Hamza Balci

Hamza Balci is a Professor of Physics at Kent State University (Kent, OH), serving as the Interim Graduate Coordinator and previously as Undergraduate Coordinator (2020-2024). He holds a PhD in Physics from the University of Maryland (2004) and a BS from Koç University (1998). His research focuses on experimental biophysics, particularly single-molecule studies of DNA-protein interactions, telomere maintenance, and CRISPR-based gene regulation. His lab also explores DNA-based liquid crystals formed via gapped constructs.

Key research areas include G-quadruplex structures, CRISPR technology, and fluorescence microscopy. His work is supported by NIH and NSF grants, with over 130 peer-reviewed publications. Balci has mentored numerous PhD and MS students, including current advisees Sineth Kodikara and Janan AlFehaid. He has held visiting roles at institutions like TU Delft (Marie-Curie Fellowship) and Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich.

His honors include the 2023 Students' Choice Best Advisor Award and the 2018 Marie-Curie Fellowship. Balci teaches advanced courses in biophysics, optics, and electromagnetism, and serves on university committees for curriculum and admissions. His lab (Balcilab.org) integrates biochemical, biophysical, and microscopy techniques to study DNA repair, transcription regulation, and biomolecular phase transitions.