Spectrum of Science

by T. Gökalp Elaçmaz

Engage with leading academic minds in "Spectrum of Science," a podcast that delves into the transformative arenas of science and education. Discover the personal journeys of trailblazing scholars, explore bold critiques of current educational paradigms, and grapple with the fundamental questions shaping our world. Designed for aspiring academics, educators, policy-makers, and intellectually curious listeners, this podcast ai ... 

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Podcast episodes

  • Season 1

  • 11 | Asst. Prof. Seçil Gönültaş | Developmental Psychology, Bullying, Theory of Mind, Inclusion of Refugees, Bystander Effect

    11 | Asst. Prof. Seçil Gönültaş | Developmental Psychology, Bullying, Theory of Mind, Inclusion of Refugees, Bystander Effect

    Dr. Seçil Gönültaş stands as a beacon in the realm of adolescent psychology, particularly in her nuanced exploration of bullying, bystander intervention, and intergroup relations. Her prolific body of work, ranging from the social inclusion of refugee and native peers to the intricate dynamics of theory of mind, showcases not only her academic rigor but also her deep commitment to understanding the multifaceted experiences of young individuals. Dr. Gönültaş's research, especially her focus on bias-based bullying and the experiences of immigrants and refugees, is a testament to her empathy and dedication to fostering inclusivity and understanding. Beyond her impressive academic achievements, her work reflects a character deeply invested in the betterment of society, driven by a genuine desire to bridge divides and champion the cause of marginalized groups. Her contributions to the field are both invaluable and inspiring, painting a picture of a researcher whose heart and intellect work in tandem to illuminate the complexities of human behavior and relationships.

  • 10 | Prof. Dr. Abdullah Atalar | Being a Rector, Bilkent University, Silicon Fingers, Transducers, Applied Physics

    10 | Prof. Dr. Abdullah Atalar | Being a Rector, Bilkent University, Silicon Fingers, Transducers, Applied Physics

    Abdullah Atalar, a distinguished applied physicist and former rector of Bilkent University, has had a remarkable journey marked by academic excellence and impactful leadership. From his early days as a top student, graduating with a perfect 4.00 GPA from Middle East Technical University (METU), he showcased his commitment to learning and research. His academic journey laid the foundation for a successful career bridging academia and industry, offering valuable insights into their similarities and differences. At Stanford University, Atalar gained further experiences that influenced his perspective on education and research. His tenure as the rector of Bilkent University for 12 years allowed him to understand the intricacies of university leadership, making important decisions that shaped the institution. Dr. Atalar's dedication to improving higher education is evident in his work on innovative funding solutions for universities in developing countries, addressing critical global challenges in academia. Throughout his career, Atalar's passion for advancing imaging techniques, particularly in acoustic and atomic force microscopy, has been central. His pioneering work in these areas showcases his commitment to scientific exploration and precision. Looking forward, Abdullah Atalar continues to explore new research frontiers, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and the advancement of applied physics. His life and career stand as a beacon of inspiration for those aspiring to make a significant impact in the world of science and education. Here is our conversation, welcome to the Spectrum of Science.

  • 9 | Dr. Miri Besken | Perceptual Fluency, Cognitive Psychology, Metamemory, Perception of Memory Processes

    9 | Dr. Miri Besken | Perceptual Fluency, Cognitive Psychology, Metamemory, Perception of Memory Processes

    Today, we're thrilled to have Dr. Miri Besken, a distinguished figure in psychological research, especially in the realms of memory and metamemory. Dr. Besken's groundbreaking work has significantly advanced our understanding of how we perceive and predict our memory processes, particularly through her exploration of the perceptual fluency hypothesis. In today's episode, we're eager to explore Dr. Besken's journey in science, her impactful research, and how her findings bridge the gap between complex psychological theories and everyday understanding. Please join me in welcoming Dr. Miri Besken to the Spectrum of Science podcast.

  • 8 | Dr. Pınar Önal | Genetics, Gene Editing, Evolutionary Biology, Developmental Biology

    8 | Dr. Pınar Önal | Genetics, Gene Editing, Evolutionary Biology, Developmental Biology

    Today, we're honored to have Dr. Pınar Önal with us, a distinguished figure in genetics and developmental biology. Dr. Önal's groundbreaking research, particularly in the realms of transcription networks and the evolution of proteins like Bicoid in Drosophila, has shed light on the complex mechanisms driving phenotypic diversity and evolution. In our conversation, we'll delve into Dr. Önal's scientific journey, her passion for unraveling the mysteries of genetic regulation, and her significant contributions to the field of evolutionary biology. We'll also discuss the challenges she's overcome, her most impactful research findings, and her vision for the future of her field.

  • 7 | Asst. Prof. İlyas Chachoua | Genetics, Biology, Gene Editing, Gene Gating, CRISPR/CAS9, Cancer

    7 | Asst. Prof. İlyas Chachoua | Genetics, Biology, Gene Editing, Gene Gating, CRISPR/CAS9, Cancer

    Dr. İlyas Chachoua stands at the forefront of groundbreaking research that delves deep into the intricate world of chromatin and its pivotal role in gene expression. His meticulous exploration into the nucleus's organization, particularly the nuanced differences between the A and B compartments, has shed light on the complexities of the gene gating mechanism and its profound implications for gene expression. Beyond the technicalities of his work, which encompasses the innovative use of tools like the CRISPR/Cas9 system and confocal microscopy, Dr. Chachoua's dedication to understanding oncogenes signals a beacon of hope in the relentless battle against cancer. His insights into the potential therapeutic targets for cancer, driven by a deeper comprehension of the gene gating mechanism, are nothing short of revolutionary. But it's not just his scientific acumen that sets him apart; it's his unwavering passion and curiosity. Inspired by the intricate relationship between chromatin organization and gene expression, Dr. Chachoua's vision for the future of cancer therapy and his predictions about diseases potentially linked to disruptions in the gene gating mechanism showcase a mind that's both analytical and visionary. Here is our conversation, welcome to the Spectrum of Science.