Technical Group Symposiums
A-1. Physics (PHY)
Physics represents the ultimate pursuit of verifiable truths in our universe. The frontier spirit of this discipline has profoundly shaped and influenced many scientific fields, from particles physics to astrophysics, and from inanimate matter to living systems. The Physics Symposium will feature three oral sessions and a poster session, showcasing the breadth and depth of modern physics research across diverse disciplines. We particularly encourage abstract submissions from PhD students and early-career researchers who are exploring bold ideas using cutting-edge methodologies.
Chair: Harold Kim (Georgia Tech)
Co-Chairs: Wonhee Ko (University of Tennessee, Knoxville)
A-2. Chemistry (CHM)
Chemistry has been crucial not only for understanding nature on the molecular level but also for bridging other areas such as engineering and biology. Recently, it has significantly broadened its fields including biological chemistry, soft matter, energy and photonics. This year’s Chemistry Technical Group will organize symposia on the emerging research and industry areas. Leading researchers working at the forefront of these topics will be invited to discuss the cutting edge of research topics. Researchers, postdocs, and students working in academia, industry, and government laboratories are strongly encouraged to participate in scientific discussions and network building.
Chair: Kyo Young Han (University of Central Florida)
Co-Chairs: Hoi Sung Chung (National Institutes of Health), Kwang Seob Jeong (Korea University)
A-3. Mathematics, Geology, Meteorology, Statistics (MAS)
TBD
Chair: Soeun Kim (Azusa Pacific University)
Co-Chairs: TBD
B-1. Medical and Pharmaceutical Science (MPS)
Medical and Pharmaceutical Science (MPS) Symposium will bring together health scientists and professionals from industry, government, and academia to foster collaboration and address critical challenges in life sciences and healthcare. These fields—spanning life sciences, medicine, and pharmaceutical sciences—require interdisciplinary cooperation and effective teamwork to drive successful outcomes.
This year’s symposium will focus on three transformative areas: Oncology, Biomedical Informatics and Artificial Intelligence, and Medicine & Public Health. Each of these areas relies on strong interdisciplinary collaboration to advance research and deliver impactful results. The B-1 Symposium will feature three oral sessions and a poster presentation, providing participants with opportunities to present their latest research, exchange innovative ideas, and build new collaborations.
Chair: Soojin Yoo (University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley)
Co-Chair: Younghee Lee (Seoul National University)
B-2. Food, Agriculture, Ecology, and Nutrition (FAN)
Food, Agriculture, Ecology, and Nutrition Symposium (FAN) will provide professional opportunities for leading and rising scientists and engineers to share, discuss, and learn the latest scientific, and technical advances in various fields of agriculture, ecology, food, and nutrition in the US, Korea, and the world. The symposium covers all areas related to the UKC 2025’s topic, ‘Future Us: Advancing Science and Technology to Benefit Humanity from Earth to Space’. Areas include:
Agricultural sciences including agricultural & bio-engineering, agricultural economics & agribusiness agronomy, animal science, crop science, entomology, environmental science, horticulture, plant science, smart farming & prevision agriculture, soil science, veterinary sciences, and other emerging areas.
Ecology including behavioral & physiological ecology, community ecology, ecosystem, human ecology, landscape, population ecology, and other emerging areas.
Food sciences including food chemistry, food engineering, food microbiology, food nanotechnology, food processing, food safety & regulation, functional food, sensory science, and other emerging areas.
Nutritional sciences including community nutrition, intestinal microbiota and diets, international nutrition, gene & diet interactions, metabolic diseases, nutrient metabolism & physiology, muscle & protein metabolism, precision nutrition, nutrition, and other emerging areas.
Chair: Sung Woo Kim (North Carolina State University)
Co-Chair: Yangha Kim (Ewha Womans University), Si Hong Park (Oregon State University)
B-3/C-1. Biological and Biomedical Sciences (Biology, Molecular Biology, Cognitive Science, Botany, Zoology, Biomechanics, etc.) / Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering (BME)
As in any other major industry, problem solving in modern medicine increasingly requires a true convergence of many scientific and engineering fields. While some of the last frontiers of biomedicine, such as neuroscience and regenerative medicine, critically demands new ideas and tools from other disciplines, paradigm-shifting technological innovations in information science, nanotechnology, and robotics could open new opportunities in healthcare. At the same time, a new generation of engineers, "fluent" in many different languages of science, are creating entirely new fields to view the old questions with a fresh look. In the BME symposium, we strive to provide a stimulating forum for all researchers willing to go beyond the "comfort zone" to explore new opportunities in biomedical engineering.
Chair: James Moon (University of Michigan)
Co-Chairs: Young Bin Choy (Seoul National University), Youngjae Chun (University of Pittsburgh)
C-2. Chemical, Textile, Energy, and Nuclear Engineering (CHE)
This symposium provides a forum for leading experts and young researchers to present and discuss cutting-edge research advances in the broad areas of chemical engineering and related fields. Topics of interest include various aspects of such areas including (but not limited to) advanced nanomaterials/biomaterials, nanoscience/nanotechnology, and complex processes for energy, health, and environmental problems. Both experimental and computational approaches as well as synergistic methods to address grand challenges in aforementioned topics are welcome.
Chair: Hyun-Tae Hwang (University of Kentucky)
Co-Chairs: Jaewon Lee (University of Missouri), Tae-Sik Oh (Auburn University)
C-3. Mechanical, Aerospace, and Naval Engineering (MAN)
The Mechanical, Aerospace, and Naval Engineering (MAN) Symposium covers a wide range of related areas of mechanical design and system engineering, aerospace and aeronautics engineering, nuclear engineering, and naval architecture and system engineering, including AI/ML-applied research, energy materials and systems, 3D printing and additive manufacturing, robotics and controls, biomechanics, and nano materials. Experimental, theoretical, and computational studies are all welcome to the MAN symposium in the scope of studies. The MAN symposium facilitates networks and communications with participants, and fosters national and international collaborations on cutting-edge research in mechanical, aerospace, nuclear and naval engineering.
Chair: Eon Soo Lee (New Jersey Institute of Technology)
Co-Chairs: Hongseok Choi (Clemson University), Junsoo Kim (Northwestern University)
C-4. Materials Science and Engineering, Nanotechnology (MSE)
Materials innovation plays a pivotal role in tackling pressing societal issues linked to energy, the environment, and sustainability. The Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) symposium aims to unite leading scientists and engineers in the field, fostering a platform for fresh insights and opportunities to build connections for future collaborations. The symposium will delve into various topics, including electronic materials, functional materials, and nanomaterials, with a focus on advanced applications like micro/nanoelectronics, energy conversion/storage, and additive manufacturing. Additionally, the symposium will address novel approaches to materials design, synthesis, processing, characterization, and modeling.
Chair: Sung Woo Nam (University of California, Irvine)
Co-Chairs: Soon-Yong Kwon (Ulsan National Institute of Science & Technology)
C-5. Civil and Environmental Engineering, Architecture (CEA)
The 38th annual UKC conference brings together leaders in Civil, Environmental, and Architecture (CEA) Engineering to explore how innovative engineering solutions are shaping the future of sustainable, resilient, and smart communities. As we navigate the complexities of urbanization, climate change, and evolving technological landscapes, the CEA symposium focuses on engineering advancements that foster both resilience and sustainability. The symposium will highlight the integration of cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and smart sensors, into the design, construction, and management of infrastructure. These technologies are transforming how we approach buildings, transportation networks, and environmental sustainability, ensuring that the next generation of infrastructure is not only adaptive to future challenges but also promotes a sustainable and prosperous future. We invite thought leaders, researchers, and practitioners from across the globe to discuss solutions that bridge the gap between technology and environmental responsibility. Join us in Atlanta as we explore the future of engineering, where innovation, sustainability, and resilience converge to build smarter, more sustainable communities for tomorrow.
Chair: JuHyeong Ryu (West Virginia University)
Co-Chairs: Eul-Bum Lee (POSTECH)
C-6. Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE)
TBD
Chair: Jin W. Choi (Michigan Technological University)
Co-Chair: TBD
C-7. Computer and Information Sciences (CIT)
We are excited to announce the upcoming 2025 Symposium on Computer and Information Sciences (CIT), a premier conference dedicated to fostering collaboration and innovation in computer science and information technology. This symposium aims to unite a diverse range of participants, including esteemed researchers, influential practitioners, and leading industry experts, to engage in meaningful discussions about the latest advancements and groundbreaking innovations in the field. The CIT symposium will cover a wide array of research areas and developmental topics within the domains of computer science and information technology, with a particular emphasis on their applications in the arts and education. This convergence of ideas will facilitate cross-disciplinary dialogue and help identify new opportunities for leveraging technology to enhance creative and educational pursuits. A notable feature of the symposium is its role as a unique platform for connecting computer science and IT researchers and engineers from both academia and industry, especially focusing on participants from the US and Korea. This international cooperation will enrich discussions and promote collaborative projects aimed at addressing global technology challenges. Topics of discussion at the CIT symposium will include, but are not limited to, traditional and generative artificial intelligence (AI), including machine learning, deep learning, and natural language processing; data science; connected vehicles; augmented reality (AR); virtual reality (VR); art technology; music technology; computer education; software engineering; human-computer interaction (HCI); big data and data analytics; the Internet of Things (IoT); cybersecurity; and robotics. The CIT Symposium will feature a mix of regular sessions, where in-depth presentations will take place, and a poster session, offering participants the chance to present their research findings in a more interactive format. We look forward to a stimulating exchange of ideas that will pave the way for future innovations in computer and information sciences.
Chair: Sam Chung (City University of Seattle)
Co-Chairs: Jaerock Kwon (University of Michigan-Dearborn), Wonil Chung (Kyungpook National University), Jenny Boreum Ju (City University of Seattle)
C-8. Industrial, Manufacturing, and Systems Engineering, Management Sciences, Operations Research (IMS)
The Industrial Engineering and Management Science (IMS) Symposium focuses on advancing knowledge and practice by exploring innovative solutions to critical challenges in industrial systems, supply chain management, and emerging technologies. It addresses a wide range of topics, including intelligent systems, the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, and optimization techniques. These advancements are pivotal in driving innovation and efficiency across industries, facilitating smarter and more sustainable operations. Additionally, the symposium examines green supply chain management, digital transformation, and logistics integration, with a focus on enhancing resilience and adaptability in global networks. The symposium also explores interdisciplinary approaches, including the integration of operations management and marketing, policy analysis, and sustainability initiatives. It highlights the role of transportation networks and crisis management in developing robust systems capable of addressing complex future challenges. By combining advanced analytics, strategic management, and intelligent technologies, the IMS Symposium offers theoretical insights and practical solutions that address pressing issues. Through collaboration and knowledge sharing, it contributes to a deeper understanding of how science and technology can enhance human well-being and support global sustainability.
Chair: Hyesung Park (Georgia Gwinnett College)
Co-Chair: Ji-Hung (Ryan) Choi (Eastern Michigan University), Hyo Kyung Lee (Korea University)
D-1. Social Sciences (Anthropology, Economics, Political Science, Sociology, Public Policy, etc.), Psychology, Digital Arts, STEM Education, and Other Sciences (SSP)
The TG D-1 Technical Group Symposium seeks to advance the application of emerging technologies and cutting-edge research across key domains, including education, workforce development, engineering education, cybersecurity, and individual privacy. This symposium is structured into three focused sessions, and we invite researchers to contribute their insights and innovations to these critical areas.
Session 1: Transforming Education, and Workforce Development in the Age of AI: Bridging Research and Practice
This session explores the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on education and workforce development. Bringing together researchers and educators, the session delves into how AI is reshaping learning environments, fostering personalized education, and preparing individuals for rapidly evolving workforce demands. This session aims to equip attendees with actionable knowledge to harness AI’s potential while addressing ethical, social, and practical considerations. We welcome research studies, innovative frameworks, and collaborative projects that provide insights into effective strategies to integrate AI tools and practices, bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world application.
Session 2: Advancing Engineering Education for Humanity
This session highlights innovative approaches to educating engineers that benefit humanity. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to experiential learning, interdisciplinary curricula, equity in engineering education, fostering collaboration and innovation, envisioning the future of engineering education, and preparing engineers to address global challenges and adapt to an evolving technological landscape. Submissions should emphasize educational strategies in higher education and highlight the role of engineering education in empowering the next generation of engineers.
Session 3: Navigating the Digital Frontier: Government Strategies for AI, Cybersecurity, and Privacy
This session investigates the rapidly evolving intersection of criminal justice, cybersecurity, and individual privacy against a backdrop of accelerating technological change. Drawing on interdisciplinary research, presenters will explore topics including cryptocurrency-based money laundering, AI-driven crime prevention, social media challenges, and the societal implications of facial recognition technology (FRT). By weaving together these diverse threads, the panel provides a holistic perspective on emerging threats and the policy solutions needed to address them. Panelists will propose strategies to strengthen governmental and law enforcement responses, foster responsible regulation, and build public trust—underscoring the vital roles of digital literacy and nuanced media engagement in shaping the future of digital enforcement.
Chair: Jongpil Cheon (Texas Tech University)
Co-Chairs: Junghwan Kim (Texas A&M University), Benjamin Ahn (Ohio State University), Kyung-Shick Choi (Boston University)
UKC 2025 Poster Session
Chair: Sung-Sil Moon (KWISE)
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