Prof. Dr. Canan Atılgan, member of Sabancı University Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, was elected a member of the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO).
In its statement, EMBO, which aims for scientific research and collaboration, said that the extraordinary scientists elected for membership were appreciated for their contributions covering a wide range of life science research, including unraveling the molecular secrets of life and deepening our understanding of the concepts of health and disease. It was emphasized that these achievements reinforce the critical role that life sciences research plays in the lives of citizens in Europe and around the world.
Expressing that she felt proud and happy to be selected as an EMBO member, Atılgan said the following: “This success is thanks to all our students who have worked so far in our research laboratory, especially our lifelong research partner, our professor Ali Rana Atılgan, all the researchers we have collaborated with in the past and currently, and all my students who have opened new doors for me with their questions over the years. Sabancı University's multidisciplinary education and research environment, which allows me to pursue my curiosities, has been the most important factor in my ability to make a meaningful scientific contribution to the discipline of molecular biology, even though I come from a different educational background.”
EMBO has more than 2,000 members, including some of Europe's and the world's leading molecular biologists and Nobel laureates. Being elected an EMBO Member means the recognition of a scientist's extraordinary achievements in the field. EMBO Members influence the direction of European science by guiding the execution of EMBO Programs and activities. In this way, they contribute to the organization's goals of supporting talented researchers at every stage of their careers, encouraging the exchange of scientific information, and enabling the creation of research environments where scientists can carry out their work.
EMBO's programs are supported by the European Molecular Biology Conference (EMBC), an intergovernmental organization consisting of 30 member countries, including Turkey. EMBO has 5 members from Turkey.
It was noted that, this year, 60 full members and 9 associate members were elected as EMBO Members, 35 of whom are women and 34 are men.