Stem cells and ALS: Berkiye Sonustun’s path at Weill Cornell Institute
Berkiye Sonustun is a Turkish-Cypriot 28-year-old PhD in Neuroscience with a crystal-clear vision for her future. Her ultimate goal is to advance our understanding of the brain - particularly focusing on ALS - and to develop treatments for complex neurodegenerative diseases. Currently enrolled at the Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences - where she’s specializing in Stem Cell Biology – Berkiye was selected as one of the 14 recipients of the 2022 Rita Levi Montalcini Scholarship Program, a funding opportunity established by the Dompé Foundation in 2021 to support the higher education of master’s, PhD, or post-doc students in Neuroscience and neurobiology in the US. Dive into this interview to learn more about Berkiye’s academic interests, entrepreneurial experiences, personal achievements, and much more.
Describe yourself in one word
Resilient. One time during my master’s degree, a technical glitch wiped out months of data. Instead of giving up, I regrouped, devised a new plan, and ended up with even better results than before. It taught me the value of resilience in research.
Why did you pick Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences?
I picked Weill Cornell for my graduate studies for its renowned faculty, cutting-edge research opportunities, and commitment to excellence in medical education. The institution's collaborative environment fosters interdisciplinary learning, allowing me to engage with diverse perspectives and expand my intellectual horizons. Additionally, its strategic location in New York City provides access to vast resources, including top hospitals and research centers, which will enrich both my academic and professional path.
Why did you choose to focus on stem cell biology?
I chose to pursue a Neuroscience PhD focused on stem cell biology because it offers a fascinating avenue to explore the mechanisms underlying neurological disorders – a research area I’m particularly passionate about - and develop innovative therapies. Additionally, the interdisciplinary nature of this program allows me to integrate various scientific disciplines, fostering a holistic understanding of neural development and repair.
What do you hope to accomplish from a professional perspective?
My goal is to advance our understanding of the brain and translate research findings into clinical applications that can treat complex neurodegenerative diseases.
I would particularly like to contribute meaningfully to ALS drug development, an area with severely unmet clinical need.
Tell me about a personal achievement that makes you proud.
I am the first and only Turkish Cypriot person to have worked at the Mayo Clinic, a top-notch hospital that hosts world-renowned researchers. I had the opportunity to work with some amazing mentors, who drove my passion in science further and supported my research journey. People from many different countries work in the research department, but no Turkish Cypriots, until I joined as a Research Assistant.
What does winning the Dompé Foundation scholarship named after Rita Levi Montalcini mean to you?
The Rita Levi Montalcini Scholarship holds immense significance to me as it represents an opportunity to honor the legacy of an exceptional woman. Her determination and pioneering spirit continue to inspire today’s researchers. I’m committed to upholding the values of perseverance and excellence that defined the journey of this esteemed Nobel Laureate.
How did you react when you found out you had received this opportunity?
Upon learning that I had won this scholarship, I was filled with a renewed sense of motivation and purpose. The news not only alleviated my financial concerns but also empowered me to pursue my research goals with even greater vigor. Celebrating this achievement with my mentors, friends, and family was a moment of profound joy and validation.
Tell us about an entrepreneurial experience that was extremely significant for you
Besides having received a Dompé Foundation Scholarship, I was also honored to be among the recipients of a Cornell’s Life Sciences Technology Innovation Fellowship. With two other students, I’m working on building a life sciences startup, leveraging our diverse backgrounds in biology, engineering, and business. This experience is teaching me the value of interdisciplinary collaboration and effective team communication, as well as key aspects of launching a startup, including market research, product development, and fundraising strategies.
What are you passionate about, science apart?
Working out and staying active: I am really big on wellness and healthy aging.
Name one thing on your bucket list?
I really want to visit Japan. I’m fascinated by its rich cultural heritage, bustling cities…and I’m a big fan of their cuisine.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“Luck comes from hard work”. This is something my dad always used to repeat to my sister and me, so it stuck with me throughout my life and career.