Near East University sets up centre for clinical research

Near East University has established a Clinical and Translational Research Center in Nicosia to support health research and help move scientific findings towards clinical applications, according to reports by Yeniduzen and Halkin Sesi.

The centre is intended to connect basic science with clinical needs while supporting work on diagnostic methods, treatments, health technologies and other research products. Its planned services include help with research planning, project design, data analysis, ethics procedures, funding applications and scientific publications.

Doctors, academics and health researchers, including those working at Near East University Hospital, are expected to use the centre. Undergraduate and postgraduate students will also be able to benefit from its activities.

The university says the centre will encourage joint projects between researchers in medicine, pharmacy, health sciences, engineering and technology. Its stated longer-term aims include developing national and international research partnerships, increasing participation in multicentre studies and improving access to research funding.

Leadership and research goals

Prof. Dr. Burçin Şanlıdağ has been appointed to lead the centre. The seven-member management board also includes Prof. Dr. Umut Gazi, Associate Professor Özlem Balcıoğlu, Associate Professor Ayşe Baha, Associate Professor Özgür Tosun, Assistant Professor Özlem Önder and Specialist Dr. Gökhan Pehlivan.

Near East University Board of Trustees Chair Prof. Dr. İrfan Suat Günsel said the centre formed part of the university’s aim to turn scientific production into social benefit. Rector Prof. Dr. Tamer Şanlıdağ said it was designed to provide systematic support throughout the research process and strengthen the quality and international impact of the university’s work.

The university also said the centre would support the involvement of young academics and students in research, alongside efforts to increase participation in multicentre studies and help research findings deliver practical benefits for patients and society.