We are currently working on a regenerative bioadhesive hydrogel biomaterial designed for use in ocular surface chemical injuries. This interdisciplinary research project focuses on promoting corneal epithelial regeneration through a biodegradable material capable of releasing growth factors locally at the injury site.
We are looking for curious, motivated, and passionate undergraduate students interested in biotechnology and interdisciplinary science to join our team as STAR scholarship fellows!
Project Overview:
Vision impairments caused by ocular surface injuries can significantly reduce quality of life and may result in permanent damage. In addition to autograft and allograft procedures, one important therapeutic strategy involves stimulating epithelial regeneration in the corneal region, enhancing local proliferation and differentiation.
Within this project, a bioadhesive, biodegradable hydrogel will be designed to sustain adhesion to the corneal surface and locally release growth factors, supporting the tissue repair process.
Who Can Apply?
We welcome applications from undergraduate students enrolled in:
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Faculty of Medicine
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Department of Chemistry
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Department of Materials / Metallurgical Engineering
Application Requirements (per TÜBİTAK STAR Guidelines):
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Must be a Turkish citizen or hold a Blue Card.
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Not employed full-time or part-time at any institution.
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Enrolled in an undergraduate program at a higher education institution in Turkey.
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Ranked within the top 200,000 in the national university entrance exam (based on the score type used for their current degree program):
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If ranked in the top 100,000, GPA must be 2.0 or higher.
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If ranked between 100,001–150,000, GPA must be 3.0 or higher.
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If ranked between 150,001–200,000, GPA must be 3.5 or higher.
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Must not have previously received support from the STAR program.
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Must be registered in the TÜBİTAK ARBİS system: arbis.tubitak.gov.tr
The duration of the STAR fellowship is up to 6 months.
Contact
If you are interested in joining the project and becoming a TÜBİTAK STAR Fellow, please reach out via email:
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For Medical Students:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eray Atalay – 📧 eatalay@ogu.edu.tr -
For Chemistry and Materials/Metallurgical Engineering Students:
Specialist Mol. Biologist Merve Nur Soykan – 📧 mervesykn@gmail.com
Dr. Burcugül Altuğ Tasa – 📧 burcugulaltug@gmail.com