Director's Message

The Biomedical Institute for Convergence at Sungkyunkwan University (BICS) was established in 2016 as SKKU’s central platform for biomedical convergence research. Our vision is to lead global research in advanced biomedical science and biotechnology, to grow into a top-10 global research institute in biomedical sciences, and to create real social value through pioneering biomedical research.

BICS is a research institute without walls that connects basic science, clinical medicine, engineering, and industry. We focus on two core missions: (1) building and operating shared core facilities, advanced equipment, and data platforms that support cutting-edge biomedical research across the university; and (2) identifying innovative core research areas and providing focused, long-term support so that selected groups can develop into truly world-class teams.

A key strategic pillar of BICS is biomedical AI. We are developing integrative AI platforms and disease foundation models that combine clinical data, multi-omics, imaging, and experimental results to enable precision diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy selection. These efforts are driven by close collaboration between SKKU researchers, Samsung Medical Center, and industrial partners, forming a strong academia–research–hospital–industry ecosystem.

Finally, BICS is committed to training convergence-minded researchers and building a sustainable talent pipeline through programs such as Meta-BioHealth, cross-departmental graduate tracks, and research internships. By strengthening infrastructure, nurturing excellence, advancing biomedical AI, and expanding strategic collaborations, BICS will continue to evolve as SKKU’s control tower for biomedical convergence and as a driving force for better health and a better future.