Tsai-Kun Li

Vice President, for R & D
Development Center for Biotechnology

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Prof. Li earned a bachelor’s degree in Microbiology in Taiwan and received a US fellowship in 1994, soon completing his Ph.D. in Molecular and Biochemical Pharmacology. Since 2003, he has led research in “DNA topoisomerases and chromatin biology.” His main research areas include:
The regulatory roles of topoisomerases in gene expression, DNA repair, mutagenesis, and tumor pathology.
The development of topoisomerase-targeting drugs for clinical use.
Tumor micro-environments, focusing on hypoxic inflammation, microbiota, and extracellular vesicles in epigenetics. 
Beyond his research, Prof. Li is a prominent figure in advancing biomedical technologies and fostering the "University Bio-industrial and Entrepreneur Ecosystem." He has played a key role in the establishment of the tri-national GIP master's program and the NTU International College. As a result of his efforts, Prof. Li has led numerous scientific and educational projects, including the NTU SPARK initiative, and developed on-job-training programs and workshops.
 
Prof. Li’s leadership extends to his role as Vice President of R&D at the Development Center for Biotechnology (DCB), where he oversees the division. His regulatory work has contributed to key approvals, such as the Taiwan Regenerative Medicine Act (2024) and the inclusion of NGS analysis in Taiwan's National Insurance coverage. These advances have accelerated progress in AI-driven medicine and pharmaceutical manufacturing automation. Additionally, Prof. Li is focused on AI-enabled green chemistry, bio-catalysis, and biomanufacturing, aiming to transform the drug industry.

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Opening Remarks and Moderator for Panel Discussion

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