Mersin University, Türkiye
Established in 1992, Mersin University is a public higher education institution located in Mersin, Türkiye. Guided by the principle of “A World University in the Light of Science and Modernity,” the university is committed to academic excellence, innovative research, high-quality education, and societal development.
The Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Mersin University, is located in Mersin, southern Türkiye, a region with considerable agricultural, industrial, and environmental research potential. Established in 2016, following the launch of an interdisciplinary postgraduate programme in 2012, the department commenced undergraduate education in the 2018–2019 academic year. Its academic and research activities encompass several interdisciplinary fields, including plant biotechnology, molecular biology, genomics, microbial and industrial biotechnology, bioinformatics, metagenomics, and genetic engineering.
The department has a strong research-oriented approach, integrating fundamental biological sciences with advanced molecular and computational technologies. Research activities include plant genetic diversity and genomics, plant tissue culture, genetic engineering, microbial biotechnology, enzyme and fermentation technologies, environmental bioremediation, and the analysis of genomic and metagenomic data. These activities aim to address challenges in sustainable agriculture, food production, environmental protection, health, and industrial biotechnology.
The department is supported by specialized research infrastructure, including the Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Research Laboratory, Plant Genomics Research Laboratory, Bioinformatics and Metagenomic Analysis Laboratory, and Ancient DNA Research Laboratory, alongside facilities for undergraduate practical training. These laboratories support experimental and computational research, providing opportunities for students to develop practical skills and participate in scientific projects. The department also promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, national and international research partnerships, and international academic mobility through programmes such as Erasmus+.
Through its commitment to scientific innovation, research-based education, and collaboration with academic and industrial partners, the Department of Biotechnology aims to contribute to advances in modern biotechnology and the development of sustainable, science-based solutions to regional and global challenges.