Turkish Embassy hosts European Scientific Diasporas meeting in Washington

The Turkish Embassy in the United States hosted the 10th annual meeting of the European Scientific Diasporas (EURAXESS) in North America on Friday, focusing on strengthening international research collaboration and innovation.

Ambassador emphasizes importance of scientific interaction

Sedat Onal, Türkiye’s ambassador to the U.S., highlighted the crucial role of science in addressing global challenges like climate change and pandemics. He noted that Türkiye values research and innovation, participating in the EU’s Horizon Europe program, emphasizing the importance of mobility and interaction among scientists.

“Science has always been the driving force for human progress,” Onal said. He added that Türkiye is hosting five service centers in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir to assist researchers with information on career opportunities and practical aspects of life in Türkiye.

Focus on researcher support, international collaboration

Meanwhile, Derya Buyuktanir Karacan, regional coordinator for EURAXESS North America, outlined the network’s role in providing free tools and resources to facilitate research collaboration across nine worldwide hubs.

The annual meeting featured discussions on navigating transatlantic research opportunities, attended by representatives from various U.S. institutions and diaspora networks.

“Our mission is to engage in discussions, share experiences, and strengthen connections,” said Karacan.

Participants highlight transatlantic research opportunities

The meeting included prominent figures like Professor Zeliha Kocak Tufan, education counselor at the Turkish Embassy, and Dr. Florent Bernard, science counselor at the EU delegation to the U.S. Discussions focused on enhancing collaboration between European and North American researchers.

EURAXESS supports global researcher mobility

Backed by the EU, EURAXESS promotes researcher mobility and career development, aiming to foster scientific collaboration between Europe and the rest of the world.