers in biomedical science. Dr. Jeong’s profile is a model of interdisciplinary leadership, making him a compelling and well-deserved recipient for this prestigious recognition.