Dr. Jung Ho Hyun | Systems Neuroscience | Neuroscience Future Leader Award

Dr. Jung Ho Hyun,  Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science & Technology (DGIST), South Korea.

Jungho Hyun’s academic and professional journey showcases his deep commitment to neuroscience. From his early studies in biology and physiology to his advanced research in synaptic plasticity and neural circuits, he has continuously contributed to the field through groundbreaking work. His international research experiences at prestigious institutions have shaped his expertise, and his role as an Assistant Professor at DGIST allows him to inspire and mentor future scientists.

Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Jungho Hyun’s journey into the world of neuroscience began with a deep-rooted passion for understanding the complexities of the human brain. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Pusan National University in 2007, where he laid the groundwork for his future academic pursuits. Eager to delve deeper into physiological mechanisms, he pursued his Master’s degree in Physiology at Seoul National University College of Medicine, graduating in 2010 under the supervision of Won-Kyung Ho. His thirst for knowledge and unwavering commitment to scientific inquiry led him to continue his doctoral studies at the same institution, where he earned his Ph.D. in Physiology in 2015 under the mentorship of Suk-Ho Lee. His academic journey was marked by rigorous research and an insatiable curiosity to uncover the mysteries of neural function and dynamics.

🌐 Professional Endeavors

With a solid academic foundation, Jungho Hyun embarked on a journey of groundbreaking research and international collaboration. His postdoctoral tenure at the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) from 2015 to 2019 under the supervision of Hyung-Bae Kwon provided him with a global perspective on neuroscience research. He then transitioned to Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, where he served as a Research Fellow from 2019 to 2021. These years of international exposure refined his expertise in neural circuitry and synaptic plasticity, allowing him to make significant contributions to the field. In April 2021, he returned to South Korea to take on the role of Assistant Professor at Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), where he now leads his research group in the Department of Brain Sciences.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Jungho Hyun’s research primarily focuses on understanding the intricate mechanisms of neuronal activity, synaptic plasticity, and the functional architecture of neural circuits. His work combines cutting-edge imaging techniques with electrophysiological approaches to explore how neural connections form, function, and adapt. His research extends to investigating neurological disorders, aiming to provide insights into conditions such as epilepsy, neurodegenerative diseases, and cognitive impairments. His extensive work in neurophysiology has contributed to a better understanding of brain plasticity and its implications for memory and learning.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Jungho Hyun has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to neuroscience. His research has been published in prestigious scientific journals, earning him respect among peers in the field. His work at internationally renowned institutions such as Max Planck and Johns Hopkins has solidified his reputation as a leading neuroscientist. His ability to integrate experimental neuroscience with computational methods has been widely acknowledged, making his research valuable to both fundamental and clinical neuroscience communities.

🔄 Impact and Influence

Beyond his research contributions, Jungho Hyun has played a crucial role in mentoring the next generation of neuroscientists. As an Assistant Professor at DGIST, he actively engages in teaching and guiding young researchers, fostering an environment of curiosity and scientific rigor. His collaborations with international institutions have strengthened cross-border research initiatives, bridging the gap between different scientific communities. His work continues to inspire upcoming neuroscientists to push the boundaries of brain research.

🔦 Legacy and Future Contributions

Jungho Hyun envisions a future where neuroscience and technology converge to revolutionize our understanding of the brain. His research group at DGIST is dedicated to unraveling the fundamental principles of neural circuits and their role in brain function and dysfunction. By integrating advanced imaging techniques, optogenetics, and computational models, he aims to pave the way for novel therapeutic approaches for neurological disorders. His legacy is not only defined by his scientific contributions but also by his commitment to nurturing future scientists who will carry forward the quest for knowledge.

Publication

• A calcium-and light-gated switch to induce gene expression in activated neurons – D Lee, JH Hyun, K Jung, P Hannan, HB Kwon (2017)

• The locus coeruleus drives disinhibition in the midline thalamus via a dopaminergic mechanism – BS Beas, BJ Wright, M Skirzewski, Y Leng, JH Hyun, O Koita, … (2018)

• Activity‐dependent downregulation of D‐type K+ channel subunit Kv1.2 in rat hippocampal CA3 pyramidal neurons – JH Hyun, K Eom, KH Lee, WK Ho, SH Lee (2013)

• Intersectional monosynaptic tracing for dissecting subtype-specific organization of GABAergic interneuron inputs – MJ Yetman, E Washburn, JH Hyun, F Osakada, Y Hayano, H Zeng, … (2019)

• Tagging active neurons by soma-targeted Cal-Light – JH Hyun, K Nagahama, H Namkung, N Mignocchi, SE Roh, P Hannan, … (2022)

• Kv1.2 mediates heterosynaptic modulation of direct cortical synaptic inputs in CA3 pyramidal cells – JH Hyun, K Eom, KH Lee, JY Bae, YC Bae, MH Kim, S Kim, WK Ho, … (2015)

• Intracellular Zn2+ signaling facilitates mossy fiber input-induced heterosynaptic potentiation of direct cortical inputs in hippocampal CA3 pyramidal cells – K Eom, JH Hyun, D Lee, S Kim, HJ Jeong, JS Kang, WK Ho, SH Lee (2019)

• IgSF11 homophilic adhesion proteins promote layer-specific synaptic assembly of the cortical interneuron subtype – Y Hayano, Y Ishino, JH Hyun, CG Orozco, A Steinecke, E Potts, Y Oisi, … (2021)

• Serotonin in the orbitofrontal cortex enhances cognitive flexibility – JH Hyun, P Hannan, H Iwamoto, RD Blakely, HB Kwon (2023)

• Gradual decorrelation of CA3 ensembles associated with contextual discrimination learning is impaired by Kv1.2 insufficiency – K Eom, HR Lee, JH Hyun, H An, YS Lee, WK Ho, SH Lee (2022)

🎯 Conclusion

Jungho Hyun’s contributions to neuroscience extend beyond his research findings. His dedication to understanding the complexities of the brain, mentoring young researchers, and advancing interdisciplinary collaborations positions him as a leading figure in the field. As he continues to push the boundaries of brain science, his work will undoubtedly shape the future of neuroscience, paving the way for innovative discoveries and transformative medical advancements.