Dr Berna Sayan
| Biography | Dr. Berna S. Sayan is a lecturer in Biomedicine at the University of Salford, with extensive experience in molecular biology, genetics, and biomedical research. She earned her PhD in Molecular Biology and Genetics from Bilkent University, Turkey, and has since built a dynamic academic career across leading UK institutions. Dr. Sayan previously held a lectureship at the University of Manchester, where she contributed to both research and teaching in biomedical sciences. She also served as a group leader and senior research fellow at the University of Southampton, leading projects on molecular mechanisms of disease. Earlier in her career, she was a career development fellow and later a scientific investigator at the MRC Toxicology Unit, where she explored fundamental aspects of cellular responses to stress and disease progression. Her research interests focus on molecular mechanisms underlying disease progression, with contributions to cancer biology and translational medicine. Over the years, she has successfully secured research funding, co-leading projects on novel biomarkers, therapeutic interventions, and academic scholarship in STEM education. Her publication record reflects her impact in the field, with over 30 peer-reviewed papers and a growing citation footprint (over 2100 citations, h-index: 21). Beyond her research in cancer biology and biomarker discovery, Dr. Sayan is deeply committed to enhancing student learning and academic transition. She has been actively investigating the impact of assessment language on student attainment, particularly in supporting students from diverse educational backgrounds. Her work focuses on improving clarity in academic expectations and assessment criteria to foster equitable learning experiences and bridge attainment gaps. Beyond research and teaching, she contributes to the academic community through peer review, PhD examinations, and committee memberships, including her involvement in the Athena Swan initiative for gender equality in academia. With a strong dedication to mentorship and interdisciplinary collaboration, she continues to advance both scientific discovery and education in biomedical sciences. |
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| PhD Supervision Availability | Yes |
| PhD Topics | 1- Regulation of Apoptotic Pathways in Cancer: Understanding Resistance Mechanisms and Their Therapeutic Implications. 2- Biomarker Discovery in Therapy Resistance: Investigating Apoptosis and Cellular Stress Responses in Tumour Progression. 3- Overcoming Therapy Resistance: Repurposing Targeted Drugs to Modulate Apoptotic Pathways. 4- Natural Products as Apoptosis Modulators: Enhancing Treatment Efficacy Through Synergistic Therapeutic Strategies. |