Faculty , Gebze Technical University , Turkey .
Professor Ferruh Özcan is a distinguished academic in Molecular Biology and Genetics at Gebze Technical University. With a comprehensive background in biochemistry, he has contributed significantly to understanding cellular signaling and stress responses. His innovative research focuses on the role of SIK2 in cellular processes, particularly in relation to obesity and metabolic disorders. Professor Özcan has supervised numerous graduate theses, nurturing future scientists in the field. His dedication to both education and research is evident through his leadership roles and active participation in scientific projects.
Profile
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Education
Professor Özcan received his Bachelor’s degree in Science from Hacettepe University in 1991. He pursued a Master’s degree at San Diego State University, completing his thesis on DNA methylation in 1997. In 2003, he earned his Doctoral degree from Boğaziçi University, studying serine/threonine kinases and FGF signaling pathways. He further expanded his expertise with a Postdoctoral fellowship at Yale University’s Department of Pharmacology, where he explored growth factor signaling. This rigorous academic foundation underpins his extensive research career in molecular biology.
Experience
Professor Özcan has held various academic positions, culminating in his current role as a professor at Gebze Technical University. He has supervised numerous Master’s and Doctoral theses, guiding students in groundbreaking research. His tenure includes leadership as Head of the Molecular Biology and Genetics Department from 2020 to 2023. Additionally, he has been involved in several national and international research projects, collaborating with various institutions. His work includes developing optical biosensors and studying the molecular underpinnings of cellular stress responses, contributing to advancements in biomedical science.
Awards and Honors
Throughout his career, Professor Özcan has received notable awards, including the NATO-B1 in 2004, recognizing his contributions to science. He was also awarded a scholarship by the Higher Education Council in Turkey in 1993, which facilitated his academic pursuits. These accolades reflect his commitment to excellence in research and education, solidifying his reputation as a leading scientist in molecular biology and genetics.
Research Focus
Professor Özcan’s research primarily centers on the role of SIK2 in cellular signaling, particularly concerning obesity and metabolic disorders. He investigates the mechanisms of endoplasmic reticulum stress and its implications for adipocyte differentiation and function. His work contributes to understanding how cellular pathways interact under stress conditions, offering insights into potential therapeutic targets for metabolic diseases. Through his research, he aims to elucidate the molecular dynamics of growth factor signaling and its relevance to human health.
Publications
- SIK2: A Novel Negative Feedback Regulator of FGF2 Signaling. Advanced Biology, 2024.
- SIK2 Controls the Homeostatic Character of the POMC Secretome Acutely in Response to Pharmacological ER Stress Induction. Cells, 2024.
- Effects of Fungal Based Bioactive Compounds on Human Health: Review Paper. Informa UK Limited, 2023.
- Monosodium Glutamate Restricts the Adipogenic Potential of 3T3‐L1 Preadipocytes through Mitotic Clonal Expansion. Cell Biology International, 2020.
- Pluronic PF68 Increases Transfection Efficiency in Electroporation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Turkish Journal of Biology, 2016.
- SIK2 is Involved in the Negative Modulation of Insulin Dependent Muller Cell Survival. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci., 2013.
- Attenuation of Signaling Pathways Stimulated by Pathologically Activated FGF Receptor 2 Mutants Prevents Craniosynostosis. PNAS, 2006.
- On the Nature of Low and High Affinity EGF Receptors on Living Cells. PNAS, 2006.
- Expression and Possible Function of Fibroblast Growth Factor 9 in Postnatal and Adult Retina. J Neurosci Res, 2005.
- Role of DNA Methylation at GATC Sites in the dnaA Promoter. J Mol Microbiol Biotechnol, 2000.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Professor Ferruh Özcan’s extensive background, notable research contributions, and leadership in the field make him an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award. While there are areas for potential growth, his strengths far outweigh these considerations. His dedication to research and mentorship highlights his significant role in advancing molecular biology and genetics.