Sun Moon University - South Korea
AUTHOR PROFILE
SUMMARY
Prof. Dr. Tae-Jin Oh is an esteemed researcher and academic leader in microbial biotechnology and metabolic engineering. Currently a professor at Sunmoon University, he plays a pivotal role in bio-convergence and secondary metabolite research, with contributions in enzyme engineering, genomic analysis, and biotechnological applications. He directs multiple research programs including BK21 FOUR and international plant resilience centers. His work spans from environmental microbiology to pharmaceutical biotechnology, contributing to scientific innovation and commercialization. His prolific research output, leadership in cross-disciplinary initiatives, and commitment to sustainable technologies mark him as a distinguished figure in modern bioscience.
EDUCATION
Prof. Oh completed his undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees at Sunmoon University, specializing in Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Metabolic Engineering respectively. He furthered his expertise through two postdoctoral fellowships—first at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, focusing on microbial secondary metabolism, and later at the University of Central Florida, concentrating on biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. This strong educational foundation enabled him to excel in enzyme characterization, genome sequencing, and natural product biosynthesis, which continue to define his academic and research trajectory in the biosciences field.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Prof. Oh has held progressive academic and research appointments at Sunmoon University, from Assistant Professor to Full Professor. His leadership roles include Director of the Genome-based BioIT Convergence Institute and the Global Center for Enhancing Plant Resilience. He also leads the BK21 FOUR Research Leader Training Program. His diverse experience spans academic instruction, high-impact research, and international collaboration. Through these roles, he has guided multidisciplinary teams in cutting-edge studies related to microbial genomics, environmental sustainability, and pharmaceutical biotechnology.
RESEARCH INTEREST
Prof. Oh’s research is rooted in natural product biosynthesis and microbial biotechnology. He focuses on the discovery and structural analysis of enzymes such as cytochrome P450s, glycosyltransferases, and CAZymes. His interests include bioconversion, protein crystallography, and microbial adaptations to extreme environments. He utilizes genomics, bioinformatics, and molecular docking for pathway elucidation and enzyme engineering. Additionally, he explores environmental biotechnology for industrial and agricultural applications, with a growing focus on omics-driven big data bio-convergence and sustainable microbial technologies.
AWARDS AND HONORS
Prof. Oh’s scientific leadership has earned him prestigious directorial roles in Korea’s national and global research initiatives, including the BK21 FOUR Program and international centers focused on plant resilience. His editorial contributions to peer-reviewed journals, frequent citations, and invitations to collaborate internationally reflect his respected standing in the biosciences. His appointments and project leadership reflect a high level of academic and research recognition at both national and international levels.
RESEARCH SKILL
Prof. Oh brings a versatile set of advanced research skills, including enzyme isolation, genome sequencing, and structural biology. His work in characterizing proteins involved in secondary metabolite biosynthesis—like CAZymes and cytochrome P450s—is complemented by molecular modeling and crystallographic studies. He employs omics approaches, in silico tools, and bio-conversion systems to design and engineer novel biological functions. His expertise extends to environmental microbiology and applied biotechnology, contributing to innovations in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and sustainable technologies.
PUBLICATIONS
Prof. Oh has authored numerous influential publications in high-impact journals such as Nature Communications, Frontiers in Microbiology, Journal of Biotechnology, and Computational Biology and Chemistry. His work covers a broad range of topics, including genome sequencing of polar microorganisms, functional enzyme analysis, and biosynthetic pathway elucidation. He has contributed to the development of AI tools for protein-ligand interactions and extensively published on enzyme engineering, microbial genomics, and novel biocatalysts. These publications highlight his multidisciplinary impact on biotechnology and microbial research.
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Title: Characterization of the Maduropeptin Biosynthetic Gene Cluster from Actinomadura madurae ATCC 39144 Supporting a Unifying Paradigm for Enediyne
Author: SG Van Lanen, T Oh, W Liu, E Wendt-Pienkowski, B Shen
Journal: Journal of the American Chemical Society
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Title: Advantages of single-molecule real-time sequencing in high-GC content genomes
Author: SC Shin, DH Ahn, SJ Kim, H Lee, TJ Oh, JE Lee, H Park
Journal: PloS One
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Title: Neocarzinostatin naphthoate synthase: an unique iterative type I PKS from neocarzinostatin producer Streptomyces carzinostaticus
Author: B Sthapit, TJ Oh, R Lamichhane, K Liou, HC Lee, CG Kim, JK Sohng
Journal: FEBS Letters
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Title: Genome-enabled discovery of anthraquinone biosynthesis in Senna tora
Author: SH Kang, RP Pandey, CM Lee, JS Sim, JT Jeong, BS Choi, M Jung,
Journal: Nature Communications
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Title: Enzymatic Synthesis of Apigenin Glucosides by Glucosyltransferase (YjiC) from Bacillus licheniformis DSM 13
Author: RB Gurung, EH Kim, TJ Oh, JK Sohng
Journal: Molecules and Cells
CONCLUSION
Prof. Dr. Tae-Jin Oh stands as a multifaceted scientist whose work integrates foundational science and real-world applications. His leadership in academia and global research programs has advanced the fields of biotechnology, microbial genomics, and enzyme engineering. With a strong publication record, international collaborations, and a focus on sustainable and data-driven innovation, Prof. Oh exemplifies excellence in modern bioscience. His career trajectory continues to influence emerging technologies and foster the next generation of scientific leaders.