Yesterday, I received the tenth edition of “Life Sciences: Challenging God” from East Asia Publishing. I find myself wanting to record the memories of gratitude contained within this book.

First, I must thank Professor Bang Yeon-sang, who invited me to a Yonsei University project on “Synthetic Biology” and “CRISPR-Cas9” just after I had finished my doctoral coursework. Professor Bang always called me “Dr. Kim” with respect, making me feel valued and sincerely cared for, even though I had not yet completed my degree.

From January 2015 to April 2016, I worked as a researcher for the first time, receiving a stipend that felt significant then. The joy of studying and debating passionately with other students interested in the field remains precious to me. Their names have been included in the acknowledgments of this book for the past seven years.

I had many first experiences through studying with four professors and students during that time. Professor Lee Sam-yeol invited me to give my first lecture on “Thinking ‘Synthetic Biology’ from a Holistic Perspective” at Yonsei University’s Songdo campus on June 3, 2015. Professor Lee shared valuable insights about life and faith during our walks and bus rides together, and I am still grateful for his kindness.

My first seminar at Yonsei University ICONS was on July 10, 2015, where I presented on the ethical and policy challenges of synthetic biology. The seminar highlighted the generosity of the professors who supported me. That winter, I participated in a panel discussion on science, philosophy, and religious freedom at the “Science and Society Forum” at Yonsei University, and the following spring, I gave my first academic presentation at the 2016 Spring Korean Religious Studies Conference.

The next year, after the publication of “Life Sciences: Challenging God,” I lectured on the philosophical and ethical implications of modern life sciences in Professor Song Ki-won’s class at Yonsei University. I am also grateful to Professor Kim Eung-bin, who has worked to popularize science through broadcasting.

My discussions with Bernard Lonergan scholars greatly influenced the book. My mentor at Sogang University, Professor Kim Jae-young, introduced me to Lonergan’s “Method in Theology,” which led to fruitful engagements with scholars worldwide.

The wisdom imparted by my advisor, Professor Jeong Jae-hyun, shaped the core insights of the book. Even after his retirement, I continue to apply his teachings in lectures and writings.

This book encapsulates my life and gratitude from December 2014 to March 2017. My academic focus has since shifted from life to the fundamental issue of suffering, which I now enjoy discussing with students.

Finally, I am forever grateful to my wife for her support while I wrote this book, providing food, prayers, and encouragement. I hope “Life Sciences: Challenging God” helps readers discover the Creator, the source of all life.