Reported by Dr. Yeonha Ju (Seminar Director of Austin TX Chapter)
Under the auspices of the Korean-American Scientists and Engineers Association (KSEA) Austin Chapter, a successful technical seminar was held on May 2, 2025, marking the final event of the 53rd Chapter year.
The event began with an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding student achievements from the 2025 KSEA National Mathematics and Science Competition (NMSC). Awards presented included the prestigious Texas Governor’s Award, the Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Houston Award, and the Samsung Award. These honors highlighted the remarkable accomplishments of local students and emphasized the chapter’s commitment to supporting youth education in STEM fields.
Following the ceremony, the technical seminar was presented by Dr. Joonyup Kim, Professor of Horticultural Science at Chungnam National University and an internationally recognized expert in plant biology. Dr. Kim delivered a compelling lecture titled “Four Shades of Detachment: Elucidation of Signaling Pathways that Regulate Abscission in Plants.” His research focuses on the molecular mechanisms behind abscission—the process through which plants shed organs such as leaves, flowers, or fruits. Using Arabidopsis as a model organism, Dr. Kim detailed how his research team has uncovered multiple signaling pathways and regulatory modules that coordinate organ detachment. He also emphasized the practical implications of understanding abscission, particularly in improving crop management and agricultural productivity.
The seminar drew participation from over 20 chapter members in person, and an additional nine students from Angelo State University joined virtually via Zoom. The event fostered interdisciplinary dialogue, with a lively Q&A session following Dr. Kim’s presentation, demonstrating the community’s strong interest in plant science and its broader implications.
In addition to the technical content, the seminar served as a platform for chapter leadership to provide a brief summary of the year’s accomplishments. Over the past year, the KSEA Austin Chapter has hosted multiple seminars, youth events, and networking opportunities, reinforcing its role as a hub for scientific collaboration and mentorship within the Korean-American community.
After the seminar, all attendees gathered at a nearby restaurant for an informal dinner, providing an excellent opportunity for continued networking and fellowship. This final gathering of the chapter year allowed members to reflect on shared achievements and discuss future directions for the organization.
The event exemplified KSEA Austin Chapter’s mission to connect scientists and engineers, promote STEM education, and support research collaboration. With the successful conclusion of this year’s activities, the chapter looks forward to another impactful year ahead.
* This article is also available on the KSES Austin Chapter’s website.
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