Prof. Ook Joon Yoo served as the Director of BioMedical Research Center and professor of Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering at KAIST. He also performs an important role in the National Science and Technology council, as a member.

He began his research and teaching at the Department of Biological Science of KAIST from 1982 and he also was the Chairman of the Department. He served as the Director of Molecular Medicine Research Group supported by Ministry of Science & Technology. Besides, He was the Chairman of the Korean Bioscience and Biotechnology Association, and the President of the Korean Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Also, he served as the Executive-Vice President of the KAST during 2016-2019.

With his distinguished achievements as a molecular biologist, he was received diverse awards including the Order of Science and Technology Merit from Korea Government in 2015, Grand Research Award from KAIST in 2002, Research & Development Award from KAIST in 1996, and Honoring Award (Excellent Inventive Prize) from Daejeon City in 1999.

He received his B.S. from the Seoul National University, and his Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Chicago. His research interest covers genomics-based drug target discovery & validation, studies on genetic disorders.

He published more than 140 articles mostly through international journals in his research field. He also is the author of the book, BioMedical Research, which has been one of best and steady sellers for last 25years.

Currently, he is the President of the Korean Academy of Science and Technology (KAST).