Assist. Prof. Dr. Wanhee Im | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Chungbuk National University, South Korea

Profiles

• ORICD Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Wanhee Im began her academic journey deeply rooted in the study of lignocellulosic materials, which would go on to define her research direction. She earned her Ph.D. from the Department of Forest Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Seoul National University, one of South Korea’s premier institutions. Her doctoral thesis, titled “Preparation and characterization of carboxymethylated cellulose nanofibrils”, laid a strong foundation in cellulose chemistry, focusing on optimizing carboxymethylation processes, improving environmental sustainability through isopropanol recycling, and analyzing the physicochemical characteristics of CM-CNF (carboxymethylated cellulose nanofibrils). Under the mentorship of Prof. Hak Lae Lee, she honed critical analytical and technical research skills that would shape her future endeavors.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Im has built an impressive professional trajectory, working across academia, industry, and research institutes. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Wood & Paper Science at Chungbuk National University, she leads projects focused on the functionalization of cellulose materials. Her career path includes pivotal roles such as Senior Researcher at Moorim P&P (2020–2024), where she developed high aspect ratio cellulose nanofibril powders. She also gained international research experience as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of British Columbia and a Visiting Researcher at FPInnovations in Canada, contributing to the development of high-strength paper for construction membrane applications. Her early career included R&D roles at Huvis Corp. and Seoul National University, where she contributed to polymer fiber development and chemical fiber modification.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Im’s research has consistently revolved around sustainable and functional cellulose-based materials. Her core expertise includes the chemical modification and characterization of cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) and the development of cellulose composites for advanced material applications. Notable contributions include innovations in eco-friendly carboxymethylation processes, recyclable solvent systems, and structural analysis of nanocellulose to tailor performance in fiber-based materials. At Moorim P&P and FPInnovations, she contributed to the commercial translation of nanocellulose technology, reinforcing her role as a bridge between research and industrial application.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Im’s work has significant implications in both academic and industrial domains, especially within sustainable material science and green polymer research. Her efforts in developing renewable, biodegradable alternatives to synthetic polymers resonate with global environmental initiatives. Her cross-continental collaborations in South Korea and Canada highlight her international research presence and technical leadership in cellulose science. Through her R&D leadership in industry, she influenced the commercialization of nanocellulose, proving her ability to translate laboratory innovation into market-ready technologies.

Academic Citations and Recognition

While specific citation metrics are not listed in the CV, Dr. Im’s ongoing academic role, international postdoctoral experiences, and leadership in cellulose research suggest a growing academic footprint. Her contributions are recognized through collaborations with top institutions like Seoul National University and the University of British Columbia, and partnerships with research organizations like FPInnovations, underscoring her visibility and recognition in the cellulose and materials science communities.

Technical Skills

Dr. Im is equipped with a broad array of technical proficiencies essential for advanced materials research: chemical modification techniques (carboxymethylation, CNF derivatization), polymer synthesis and analysis, fiber characterization (aspect ratio, strength properties), sustainable solvent systems and recycling methodologies, wet-laid fiber systems, and mechanical performance testing. These skills are integral to her success in both academic research and industrial product development.

Teaching and Mentorship

As an Assistant Professor at Chungbuk National University, Dr. Im actively engages in teaching and guiding undergraduate and graduate students. Her deep industrial experience provides students with practical, applied knowledge, while her research-led approach ensures students remain at the forefront of cellulose science. Her mentorship is shaped by global exposure, interdisciplinary understanding, and a commitment to sustainability.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Wanhee Im is poised to make lasting contributions to sustainable material science, with a continued focus on the development of functional, biodegradable, and high-performance cellulose-based materials. She envisions expanding the application of cellulose nanofibrils in energy, packaging, and construction sectors, aligning scientific innovation with environmental stewardship. As a rising academic leader, she is expected to influence curricula development, international collaboration, and next-generation eco-material research in South Korea and beyond.

Notable Publications

Effect of quaternization on the re-dispersion properties of cellulose nanofibrils after drying
Authors: Yoon-hyuck Choi, Soo-jeong Shin, Wanhee Im
Journal: Industrial Crops and Products
Year: 2025

Evaluation of print mottle of double coated paper by octave band filtering technique
Authors: Wanhee Im, Hye Jung Youn, Hak Lae Lee
Journal: BioResources
Year: 2024

Characteristics of polypropylene biocomposites: Effect of chemical treatment to produce cellulose microparticle
Authors: Jaegwan Moon, Jong Hoon Lee, Kiseob Gwak, Wanhee Im
Journal: Cellulose
Year: 2022

Wet strength improvement of nanofibrillated cellulose film using polyamideamine-epichlorohydrin (PAE) resin: The role of carboxyl contents
Authors: Wanhee Im, Shin Young Park, Jegon Lee, Simyub Yook, Hak Lae Lee, Hye Jung Youn
Journal: BioResources
Year: 2022

Dynamic water penetration behavior of top coating color and its effects on structure properties of double-coated layer
Authors: Wanhee Im, Hye Jung Youn, Hak Lae Lee
Journal: BioResources
Year: 2022