Üsküdar University Vocational School of Health Services (SHMYO) Research and Application Laboratory is an advanced research center designed to conduct drug R&D processes, functional product development, and biotechnological analyses in accordance with international standards through a multidisciplinary approach.
What is the SHMYO Research and Application Laboratory? / What is its Purpose?
Primary Purpose: The primary purpose of the SHMYO Research and Application Laboratory is to conduct drug discovery, small-molecule synthesis, over-the-counter (OTC) product development, computer-aided molecular modeling (in silico/molecular docking), and in vitro biological activity testing in accordance with scientific standards. The laboratory aims to serve as a strategic solution partner in the innovative production processes of the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and food industries by establishing integrated R&D networks with scientists at both local and global levels.
Key Features: Established in 2022 with the support of the Rectorate of Üsküdar University, the laboratory directly supports Türkiye's strategic vision of "domestic and national production." Accordingly, high-value-added project models are developed and managed in line with the call programs of national funding institutions such as TÜBİTAK, TÜSEB, and TAGEM.
Academic Contribution: The laboratory hosts advanced research conducted by faculty members working in programs such as Medical and Aromatic Plants, Food Technology, Medical Laboratory Techniques, Environmental Health, and Laboratory Technology. It also provides a comprehensive academic ecosystem where associate degree, undergraduate, master's, and doctoral students can conduct their graduation projects and postgraduate theses.
Equipment and Technical Infrastructure Available in the Laboratory
The SHMYO Research and Application Laboratory has the infrastructure and equipment required for molecular research processes ranging from computer-aided modeling to synthesis and biological activity testing:
- In Silico and Computer-Aided Modeling Stations: High-performance computing units equipped with molecular docking software used to simulate the interactions of chemical compounds with target receptors.
- Chemical Synthesis and Industry-Oriented Product Development Equipment: Laboratory equipment required for the synthesis of small-molecule compounds, preparation of OTC product formulations, and practical development of innovative cosmetic technologies.
- In Vitro Biological Activity Laboratory Infrastructure: Analytical instruments suitable for testing the biological mechanisms of action, enzyme inhibition, and cellular-level activities of synthesized or isolated molecules.
- Micro- and Nanoparticle Development Systems: Technical infrastructure used in the design and characterization of targeted drug delivery systems and micro/nanoparticulate formulations.
- Green Transformation and Wastewater Analysis Equipment: Filtration and measurement systems used for environmental analyses and wastewater management studies in line with industrial transformation initiatives.
Research and Application Areas
The current research and application areas conducted by faculty members and undergraduate/graduate students in the laboratory are grouped under the following headings:
- Drug Discovery and Development: Processes for identifying and optimizing new active pharmaceutical ingredients, beginning with computer-aided design.
- Natural Products Chemistry and Total Synthesis: Isolation and characterization of secondary metabolites from medicinal and aromatic plants and their total synthesis using organic chemistry methods.
- Cosmetic and OTC Product Formulations: Monitoring innovative technologies in the cosmetics industry and developing next-generation skin and hair care products and dietary supplements.
- Green Transformation in Industry and Environmental Management: Production models based on green chemistry principles, waste management projects, and analytical monitoring of industrial wastewater.
- Biotechnological Research: Development of biotechnology-based products and bioprocesses using microbiological and molecular biological methods.
Contributions to Students and the Industry
- Solution Partnership and Industrial Integration: The laboratory serves as an academic consultant and R&D partner in the product development processes of companies operating in the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries.
- Early Career and Thesis Preparation Opportunities: Students from associate degree through doctoral level gain hands-on experience with globally recognized Drug Discovery techniques, enabling them to establish a strong foundation for their professional or academic careers.
- Fundable Project Experience: Students and researchers gain a project management perspective by directly participating in project writing, budgeting, and implementation processes in accordance with the standards of TÜBİTAK, TÜSEB, and TAGEM.
