Boğaziçi University's Assoc. Prof. Banu İyisan Honored for Breakthrough in Cancer Research

Assoc. Prof. Banu İyisan from Boğaziçi University’s Institute of Biomedical Engineering has been recognized in this year’s “For Women in Science” program for her pioneering work on smart nanomedicine targeting aggressive triple-negative breast cancer.

Boğaziçi University's Assoc. Prof. Banu İyisan Honored for Breakthrough in Cancer Research

Now in its 23rd year, the “For Women in Science” program—organized by L’Oréal Türkiye in collaboration with the Turkish National Commission for UNESCO—celebrates women scientists whose innovative research is shaping the future of science. Among this year’s four awardees is Assoc. Prof. İyisan, whose project stands out for its potential to transform cancer treatment.

Her team is developing multifunctional nanomedicine systems made entirely from natural biomaterials. Designed to enhance treatment efficacy while minimizing side effects, these smart and sustainable drug delivery systems offer a targeted and patient-specific approach to cancer therapy—particularly for treatment-resistant cancers such as triple-negative breast cancer.

Nature-Inspired Nanomedicine for the Future of Cancer Care

Drawing inspiration from nature, İyisan’s research envisions a new generation of biocompatible, intelligent therapeutics that could one day extend beyond breast cancer to address other challenging cancer types.

With its strong tradition of interdisciplinary innovation, Boğaziçi University continues to make an impact in Turkey and around the world. Assoc. Prof. İyisan’s success reaffirms the university’s leadership in advancing health technologies and redefining approaches to cancer treatment.