Yeon-Jun Chung, M.D., Ph.D.Ā
Director, Catholic Precision Medicine Research CenterĀ
The Catholic Precision Medicine Research Center was established in 2017 after preparation beginning in 2015, with the vision of becoming a hub for precision medicineāthe future of healthcare. During this time, we have built a solid foundation for the practical application of precision medicine through research utilizing cancer gene panels and other initiatives.
Currently, the Center is actively conducting various cutting-edge research projects, including the development of genomic analysis technologies for cancer and complex diseases, disease gene analysis panel development, patient-derived organoid research, and the development of molecular markers crucial for personalized treatment selection and disease prognosis prediction. Additionally, we are working to accelerate the practical implementation of precision medicine through analytical technology support for clinical applications, discovery of novel drug candidates, and training of precision medicine specialists.
Moving forward, we will continue to pursue our goals of strengthening education, expanding research support, and enhancing international collaboration in the field of precision medicine. With the inclusion of NGS-based cancer panel testing in national health insurance coverage, we plan to further accelerate the development and dissemination of Korean cancer panels. Furthermore, we intend to leverage the extensive network of the Catholic Medical Center to establish a precision medicine database and effectively integrate it into cancer treatment technology development and clinical practice. Throughout this process, we will dedicate significant efforts to the discovery and validation of novel molecular markers.
Ultimately, our Center's goal is to provide optimized healthcare services tailored to each individual patient. We look forward to opening new horizons in precision medicine through your continued interest and support.
Since its establishment in 2016, the Catholic Precision Medicine Research Center has achieved continuous growth through the research activities of its medical staff and research team.Ā
July 2016 - Application submitted for establishment of the Catholic Precision Medicine Research Center
October 2016 - Approval of establishment of the Catholic Precision Medicine Research Center
October 2016 - Appointment of Research Professor (Prof. Minho Lee)
February 2017 - Completion of Catholic Precision Medicine Research Center research facility
May 2019 - Awarded 2019 Seong-ui Best Research Institute Award [Regular Evaluation of University-Affiliated Research Institutes]
May 2020 - Appointment of Research Professor (Prof. Junseong Park)
September 2023 - Appointment of Research Professor (Prof. Jiyeon Park)
Establishment of Research Environment and Facilities
2017
- Launch of research analysis support services
I2019
- International symposium held (with single-cell analysis experts from Germany, Japan, Singapore, and Korea)
- Establishment of center operation regulations
2020
- Completion of lecture room system for real-time video education (Hospital Annex Room 1206)
- Installation of 10 PCs in IT training classroom, creation of large-scale genomics practical training environment
2021
- Additional installation of 15 PCs in IT training classroom
2022
- Expansion of IT training classroom: improvement of large-scale genomics practical training environment with installation of desks and 40 PCsĀ
The Catholic Precision Medicine Research Center has established a systematic organizational structure to advance cutting-edge precision medicine research and development. Led by the Center Director, the Operating Committee and Technical Advisory Department provide strategic direction and expert guidance for the Center. Building on this foundation, three core departments work collaboratively to shape the future of precision medicine.
1. Precision Medicine Technology Development Department
We research and develop the latest precision medicine technologies. Leveraging the expertise of our participating faculty, we create innovative diagnostic and therapeutic technologies and apply them to clinical settings.
2. Research Support Department
Specialized project researchers collaborate with participating faculty to conduct diverse research projects. Through in-depth research in the field of precision medicine, we generate significant academic achievements.
3. Education Support Department
We cultivate future talent in precision medicine and disseminate the latest knowledge and technologies. Through systematic education programs, we are committed to training specialists in the field.Through this organizational structure, our Center leads the advancement of precision medicine with a comprehensive approach encompassing research, technology development, and education. Moving forward, we will continue to contribute to providing optimized healthcare services tailored to individual patients through continuous innovation and collaboration.