Aziz Sancar

Nobel Prize-winning Turkish scientist who revolutionized DNA repair research

Aziz Sancar (b. 1946) made an indelible mark on molecular biology through his groundbreaking work on DNA repair mechanisms. Born in Savur, Turkey, Sancar grew up in modest circumstances but developed a passion for science that led him to discover cryptochrome proteins and map nucleotide excision repair.

His research earned the 2015 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, making him the first Turkish-born scientist to receive this honor. Sancar's discoveries fundamentally changed how we understand cellular responses to UV radiation damage, directly influencing cancer treatment strategies and genetic engineering.

Beyond lab achievements, Sancar established the Aziz & Gwen Sancar Foundation to promote Turkish-American cultural relations. His philanthropic efforts in North Carolina demonstrate how scientists can bridge academic excellence with social impact.