What drives our IMPACT Fellows? What groundbreaking research are they pursuing, and what personal motivations fuel their journeys? Through this bi-weekly interview series, we look into the minds of our fellows to uncover not just the science but the stories behind their work. Explore their experiences in the IMPACT programme and the unique perspectives they bring to their fields. This week we had the chance to interview Sinem Helvacıoğlu Akyüz.
Can you briefly describe your research project and its potential impact on society or the economy?
My research project, Space-Impact, focuses on understanding the effects of space travel on liver health and developing strategies to mitigate potential risks. Conditions experienced by astronauts during spaceflight, particularly microgravity, profoundly affect physiological functioning. This project aims to fill these knowledge gaps by investigating how microgravity impacts liver function and by developing countermeasures to ensure astronauts’ health during missions. The societal impact of this research is significant, as it not only ensures the safety and well-being of astronauts but also contributes to understanding liver health in extreme conditions. Additionally, this research supports the broader goal of enabling sustainable human exploration of space, fostering innovation in both medicine and space science.
Coming from Turkey, what unique perspective do you bring to your field of study at VUB?
Coming from Turkey, I believe my perspective has been shaped by the challenges and opportunities arising from my country’s rich cultural and historical diversity, as well as its dynamic advancements in science and technology.
Throughout my academic journey in Turkey, I have learned the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the value of blending diverse perspectives.
At VUB, I aim to contribute this unique combination of cultural understanding and innovative thinking to enrich the academic environment. By collaborating with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, I hope to offer new perspectives on our shared challenges.
What’s been the most surprising or valuable aspect of the IMPACT programme for you so far?
The most valuable aspect of the IMPACT programme so far is that it has allowed me to develop both personally and professionally. Collaborating with colleagues from various fields has broadened my understanding and introduced me to new ideas. During the 1st IMPACT Training Week, the Leadership and Gender Dimension sessions were particularly enlightening. The leadership sessions offered valuable insights, and I enjoyed the interactive group exercises, which were an enriching experience. Overall, the programme’s focus on skill development and real-world applications has had a significant impact on my academic journey and future goals.
If you could instantly become an expert in another field of study, which would you choose and why?
If I could instantly become an expert in another field of study, I would choose law. The reason for this is that law plays a critical role in shaping society and addressing complex issues that impact individuals, communities, and global systems. An in-depth understanding of legal principles would not only allow me to contribute to creating fairer policies and frameworks but also empower me to advocate for justice and human rights more effectively.
Last but not least: what’s your favorite invention of all time?
My favourite invention of all time is penicillin. As a pharmacist, I recognize the immense impact it has had on medicine and public health. Discovered by Alexander Fleming, penicillin revolutionized the treatment of bacterial infections, saving millions of lives and drastically reducing mortality rates. It marked the beginning of the antibiotic era and laid the foundation for the development of numerous other life-saving drugs. Its discovery not only changed the course of medical history but also continues to be a critical tool in combating infections and improving overall health.