After obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations, I pursued further studies at the Erasmus Mundus Master in Global Studies programme. Following my studies, I joined Amnesty International Korea as a campaigns coordinator, working on human rights issues related to arms control, urgent actions in North Africa and the Middle East, and conscientious objection in South Korea. During my stay at PEACEMOMO, a peace education organisation, where my primary areas of focus were peace, security, disarmament, and peace education. Engaging in these activities provided me with a good understanding of how the individual body and society are interconnected and influenced at every level, from the personal to the social and structural spheres. Around that period, I encountered several illness, which led me into exploring disease, disability and the relationship between the body and public. I am excited to join the Ph.D. programme in the Department of Environmental Health Sciences at Seoul National University since the fall semester of 2023. I believe it presents a precious opportunity to connecting my experience and social activities with the academic field.

E-mail: hanui.wind362@gmail.com

I’m currently pursuing a Master's degree in Dept. of Environmental Health, after completing my Bachelor's degree in Biology. Throughout my research career, I have been involved in various fields. It started with my experience as a student researcher at the Ecological Conservation Laboratory at the National Institute of Ecology, followed by my work as a researcher at the Plant Cell Biology Lab at the Dept. of Biological Science at Seoul National University. These cell biology-based experiences have allowed me to gain practical knowledge in a wide range of biology research areas. In addition, I have actively involved in the field of disability, specifically focusing on working with youth with disabilities at the Seoul Junggu Youth Center. I also worked as a calligraphy therapy instructor for elderly with disabilities individuals at the Yongan Warm House. I have also received recognition as a science communicator. I was awarded the Grand Prize(Ministry of Science and ICT Award) at the Science Communication Contest, FameLab Korea 2019. Furthermore, I was selected as one of the top 11 finalists representing Korea at the FameLab International 2019 competition. My research primarily focuses on the social environment and premature aging among people with disabilities, as well as the field of Social-Epigenetics. I am particularly interested in the biological changes resulting from social environments. With a strong scientific background and practical experience, I aspire to gain a thorough, scientific understanding of the reality faced by people with disabilities in Korea. I hope our study will shed light on their experiences and make a meaningful impact.

E-mail: mj.jung@snu.ac.kr

I am currently enrolled in the Master’s in Public Health (MPH) program at the Seoul National University Graduate School of Public Health. I received my bachelor’s degree in Biology of Global Health from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., United States. During my undergraduate studies, I served as an undergraduate research assistant at the Huang Lab, investigating oligodendrocytes and glial cells and their potential therapeutic implications in the remyelination process of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Multiple Sclerosis (MS). My senior thesis project delved into the role of a specific gene and its modulation of inflammatory responses by classically activated macrophages (CAM). Through these experiences, I have developed essential laboratory skills and gained a deeper understanding of cell biology. Moreover, a year-long internship with the United States Health and Human Services (US HHS-ASPR) has further expanded my horizons and perspectives in the field of public health. At the DiSEPA research team, I aim to integrate my passion for biology and public health, focusing on epidemiological research that incorporates biomarkers related to premature aging among people with disabilities and their family members.

E-mail: hmk0507@snu.ac.kr 

I am currently pursuing a master's degree in public health at Seoul National University's Graduate School of Public Health. My academic background includes a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and International Relations with a major in Political Science, and minors in Biological Sciences and Statistics.

During my undergraduate studies, I investigated the impact of infectious diseases on the health inequality of individuals with disabilities, focusing on H1N1 Influenza, MERS, and COVID-19. Through media analysis, interviews, and critical examination of government responses, I explored the societal discourse on health inequality. My bachelor’s thesis examined the correlation between IMF bailouts and tuberculosis incidence, highlighting the mediating effect of political decision-making on government finances and suggesting links to cuts in social security and health spending based on political patronage. Beyond academia, I contributed to FREEMED, a health-focused NGO, where I served as the team leader for the Health Statistics Team. I managed statistical data, guided the team in creating result indices, and played a crucial role in overseeing the team's operations. Volunteering at the free medical center and conducting health education classes for the elderly, I further enhanced my practical experience in health-related fields.

Leveraging my diverse academic background and hands-on experience, I am committed to addressing health challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and their families. I aspire to contribute meaningfully to resolving these issues through my interdisciplinary knowledge and research skills.

E-mail: hmk0507@snu.ac.kr