Dr. Hyun Jung Lee, Materials chemistry, Korea Institute of Fusion Energy, South Korea
Dr. Hyunjung Lee is a distinguished physicist and Principal Investigator at the Korea Institute of Fusion Energy (KFE) in Daejeon, South Korea. With a Ph.D. in Physics from Kyungpook National University, she has over two decades of research expertise in superconducting magnet systems, cryogenics, and fusion technology. She has made vital contributions to flagship projects like KSTAR, K-DEMO, and ITER, leading multi-million-dollar development efforts. A committed advocate for women in STEM, she represents Korea at international physics conferences and plays key roles in national scientific committees. Dr. Lee has authored over 60 peer-reviewed publications and continues to lead innovative research on high-field magnet design, quench analysis, and thermo-hydraulics. Her contributions significantly advance global nuclear fusion efforts, showcasing both technical excellence and visionary leadership.
Professional Profile :
Scopus
Summary of Suitability for Award:
Dr. Hyunjung Lee is a highly accomplished researcher with a robust and diverse academic and professional background in fusion energy and superconductivity. She has extensive experience in superconducting magnet systems and cryogenic technologies, leading significant projects like the development of superconducting magnets for the K-DEMO and KSTAR fusion reactors. As a principal investigator at the Korea Institute of Fusion Energy (KFE), her work involves cutting-edge research in fusion physics, including the design, analysis, and operational stability of superconducting magnets. Dr. Hyunjung Lee is undoubtedly a suitable candidate for the “Best Researcher Award”, due to her impactful research, leadership in large-scale international projects, and her contributions to the advancement of fusion energy technology. Her innovative work in superconducting magnet systems has advanced both scientific understanding and practical applications in fusion energy, making her an outstanding candidate for this prestigious award.
🎓Education:
Dr. Hyunjung Lee completed her Ph.D. in Physics at Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea, in 2003. Her doctoral research focused on the behavior of materials in extreme magnetic fields and low temperatures, setting the stage for her future work in superconducting systems. Prior to that, she earned her B.S. in Physics from Daegu University in 1997. Her strong academic foundation enabled her to transition seamlessly into high-level research, with early postdoctoral training at the Korea Basic Science Institute (KBSI). Dr. Lee’s educational background reflects a deep commitment to fundamental physics, with an application-driven focus on fusion energy systems and superconducting technologies. Her continuous engagement with advanced analytical and cryogenic systems throughout her education laid the groundwork for her leadership in magnet design and thermo-hydraulic simulation for nuclear fusion applications.
🏢Work Experience:
Dr. Lee began her career as a Postdoctoral Associate (2003–2006) at the Korea Basic Science Institute (KBSI), where she researched material properties under extreme conditions. She then joined the Korea Institute of Fusion Energy (KFE) in 2006, advancing from Senior Researcher to Principal Investigator. From 2006–2013, she focused on thermo-hydraulic and quench analysis for KSTAR and K-DEMO superconducting magnets. Between 2013–2015, she contributed to cryogenic system design for the RAON project. From 2016–2018, she also served as an Associate Professor at the University of Science and Technology (UST), teaching accelerator and fusion physics. Her key achievements include designing 16T superconducting magnets, establishing experimental facilities (~$30 million), and collaborating with global fusion initiatives such as ITER, ENEA, and General Atomics. She is currently a leading figure in Korea’s national fusion reactor (K-DEMO) magnet program and a central voice in international fusion technology forums.
🏅Awards:
While Dr. Hyunjung Lee’s CV does not list specific named awards, her achievements are reflected through her prestigious roles, international collaborations, and scientific committee appointments. She serves as an Executive Officer in the Korean Physical Society’s Academic and Women’s Committees (2021–present), showcasing her leadership in Korea’s physics community. She has been a Mentoring Fellow of the Korea Foundation for Women in Science and Technology (2008–2020), guiding the next generation of scientists. Her appointment to the Peaceful Unification Advisory Council (2015–2017) reflects national recognition beyond science. Dr. Lee frequently represents Korea in international conferences, including the International Conference on Women in Physics and the Magnet Technology Conference, evidencing her global stature. Her research is highly regarded in fusion communities and continues to influence policies and project planning at the international level. Her awards lie in the transformative impact of her research and leadership across nuclear fusion initiatives.
🔬Research Focus:
Dr. Hyunjung Lee’s research is centered on superconducting magnet systems and cryogenic thermo-hydraulics for nuclear fusion reactors. Her core contributions span magnet design, quench analysis, and the establishment of fusion magnet experimental infrastructure. A key architect of Korea’s K-DEMO and KSTAR fusion magnet programs, she focuses on developing high-field (up to 16T) superconducting magnets and advanced quench protection mechanisms. Her work includes detailed thermo-hydraulic modeling, AC loss analysis, and cooling loop simulations to ensure cryogenic stability. She also leads international collaboration on magnet technologies with partners like ITER, ENEA, and General Atomics. Dr. Lee has also contributed to the RAON rare isotope accelerator project, analyzing cryogenic systems for linear accelerators. Her research directly advances fusion energy’s feasibility, offering safe, efficient, and scalable superconducting systems for future reactors. She is a thought leader in fusion technology development, particularly in enabling long-term stability of superconducting devices under high-stress operations.
Publication Top Notes:
Design Updates of a Fusion Superconducting Conductor Test Facility Magnet (SUCCEX)
Assessment of KSTAR Nb₃Sn Superconducting Magnet Property After Long-Term Operation Since 2008
Effect of Flow Imbalance on the Operational Performance of the KSTAR PF1UL Magnets
Design Updates and Thermo-Hydraulic Analysis of K-DEMO CS Magnets
Thermo-Hydraulic Analysis of the KSTAR PF Cryogenic Loop Using SUPERMAGNET Code
Citations: 1