Sezgin Gunes | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Academic Researcher Award

Prof. Sezgin Gunes | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Academic Researcher Award

Ondokuz Mayis University | Turkey

Prof. Sezgin Gunes is a renowned academic leader and medical researcher whose career has been defined by an unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge in medical biology and reproductive sciences. As Chair of the Department of Medical Biology at the Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, she has led pioneering research in molecular medicine, andrology, and clinical genetics. Her scholarly journey reflects a distinguished blend of academic leadership, mentorship, and impactful contributions to scientific literature. Through international collaborations, high-impact publications, and mentorship of young researchers, Prof. Sezgin Gunes has established herself as one of the leading voices in reproductive health and molecular biology.

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Education

Prof. Sezgin Gunes holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from Middle East Technical University, followed by a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Biology from the Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University. Her solid academic foundation in biology and medical sciences enabled her to pursue a successful career as a researcher and educator. She further enhanced her expertise through a competitive research fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic in the United States, where she worked at the American Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology. This international training allowed her to engage with global leaders in reproductive health and to develop innovative perspectives on male infertility and molecular diagnostics. Her academic path demonstrates both intellectual depth and a consistent focus on bridging fundamental science with clinical application.

Experience

Prof. Sezgin Gunes has risen through the academic ranks with distinction, serving in multiple leadership and teaching roles at Ondokuz Mayis University. Beginning as a faculty member in Medical Biology, she progressed to leadership roles where she currently chairs the department while also contributing to the Graduate Institute’s Department of Multidisciplinary Molecular Medicine. Beyond her institutional roles, she has played an important part in mentoring both undergraduate and postgraduate students, supervising their research, and guiding them in scientific publishing. Her international engagements include mentoring summer internship programs at the Cleveland Clinic, where she inspired young researchers in reproductive medicine. She has also been actively involved in scientific project management, European Union projects, and advanced training in assisted reproductive techniques. Her career represents a combination of research excellence, administrative leadership, and dedication to academic mentorship.

Research Interests

The research contributions of Prof. Sezgin Gunes are focused on andrology, male infertility, and the molecular mechanisms underlying reproductive health. Her investigations explore sperm DNA fragmentation, chromatin quality, oxidative stress, gene expression, and cytogenetic alterations that contribute to male infertility. In addition, her work on epigenetics and urological malignancies has advanced understanding of how environmental, genetic, and molecular factors interact in reproductive dysfunctions and cancer development. She has explored the role of microRNAs, promoter methylation, and polymorphisms in idiopathic infertility, contributing critical insights into personalized medicine approaches. Her research is not only groundbreaking in the academic sense but also has important translational applications, influencing diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies in clinical practice.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout her career, Prof. Sezgin Gunes has been recognized with numerous distinctions, fellowships, and certifications that reflect her dedication to advancing science and education. She has been honored with opportunities to conduct research at leading international institutions, gaining exposure to cutting-edge reproductive medicine technologies. Her professional development includes certifications in scientific project management, European Union project management, and advanced training in assisted reproduction. These achievements highlight her versatility as both a scientist and a leader. Her recognition is not limited to academic achievements but also extends to her role as a mentor, project leader, and collaborator in international research networks.

Publications

Prof. Sezgin Gunes has authored an impressive portfolio of publications in leading international journals, making significant contributions to reproductive medicine, molecular biology, and clinical genetics. Her widely cited works include:

  • Smoking and male infertility: an evidence-based review
    Journal: The World Journal of Men’s Health
    Published on: 2015
    Citation: 379

  • Effects of aging on the male reproductive system
    Journal: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics
    Published on: 2016
    Citation: 320

  • Spermatogenesis, DNA damage and DNA repair mechanisms in male infertility
    Journal: Reproductive Biomedicine Online
    Published on: 2015
    Citation: 275

  • The role of epigenetics in idiopathic male infertility
    Journal: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics
    Published on: 2016
    Citation: 167

  • Role of genetics and epigenetics in male infertility
    Journal: Andrologia
    Published on: 2021
    Citation: 159

  • Association of interleukin‐10 gene polymorphisms with severe generalized chronic periodontitis
    Journal: Journal of Periodontology
    Published on: 2007
    Citation: 104

  • Polymorphisms of the serotonin-2A receptor and catechol-O-methyltransferase genes: a study on fibromyalgia susceptibility
    Journal: Rheumatology International
    Published on: 2008
    Citation: 100

Conclusion

Prof. Sezgin Gunes stands out as a visionary researcher, accomplished academic, and respected leader in medical biology and reproductive medicine. Her contributions to the understanding of male infertility, gene expression, cytogenetics, and epigenetics have had profound impact in both research and clinical contexts. With an outstanding record of scientific publications, international collaboration, and mentorship of future scientists, she represents the model of a globally engaged and impactful researcher. Her achievements and leadership make her an ideal candidate for the Best Academic Researcher Award, reflecting her dedication to advancing science and improving human health through innovative and meaningful research.

SİNEM OZTURKLER | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. SİNEM OZTURKLER | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

University of Kocaeli | Turkey

Dr. Sinem Öztürkler is a dedicated academic and healthcare professional specializing in child health and diseases nursing. With a profound background in nursing and a growing research portfolio, she has committed her career to enhancing maternal and child health outcomes through education, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Currently serving at Kocaeli University, she actively contributes to academic growth, scientific advancement, and healthcare education in Turkey and internationally.

Professional profile👤

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Strengths for the Awards✨

Lect. PhD Sinem Öztürkler demonstrates commendable academic and research credentials, especially in the field of pediatric and maternal health nursing. Her doctoral dissertation on obsessive-compulsive behaviors and breastfeeding self-efficacy reflects an original contribution to nursing science. She has multiple peer-reviewed publications, including in high-impact journals such as the Journal of Pediatric Nursing (2024, SCI-Expanded) and Healthcare for Women International (2022, SSCI), indicating both international visibility and relevance of her research topics. Her contributions span across burnout in pediatric nurses, maternal fatigue, and nursing care during pandemics, addressing critical and timely healthcare issues. She has also co-authored a book chapter on childhood immunization, further enriching academic literature.

🎓 Education

Dr. Öztürkler holds a Ph.D. from Sakarya University, Institute of Health Sciences (2019–2023), where her research focused on obsessive-compulsive behaviors and breastfeeding self-efficacy in mothers of preterm and low birth weight infants. She earned her postgraduate degree from Halic University (2012–2014) and completed her undergraduate studies in Nursing at Balıkesir University (2007–2011). Her educational path reflects a strong commitment to health sciences and continuous learning.

💼 Experience

Since 2019, Dr. Öztürkler has been a Lecturer Ph.D. at Kocaeli University. Beyond her teaching duties, she contributes to institutional development as a member of the Department Quality Commission and the Adaptation/Exemption Committee. She also teaches key courses such as Pediatric Nursing and First Aid at undergraduate and associate levels. Her early clinical career began at Kocaeli University Hospital, where she worked as a nurse, bridging practice and academia.

🔬 Research Interests On Health Professions

Dr. Öztürkler’s research interests revolve around child health and diseases nursing, maternal mental health, breastfeeding self-efficacy, postpartum behaviors, and pediatric care challenges during disasters. She has participated in funded projects, such as the QR code-supported newborn care education program for mothers of preterm infants, demonstrating her innovative approach to maternal-child healthcare.

🏆 Awards

In 2023, Dr. Öztürkler was honored with the Mustela Foundation Midwifery and Nursing Award, recognizing her excellence in maternal and child health research. This prestigious award, shared with collaborators, highlights her impactful contributions to evidence-based nursing practices in Turkey.

📚 Publications

Journal Articles (SCI, SSCI, AHCI Indexed):

Other Journal Publications:

Book Chapter:

  • Öztürkler, S., & Dede Çınar, N. (2020). “Bağışıklama ve Aşılar.” In Anne ve Çocuk Sağlığı İlk 1000 Gün, Akademisyen Kitabevi, pp. 381–417.

📝 Conclusion

🌟 Lect. Dr. Sinem Öztürkler exemplifies the qualities of a committed academic and healthcare professional. With impactful research in pediatric and maternal health, award-winning initiatives, and active academic service, she is a strong contender for recognition in her field. Her dedication to advancing child health nursing and maternal well-being, both through empirical studies and educational innovations, marks her as a rising star in health sciences.