Aziz Sancar: The Nobel Prize-Winning Scientist from Türkiye Who Changed Medicine

Aziz Sancar was born in 1946 in the small town of Savur, in southeastern Türkiye. Growing up in a modest family, he developed an early curiosity for science, inspired by the natural world around him. After completing his medical studies at Istanbul University, he moved to the United States to pursue advanced research in biochemistry and molecular biology.

Sancar’s most significant contribution came from his work on DNA repair mechanisms. His research revealed how cells fix damage caused by ultraviolet light and other harmful factors, a discovery that has had profound implications for understanding cancer and developing treatments. In 2015, his decades of dedication were recognized with the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, which he shared with two other scientists for their work on DNA repair.

Beyond his scientific achievements, Sancar is known for his humility and commitment to education. He has established scholarships in Türkiye to support young scientists and frequently speaks about the importance of perseverance in research. His story is a testament to how curiosity and hard work can lead to discoveries that benefit humanity.

Today, Sancar continues his research at the University of North Carolina, where he inspires the next generation of scientists. His legacy reminds us that great ideas can come from anywhere—and that science has no borders.