"30th Anniversary Memorial Service for the Late Cho Baik-hyun, the First Dean of SNU CALS and the Presentation of the Hwanong Award"

 On November 6th, the 30th anniversary memorial ceremony for the late Dean Cho Baik-hyun (華農) and the 32nd Hwanong Award ceremony were held in the conference room of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences at Seoul National University. The event was attended by over ten distinguished guests, including the Dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and directors of the Hwanong Research Foundation, along with numerous professors and students gathered to honor the awardees.

 The 32nd Hwanong Award was bestowed upon Professor Seon-Yeong Kwak from the Department of Biomaterials Science and Engineering. Established through a scholarship fund created by the late Professor Cho Baik-hyun, the first dean of the College of Agriculture at Seoul National University, the Hwanong Award aims to support emerging researchers. Professor Cho, through his generous contributions, provided the prize money and operational costs to initiate the award in 1987. In 1993, the Hwanong Research Foundation was established to systematically recognize outstanding professors under 50 years old who have made significant contributions to agricultural science. To date, 44 exceptional agricultural scientists have been honored, with this year’s award going to Professor Kwak.

 Professor Kwak's research, encapsulated in her paper "In vivo surface-enhanced Raman scattering nanosensor for the real-time monitoring of multiple stress signaling molecules in plants," published in Nature Nanotechnology in 2022, represents a significant advancement in sustainable smart agriculture. Her work introduces a non-destructive nanosensor that leverages "nano HI plasmon" properties to detect stress-related signals in living plants in real time. This innovative technology translates plant chemical signals into digital form, enabling early detection of both biological stresses, such as fungal infections, and environmental stresses, like temperature fluctuations. Her research lays the groundwork for smart agriculture practices that can diagnose plant diseases and respond promptly, significantly contributing to agricultural sustainability. Professor Kwak was lauded for her technical prowess in designing a nanosensor capable of detecting multiple targets simultaneously and accurately observing chemical signals in plants.

 In her acceptance speech, Professor Kwak expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating, “The Hwanong Award is a great encouragement and support for young scientists, and it is an immense honor. I will continue to dedicate myself to my research.” She also thanked her professors and mentors at the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences for guiding her during her undergraduate years and helping her recognize the potential in agriculture. Acknowledging her collaborators and students, she emphasized that “this award is a testament to their collective efforts,” and pledged to continue her diligent research.

 The event also commemorated the 30th anniversary of the passing of Dean Cho Baik-hyun, with a tribute speech and a dedication lecture celebrating his profound impact on agricultural science and his unwavering commitment to nurturing future generations. A plaque from the university's President was presented in his honor. Dean Cho Baik-hyun's enduring legacy in advancing agricultural science education and research remains a cornerstone of the Hwanong Foundation’s mission, ensuring his vision continues to inspire and shape the field.