Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology
Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB) represents South Korea's premier government-funded research institution dedicated to advancing life sciences and biotechnology innovation. Established in 1985 as part of Korea's strategic investment in emerging technologies, KRIBB has evolved into a world-class research center conducting cutting-edge investigations across molecular biology, genetic engineering, bioinformatics, and pharmaceutical development. The institute's mission encompasses not only fundamental research but also translating scientific discoveries into practical applications that benefit human health, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. KRIBB operates under the Ministry of Science and ICT and functions as a core member of Korea's national research institute network, collaborating extensively with universities, hospitals, and industry partners to accelerate biotechnology development. The institute has played pivotal roles in Korea's biotechnology achievements, including genome sequencing projects, development of biosimilar technologies, and establishment of biological resource banks. Its reputation attracts top scientists from around the world, making KRIBB a hub for international collaboration in life sciences research. While primarily a research institution, KRIBB offers graduate education programs through its KRIBB School of Bioscience, providing master's and doctoral training for students seeking careers in biotechnology research. This educational mission allows KRIBB to cultivate the next generation of Korean bioscientists while providing students unparalleled access to advanced research facilities and mentorship from leading scientists. The integration of education and research creates a dynamic environment where scientific training occurs at the cutting edge of biotechnology innovation.
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
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- Student:Faculty
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- Setting
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- Graduation Rate
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- Retention Rate
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- Tuition (In-State)
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- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Student life at KRIBB differs substantially from traditional university experiences, reflecting the institute's identity as a research laboratory that happens to train graduate students. The Daedeok science complex provides a focused environment for research work, with fewer of the social activities and organizations found at conventional universities. Graduate students spend most of their time in laboratories, working alongside full-time researchers on ongoing projects. The research intensity means long hours are common, particularly when experiments require extended monitoring or data collection. Social connections form primarily within research groups and among fellow graduate students. The broader Daedeok community includes researchers from many institutes, creating opportunities for networking and collaboration. Daejeon city offers urban amenities including restaurants, entertainment, and cultural venues for breaks from laboratory work. Housing options include institute accommodations and private apartments in Daejeon. The relatively affordable cost of living in Daejeon compared to Seoul makes student budgets more manageable. Transportation within Daedeok requires private vehicles or buses, as the area's suburban layout doesn't support easy walking between facilities. The focused research environment suits students who prioritize scientific training over traditional college experiences.
Location & Surroundings
Daedeok Innopolis, where KRIBB is located, represents Korea's most ambitious science and technology development project, concentrating research institutes, universities, and companies in a planned community dedicated to innovation. The area sits within greater Daejeon, Korea's fifth-largest city and a major transportation hub in the center of the country. The planned nature of Daedeok means spacious campuses with modern facilities, green spaces, and purpose-built infrastructure for research activities. Daejeon itself offers a full range of urban services including shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural venues. The KTX high-speed rail connects Daejeon to Seoul in about an hour, making the capital accessible for meetings, conferences, and cultural activities. The climate brings hot, humid summers and cold winters, with four distinct seasons. Living costs in Daejeon remain considerably lower than in Seoul, stretching both salaries and student budgets further. The concentration of research institutions creates a unique culture oriented around science and technology, with less of the commercial bustle found in other Korean cities. Mountains surround the area, providing opportunities for hiking and outdoor recreation. The Daejeon Expo Science Park offers family-friendly attractions. The KTX connection also provides access to other Korean cities including Busan, making weekend travel convenient.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Graduate study at KRIBB through UST typically includes financial support that covers tuition and provides stipends for living expenses. The exact amounts depend on the specific program and funding situation, but most students receive enough to cover basic living costs in Daejeon. The relatively affordable cost of living in the city means stipends stretch further than they would in Seoul. Additional support may be available through research project funding or institute programs. International students need to budget for visa costs, insurance, and initial settlement expenses. Career prospects for KRIBB graduates are strong within Korea's biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors, which have grown substantially and continue to expand. Research institute positions, including at KRIBB itself, employ graduates who want to continue in basic research. Universities hire graduates for faculty positions, particularly as they complete postdoctoral training. The biotechnology industry, including both Korean companies and multinational firms with Korean operations, recruits graduates with specialized research skills. Some graduates launch startups based on technologies developed during their research. The network of connections formed during graduate study provides ongoing career support. The international nature of scientific research means some graduates pursue opportunities abroad, while others from outside Korea may remain for positions in the country's growing biotech sector.
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