Dongjae Jun

Dongjae Jun serves as an Associate Professor of Biology in the College of Natural Sciences in Mathematics at Dallas Baptist University (DBU), a position he assumed in 2024. He teaches Modern Concepts in Biology for both science and non-science majors, as well as Anatomy & Physiology Labs. Prior to joining DBU, Dr. Jun spent 15 years at UT Southwestern Medical Center in the Department of Molecular Genetics, where he conducted research on cholesterol metabolism and Schnyder Corneal Dystrophy under Nobel laureates and National Academy of Sciences members.

Dr. Jun's educational background includes:

• B.S. in Life Science from Sungkyunkwan University (South Korea's oldest university)
• M.S. in Cellular and Molecular Biology from Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH)
• Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Endocrinology, and Neuroscience from POSTECH

His research expertise centers on molecular mechanisms of metabolic disorders, particularly Schnyder Corneal Dystrophy (SCD). He discovered a patented therapeutic molecule targeting UBIAD1 gene mutations that disrupt vitamin K2 synthesis and cause corneal cholesterol accumulation. Dr. Jun maintains longstanding interests in circadian rhythm neuroscience and actively explores interdisciplinary connections between scientific discovery, philosophy, and Christian theology, aiming to develop integrated curricula at DBU.

At UT Southwestern, Dr. Jun collaborated with elite scientists in cholesterol metabolism research. At DBU, he contributes to biology education while integrating his Christian worldview, reflecting Psalm 139:14's reverence for biological complexity. He serves as a "Mokja" (Shepherd) at New Song Korean Community Church and leads the "Friends" ministry for individuals with developmental disabilities.