Soryong Chae

Dr. Soryong Chae is a full Professor and Graduate Program Director in the Department of Environmental Engineering at the University of Cincinnati since 2024. He earned his B.S. (1998) from INHA University, M.S. (2000) and Ph.D. (2004) from KAIST in Civil and Environmental Engineering. His career spans academic positions at University of Sydney (Lecturer, 2010-2014), Duke University (Research Associate, 2007-2010), and Hokkaido University (Post-doctoral Fellow, 2004-2006), leading to his current role at the University of Cincinnati since 2015.

• Education:
  • B.S. Environmental Engineering, INHA University (1998)
  • M.S. Civil and Environmental Engineering, KAIST (2000)
  • Ph.D. Civil and Environmental Engineering, KAIST (2004)

Dr. Chae's research focuses on advanced water treatment technologies, particularly membrane bioreactors, nanomaterial-enhanced filtration systems, and salinity gradient energy generation. His work addresses critical challenges in:

• Cyanotoxin removal and harmful algal bloom management
• Electrochemical water treatment and contaminant degradation
• Nutrient recovery for circular economy applications
• Biofouling control in cold climate conditions
• PFAS removal using innovative membrane distillation
• Low-energy desalination and wastewater recycling

His grant portfolio demonstrates extensive federal, state, and industry support, including multiple NSF and EPA awards. Key grants focus on Legionella control in healthcare water systems, visible-light catalytic degradation of contaminants, and the Great Lakes ReNEW project for wastewater recycling and resource recovery.

Dr. Chae has received numerous scientific awards including:

• 2024 CEAS Distinguished Research Award
• 2022 CEAS Master Educator Award
• 2019 CEAS Early-Career Research Award
• 2016 ACS Environmental Chemistry Certificate of Appreciation
• 2014 University of Sydney Dean’s Teaching Award

With over 25 years of research experience, Dr. Chae has developed patented technologies for membrane cleaning, contaminant removal, and advanced oxidation processes, contributing significantly to water treatment innovation and environmental sustainability.