In the realm of health sciences, Atatürk University has made a significant stride in its research and innovation capabilities. In accordance with the regulation that was evaluated by the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) six months ago and published in the Official Gazette by the Presidential Decree on May 16, 2025, it was established a "Drug, Vaccine, and Biotechnology Institute" within the university. The institute's objective is to decrease our nation's external dependence on health by expediting the development of domestic and national drugs and vaccines.

 The R&D-focused vision of Atatürk University will be fortified by the institute, which was established in accordance with Presidential Decree 9818. The institute will have a multifaceted mission, including the development of biotechnological products for human health, the conduct of pre-clinical and post-clinical studies, the production of high-quality scientific projects, and the establishment of collaborative research platforms at the national and international levels.

 Rector Hacımüftüoğlu: "We will convert scientific production into social benefit."

 Atatürk University Rector Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu expressed his vision of transforming the scientific knowledge of the university into social benefit when evaluating the subject. He stated, "Our Institute of Medicine, Vaccine and Biotechnology is a strategic institution that will contribute not only to our academic world but also directly to public health." The pandemic process has demonstrated the critical role of domestic and national production in the health sector. Our scientific power and research infrastructure are directed by Atatürk University to generate solutions to these urgent requirements. Because of our institute, both qualified scientists will receive training and high-value products will be developed through research and development initiatives. We are prepared to contribute to the objective of decreasing Turkey's external dependence on the health sector. To this end, I would like to extend my gratitude to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, YÖK President Prof. Dr. Erol Özvar, and all those who contributed, particularly for the introduction of such a significant unit to our university.

 Collaboration Model for Multiple Disciplines

 The institute that has been recently established will collaborate with a variety of research and application centers at Atatürk University. In this procedure, the "Vaccine Development Application and Research Center" and the "Vaccine and Biological Product Development Application and Research Center in Veterinary Medicine" will serve as the focal points for fundamental research and product development. The development of pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and biotechnological products for human and animal health will be feasible due to the laboratory infrastructure that adheres to GLP (Good Laboratory Practices) and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) standards.

 A Target Structure Based on Education, Production, and Employment

 It is anticipated that the Institute will not only contribute to scientific production but also to the development of qualified human resources. The proposed applications include the establishment of postgraduate education programs in pertinent disciplines, the provision of support for master's and doctoral theses, and the direct involvement of students in the process through research and development projects. In this context, the objective is to establish new career paths for young researchers at both the academic and sectoral levels.

 International Expansion and Social Contribution

 The Institute's objective is to influence the development of health policies across the nation through the implementation of its initiatives, in addition to its role in regional development. Additionally, it is intended to establish international scientific collaborations with initiatives that are supported by the European Union, TÜBİTAK, the Ministry of Health, and the private sector. The institute's agenda will also include social responsibility activities that are designed to increase public awareness.

 The Institute of Medicine, Vaccine, and Biotechnology, which will leverage the dynamic research ecosystem and deep-rooted scientific knowledge of Atatürk University, will make a significant contribution to the national development objectives, innovation, social contribution, and the production of qualified information. The university's research university vision is being fully aligned with the development of local and national health production through this initiative.

 CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTORATE - May 17, 2025