Lee Keun Woo
Noyori Laboratory
As of January 2024
What's your impression of the chemistry lab?

Upon entering the chemistry lab, I was struck by the overall high level of the environment. From the undergraduate level, students are able to engage in activities such as entering the laboratory, progressing projects, and gaining experience in environments that are typically only found in the professional world.

Please tell me about your research theme and your research. What is the most enjoyable or exciting aspect of your research?

I am conducting research on using catalysts to convert carbon dioxide into fuel. This research is motivated by societal challenges such as environmental issues and resource depletion. We are striving to devise solutions to these problems, and in our research, we use the field of molecular catalysis to convert carbon dioxide into useful fuel.

This laboratory encompasses various fields of chemistry, including organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and analytical chemistry. This allows us to learn new things every day and gives a sense of achievement when our own ideas materialize into tangible results.

What are you thinking about for your future?

I aim to obtain a doctoral degree abroad, particularly in Europe. Chemistry is a highly competitive field, so I want to broaden my horizons and strengthen my capabilities to compete in such a challenging environment. My ultimate life goal is to work in international organizations, particularly in the field of resource management, to deliver energy to people in developing countries.

Why did you choose the Faculty of Science at Nagoya University for your enrollment? What was the reason for choosing the Department of Chemistry?

I entered Nagoya University as an international student, so I had decided to major in chemistry from my first year. Since I was young, I have often pondered over things with a sense of curiosity, wondering why things are the way they are. This curiosity led me to develop an interest in nature and science. Additionally, Nagoya University’s Faculty of Science is known for attracting many Nobel laureates in chemistry, which was also an aspiration for me to study here.