The ABCD lab. people

Principal Investigator

Wuhyun KOH, Ph.D.

I earned my Ph.D. in neuroscience at the University of Science and Technology (UST) under the supervision of C. Justin Lee, where I studied the impact of gliotransmission via Best1 on cognition. Through this work, I became interested in when cognitive functions begin to emerge and how astrocytes contribute to their formation, which led me to focus on developmental research.

Since 2021, I have been pursuing this line of work as a Young Scientist Fellow, and since July 2024, I have been continuing it as a Senior Research Fellow. Our lab mainly explores the roles of astrocytes in neurodevelopmental disorders. Outside the lab, I enjoy running and watching movies.

Ph.D. Student (Chungnam National University)

Erva OZKAN, M.Sc.

I am a PhD student in the ABCD Lab, and my research focuses on the role of astrocytes in memory formation and GABA catabolism in the developing brain. I am keen on understanding how astrocytes shape early brain development, and how these processes influence the transition into adulthood in both health and disease models. Outside the lab, I enjoy spending time in nature and feeling grounded.

Master's Student (Ewha Womans University)

Hayoung KIM, B.Sc.

I received my bachelor's degree in Life Science and Counseling Psychology from Handong Global University. Currently, I’m exploring the role of Ankyrin-2 in astrocytes, especially how it shapes memory. I’m endlessly fascinated by the brain’s complexity and excited about uncovering how astrocytic morphology connects to memory formation. Beyond the lab, I love expressing creativity through music and cherishing time with friends.

Visiting Scientist (Department of Medicine, Eulji University)

Yeong ho JI, M.Sc.

I graduated in Applied Life Science at Gyeongsang National University and earned an M.S. in Cancer Biology. My research focuses on the stomach–brain axis and vagus nerve circuits to enhance neuroplasticity. I enjoy board games and badminton, and I aim to clarify vagus nerve circuit regulation.

Researcher (Institute for Basic Science)

Gyubin JANG, M.Sc.

I received my M.S. degree in Brain and Cognitive Sciences from DGIST, where I studied synaptic diversity and specificity with a focus on in vitro neuronal culture and electrophysiology-based analyses. I am currently working in the ABCD Lab under the Dr. Wuhyun Koh, investigating astrocyte morphology and functions in neurodevelopment. My research interests on how astrocyte-specific mutations and early-stage infections during developmental periods contribute to neurological disorders, and how these mechanisms can be translated into potential therapeutic strategies. Outside the lab, I enjoy attending concerts and watching movies as a way to recharge.

Researcher (Institute for Basic Science)

Kyeong-Seon MIN, M.Sc.

I received my Master’s degree from Pusan National University, where I also worked as a student researcher at the Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB). During that time, I focused on studying the mechanisms and potential treatments related to neurological and psychiatric conditions.
I am now a researcher in the ABCD Lab under Dr. Koh, exploring how astrocyte functions change across different developmental stages. I’m particularly interested in how hibernation affects the developing brain and what these mechanisms might tell us about neurodevelopmental disorders. Outside the lab, I love taking walks on nice days, discovering instagrammable cafes with desserts, and cooking at home to unwind.