Innovative Perspective on Science at Istinye University: III. Young IVEK Student Summit

Istinye University (ISU) experienced an impressive day of science and innovation as it hosted the III. Young IVEK Student Summit on December 21, 2023. Organized by the Foundation for Medicine, Pharmacy, Health Sciences and Technologies (IVEK), the Young IVEK is a branch dedicated to supporting young individuals studying in the field of health. Its focus is on nurturing well-equipped, proactive individuals in the health sector who continuously strive for self-improvement.

The Young IVEK Student Summit, held at the Istinye University Vadi H Campus, began with the national anthem and a moment of silence. Following this, a piano recital consisting of compositions by condcutor Ömer Yusuf Topçu captivated the audience, emphasizing the universality of art and its ability to create unforgettable moments.

The summit, inaugurated with the opening speech by Ayşegül Tanrıverdi Kaya, Deputy General Manager of IVEK Foundation, brought together science enthusiasts to share and discuss the latest scientific developments. The keynote speech by Dr. Mahmut Tokaç, Chairman of the Board of IVEK Foundation, emphasizing science and freedom, garnered significant interest from participants.

After the speech by Prof. Dr. Atilla Akdemir, Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy at Istinye University, the stage was taken by Prof. Dr. Erkan İbiş, the rector of ISU. His innovative perspective on young people and valuable insights into the future with technology captured the audience's attention. Rector İbiş inspired the youth with solutions to the dynamic challenges of their era and provided a visionary approach to the rapid evolution of technology.

Prof. Dr. Hasan Mandal, President of TÜBİTAK, joined the III. Young IVEK Student Summit, presenting the latest developments in the scientific world. His informative presentation not only sparked the curiosity of the young participants but also highlighted the potential of science in the future and its value to society.

In the opening session, Prof. Dr. Burcu Özsoy, President of TÜBİTAK MAM, delivered a presentation on "Climate Change and Health: Future Threats and Solutions." She discussed the potential impacts of climate change on human health, emphasizing the importance of environmental sustainability and green energy in combating climate change.

During the "Science Academy Session" of the summit, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayça Bal Öztürk from the Faculty of Pharmacy at Istinye University presented the "Young Scientists Award Program-BAGEP," supporting young researchers in making significant contributions to the scientific community.

In the 3rd and 4th sessions of the Young IVEK Summit at Istinye University, industry experts shared insights: Pharmacist Berat Beran, Chairman of the Board of Berko Pharmaceuticals, discussed the "Journey of a Leading Pharmacist in the Industry - From Past to Future Career." Dr. Bilgen Dölek, Director of Market Access and Reimbursement at Amgen Biotechnology, presented "Biotechnology: The Significant Role of Science in Drug Development," providing motivational information to young science enthusiasts and all participants regarding understanding innovations in the industry and building careers in these fields.

The event, dominated by the presence of Istinye University's Faculty of Pharmacy, gained a unique perspective with presentations on technology by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pınar Çakır Hatır, Head of the Biomedical Engineering Department of the Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayfer Atav from the Faculty of Dentistry. In the final session, Dr. Oğuzhan Aydemir from the Faculty of Pharmacy at Istanbul University presented a highly acclaimed session titled "From Academia to the Cosmetic Industry: A Career Journey." Dr. Hakan Darıcı from the Faculty of Medicine discussed "Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare," shedding light on the transformation of the future of the health sector, providing important perspectives on the impact of artificial intelligence on health, and illuminating recent developments in science and technology.

The organization hosted by Istinye University provided young science enthusiasts with motivational information to understand innovations in the industry and build careers.