Pioneering New Frontiers in Life Sciences
Exploring the Convergence of Buddhism and Life Sciences
Denis Noble, a world-renowned physiologist and authority in systems biology from the University of Oxford, UK, was appointed as the first endowed chair professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST) on the 17th.
Professor Noble is expected to contribute to biological research and talent development in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at DGIST. On the 24th, he will meet students for the first time at a special lecture held at DGIST titled "GENES ARE NOT THE BLUEPRINT FOR LIFE," where he will share his future research philosophy and vision.
Denis Noble is a physiologist and pioneer of systems biology who, in the 1960s, created the world’s first Virtual Heart, laying the foundation for modern cardiac electrophysiology. He proposed an integrative perspective that goes beyond genetic determinism?the idea that genes (DNA) determine everything?by suggesting that organisms themselves generate the necessary changes to adapt to their external environment, thus forming a new paradigm in life sciences.
His book, The Music of Life, conveyed the insight that living organisms should be understood as the result of interactions among cells, tissues, and the environment to audiences worldwide. Recently, he gained significant acclaim in academia by substantiating his arguments against gene-centric views during scholarly debates with Richard Dawkins, author of the global bestseller The Selfish Gene.
In particular, Professor Noble has forged a deep connection with Korea by exploring new healing possibilities at the intersection of life sciences and philosophy. During his visit to Korea in 2019, he discussed the fusion of Buddhist philosophy and life sciences, continuing academic exchanges with the Korean scientific community. He especially noted that the Korean Buddhist worldview aligns with his systems biology research and has continuously sought opportunities to collaborate with Korean researchers.
As the first endowed chair professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at DGIST, Professor Noble aims to nurture the next generation of science and technology talents by contributing to undergraduate and graduate education. He will begin his activities with a special lecture introducing his research philosophy and vision to DGIST students on the 24th and plans to continue academic exchanges with students in the field of systems biology.
Meanwhile, the Department of Biomedical Engineering at DGIST was established to integrate life sciences and engineering to develop medical and biomedical technologies and to achieve world-class results in research on major diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and neurological disorders. Notably, the first incoming student is a licensed medical doctor (MD) who will participate in research, further strengthening the integration of clinical practice, engineering, and science. Collaboration between Professor Noble, an authority in systems biology, and MD researchers is highly anticipated. This is expected to lead to new life science research that goes beyond the traditional gene-centric approach.
DGIST President Lee Gun-woo stated, “Professor Denis Noble is a pioneer of systems biology, and his research and educational philosophy will greatly contribute to DGIST’s leap toward becoming a global research-oriented university.” He added, “We believe Professor Noble’s rich experience and insights will not only enhance DGIST’s research capabilities but also inspire students’ learning.”
Starting with the appointment of Professor Denis Noble, DGIST plans to actively invite world-class scholars to further strengthen its research and educational capabilities.
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