University, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics

I am pleased to introduce myself as Associate Professor Tuba YAGCI, a faculty member and deputy head of the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics at Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University's Faculty of Science. Our department, which began its academic journey in 2010, saw its first graduates in 2014 and has since maintained an impressive student enrollment rate of around 90% annually. Currently, our department is staffed by 3 professors, 5 associate professors, 1 doctoral lecturer, 2 instructors, and 3 research assistants.Molecular Biology and Genetics is a vast field of study that investigates living organisms from the molecular level to ecosystem level and their inter-relationships with the environment. It is also a field of research at the molecular level, cellular level, and the activities that occur within the cell. The data generated in this field have diverse applications in various disciplines, including medicine, biochemistry, agriculture, and food sciences. Our department conducts research in a wide range of areas, including recombinant DNA technology, cancer research, gene disease diagnosis, plant physiology, animal systematics, and genetics. This diverse research portfolio benefits our students by providing them with job opportunities after graduation and equipping them with the necessary skills for career development.Our undergraduate program begins with foundational courses in general biology, physics, mathematics, and chemistry in the first year. Over the next three years, students delve into specialized courses such as molecular biology, cell biology, and biochemistry, as well as specialized electives such as cancer biology, epigenetics, histology, and virology. Students also have the option of taking pedagogical formation courses. Besides, we offer master's and doctoral programs in our department.Our department has one student laboratory and four research laboratories, namely cancer genetics, animal genetics, molecular microbiology, ecological genetics, and molecular plant physiology. Our laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art devices and equipment required for molecular biology research. Students have access to a range of devices, such as PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) devices, deep freezers (-86 and -20), microscopes with various features, and gel imaging systems. Furthermore, our students can access the Biotechnology Application and Research Center within our university and use more advanced devices at the Central Research Laboratory.
Our department requires students to complete a 30-day internship. This internship can be done domestically or internationally, in the public or private sector. We have had students complete internships in countries such as England, Germany, and Italy. As part of the Molecular Biology and Applications course, students are able to develop their project management and writing skills with the help of their advisors. Students can also spend one or two semesters abroad through the ERASMUS program, and their course progress is monitored by ERASMUS coordinatorship. Our faculty members participate in national and international congresses and organize meetings to collaborate on projects. Upon graduation, our students have a variety of career opportunities, including working in medical sciences, genetic diagnosis, in vitro fertilization centers, forensic medicine, biomedical and pharmaceutical R&D laboratories, agriculture and food sectors, and academic institutions. Our department provides opportunities for students to participate in research laboratories to improve their skills and self-confidence. Prospective students who are interested in molecular biology and genetics should have manual dexterity, patience, and a love for research. Our university's central campus provides accommodation, dining, sports facilities, healthcare services, and cultural activities. Our students can also benefit from the KYK (Credits and Dormitory) in the campus, private dormitories, and apartments in the city center. The campus wellness center offers free sports lessons and school team activities, including a semi-olympic football field, two tennis courts, a bicycle path, and two indoor sports halls. We hope to see you at Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, and wish all students success in their university exams.