Asst. Prof. Murat Alper Cevher of the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics has been awarded a European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) Installation Grant.
He is among ten scientists who have been selected to receive the grant this year. The objective of the EMBO Installation Grants is to support young scientists working in the life sciences and allow them to establish their own research groups.
Dr. Cevher’s project “Characterization of Mediator–Estrogen Receptor (ER) Interaction” focuses on characterizing the structure and function of the mediator–ER interaction surface and generating small molecule inhibitors targeting this interface that will specifically prevent the activation of ER target genes. This preventive action is expected to slow down or, better, stop the progression of ER-dependent breast cancer.
EMBO Installation Grants are awarded annually for the purpose of strengthening science in selected EMBO member states. Scientists chosen as grantees receive 50,000 euros annually for three to five years from their host countries. The grantees are also integrated into the EMBO Young Investigator Program, which provides networking opportunities and a range of career development programs.