Discussion at CIU on Scientific Research Culture

Biotechnology Research Center (BRC) of Cyprus International University (CIU) organized a seminar entitled “Scientific Research Culture and Interdisciplinary Cooperation Opportunities at CIU.”

In the event held in the conference hall of CIU Çevik Uraz Center, the Chief Advisor of the Biotechnology Research Center Prof. Dr. Mustafa Camgöz was the speaker, and the attendees were CIU Board of Trustees Chairman Mete Boyacı, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees Prof. Dr. Abdullah Öztoprak, CIU Rector Prof. Dr. Halil Nadiri, Vice Rectors and academicians. 

Rector Nadiri, in his opening speech, pointed out the importance of a culture of cooperation and interdisciplinary work for the continued success of scientific research, and said, "Scientific research is an integral part of our culture, and forms the foundation of our knowledge, understanding and progress."

Noting that faster progress can be achieved in the scientific field by combining the interests and skills of different disciplines, Nadiri also noted that interdisciplinary cooperation is beneficial in individual research.

Rector Nadiri also said that publications are the result of scientific research, and these are one of the most important indicators that institutions of higher education provide education at international standards. "The effects of our university's ever-increasing research output is clearly evident in the continuous increase in the number of publications and citations in scientific journals."

Chief Advisor Camgöz, on the other hand, explained what is necessary for young individuals to conduct good scientific research, and said, “The primary condition is motivation and enjoyment. Second, you need to create time. Third, you have the idea what to work on but lack the tools. Criteria are required to initiate a project. The fourth is money, the fifth is publication. If you do not have a publication, you cannot showcase your work to the world. The sixth is cooperation, it is necessary to work in groups.”

Stating that the BRC was founded in 2010, initially only three departments dwelt on studies related to cancer, environment and microbiology.  Camgöz added that in 2022, comprehensive studies began on cancer, environment, microbiology, nanotechnology and bioengineering.

Camgöz reminded that they received a TUBITAK project shortly after the establishment of BRC and that in addition to the TUBITAK project, they worked with the Cancer Research Foundation (CRF).  "We developed the Foundation with CIU in order to further the scientific research culture in our country and to invest in young researchers. CRF has awarded four scholarships so far. Our first scholarship recipient has received his doctoral degree.”