Omur Kayikci Cicek

Omur Kayikci Cicek is a Researcher in the Department of Biology at Duke University, affiliated with Trinity College of Arts & Sciences. Their research focuses on understanding cellular responses to environmental stress in fungal systems, particularly investigating regulatory mechanisms in Saccharomyces species. Education includes a PhD from Duke University (2013).

Research Interests: Omur’s work centers on fungal molecular biology, focusing on cAMP-PKA signaling pathways, biofilm formation, and genetic networks governing developmental processes. They explore how yeast cells coordinate physiological responses to nutrient availability and environmental challenges, with implications for both basic science and clinical applications.

Grants & Honors: Recipient of the National Institute of General Medical Sciences grant (2020–2025) for studying ubiquitin’s role in translation control. Awards include the Ray J. Tysor Graduate Fellowship (2013) and multiple travel/conference fellowships from Duke Graduate School and departments.

Professional Activities: Presented at international conferences including the International Conference on Yeasts (2012) and Yeast Genetics Meetings (2011–2010), focusing on topics like cAMP signaling evolution and nutrient-induced developmental responses.