Prof. Dr. Serdar DURDAĞI

I am a scientist dedicated to advancing our understanding of protein-protein and protein-ligand interactions, with a focus on designing computational frameworks to address complex biological challenges. My research bridges molecular biology, chemistry, and computational science, with applications in rational drug design, molecular modeling, protein engineering, and molecular simulations. My overarching goal is to develop effective therapeutic strategies by harnessing both theoretical and computational approaches to explore the behavior and interactions of biological molecules.

At the heart of my research is the development of novel computational methodologies, with an emphasis on machine learning-based models for drug discovery. My lab has pioneered innovative approaches for structure- and ligand-based virtual screening, enabling the efficient exploration of ultra-large molecular libraries to identify promising therapeutic candidates. In addition to our de novo drug design efforts, drug repurposing has become a key area of focus, as we explore existing drugs for new therapeutic indications, expediting the drug development pipeline.

My research team’s work extends beyond theoretical studies—collaboration with experimental research groups plays a crucial role in validating our findings. Through these partnerships, we integrate computational models with experimental data to address complex biological questions and develop reliable insights into disease mechanisms. This synergy allows us to contribute to the rational design of innovative therapeutics that target diseases with high unmet medical needs.

Over the years, my contributions to the scientific community have been recognized through multiple prestigious national and international awards, reflecting the impact of my work. These honors include:

•    Turkish Academy of Sciences (TÜBA) Academy Award and Academy Medal (2023)

•    Health Institutes of Türkiye (TÜSEB) Aziz Sancar Incentive Award (2017)

•    The Scientific and Technological Research Institution of Türkiye (TÜBİTAK) Incentive Award (2016)

•    Science Academy BAGEP Award (2014)

•    Bahcesehir University (BAU) Respect for Science Awards:

◦                      25^th Year Special Science Award (2023)

◦                      Contribution to Science Award (2023)

◦                      Contribution to Society Award (2021)

◦                      Contribution to Science Award (2017)

In addition to my research achievements, I am honored to represent Türkiye on the international stage as the Ambassador of the Biophysical Society (BPS) for the 2024-2026 term. In this role, I aim to foster scientific exchange, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement within the biophysics field, contributing to the global scientific dialogue.

Through my work, I remain committed to the development of computational solutions for biomedical challenges, providing a deeper understanding of biological systems and laying the foundation for the discovery of next-generation therapeutics.