معرفی
Melis Kucukoglu Topcu is an Academy Research Fellow at the University of Helsinki, affiliated with the Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences and the Viikki Plant Science Centre (ViPS). She supervises doctoral researchers in the Doctoral Programme in Plant Sciences and leads the Forest Tree Cambial Research (FORCAM) group.
- Education
- PhD in Biology (2024, University of Helsinki)
- MSc in Molecular Biology (2015, Umeå University)
- BSc in Molecular Biology and Genetics (2009, Istanbul Technical University)
Her research focuses on molecular mechanisms regulating vascular cambium development, lateral growth, and vascular continuity in plants. Model systems include hybrid aspen trees, birch, and Arabidopsis roots. Key methodologies involve CRISPR-Cas9, inducible gene expression, and single-cell transcriptomics.
Recent publications from 2023-2025 highlight her work on hormone-regulated cambial activity, transcription factor function, and genetic systems controlling plant thickness and vascular patterns. Collaborative projects span Finland, Sweden, and international institutions.
- Scientific Awards
- Best Journal Article 2019 prize
- New Phytologist Symposia Travel Grant (2018)
- Rank Prize Funds Oral Presentation Award (2015)
- Seth M Kempe Stipend (2012)
- Wallenbergs and Hjelms Fund Grant (2011)
She has supervised 11 researchers at various levels since 2018, including post-doctoral fellows, doctoral candidates, and international exchange students. Teaching roles include Plant Developmental Biology, Translational Plant Biology, and laboratory courses in molecular biology.
Current projects under the Academy of Finland explore genetic control of lateral growth, vascular development, and carbon sink mechanisms in trees. Collaborations include the TreeBio Centre of Excellence and international biotechnology workshops.
