Özlem Usalan

Professor Özlem Usalan is a distinguished academic and clinician at Gaziantep University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, specializing in Nephrology. She currently holds the position of Professor and serves as the Department Head since 2021. Her academic career at Gaziantep University spans over two decades, progressing from Expert (2000-2004), to Lecturer (2004-2012), Associate Professor (2012-2019), and finally to Professor (2019-present).

Dr. Usalan completed her medical education at Gaziantep University Faculty of Medicine (2000-2004), followed by specialization in Internal Medicine at the same institution (2004-2010). She also holds an Associate Degree from Ege University Faculty of Medicine (2003).

Her primary research focus centers on nephrology, particularly kidney transplantation, hypertension management in renal patients, and biomarkers like urinary angiotensinogen. Dr. Usalan has made significant contributions to understanding the relationship between the renin-angiotensin system and cardiovascular complications in kidney disease. Her work has explored vitamin D therapy in renal patients, management of complications in dialysis, and innovative approaches to proteinuria reduction. She has published extensively in high-impact journals including Clinical Transplantation, Nephrology, and Clinical and Experimental Hypertension.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on translational research connecting laboratory findings with clinical outcomes. Her work frequently investigates urinary biomarkers as indicators of renal and cardiovascular health, with particular attention to angiotensinogen as a novel marker. She has contributed significantly to understanding hypertension in renal transplant recipients and the role of vitamin D therapy in reducing proteinuria.

• 2016: Jüri Bildiri Özel ödülü from 11. Ulusal Aferez Kongresi
• 2012: Genç araştırmacı award from ERA-EDTA
• 2010: Paper Selection Committee membership from ERA-EDTA

Dr. Usalan has supervised 10 medical specialization theses, mentoring the next generation of nephrologists. Her editorial work includes serving on the editorial board of the Journal of Transplantation Research and Technology (2019). She has led research projects including "The Role of Anti-phospholipase A2 Receptor (Anti-PLA2R) Antibody Levels in Diagnosis and Treatment in Patients with Idiopathic Membranous Glomerulonephritis" (2017-2018).

As an active educator, she teaches numerous courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels, covering nephrology topics in both Turkish and English. Her leadership extends to administrative roles as Department Head (2021-present) and previously as Division Head (2014-2021).