Member spotlight: Meric Ozturk

Meric Ozturk is a Ph.D. student in biochemistry at Iowa State University and an ASBMB Today contributor.

What is your research focus?

“I am investigating mechanisms of Type I-E CRISPR–Cas system.”

What is the broader impact of your work?

“This study will provide better understanding of how CRISPR–Cas systems work.”

How has being a member of ASBMB helped you along the way?

“Being an ASBMB member helped me to create new connections and broaden my network. Also, being ASBMB Today writer has given me understanding of what science communication is and how we should do it. I have been involved in science communication since 2013, but I have learned everything about it after being ASBMB contributor! Plus, all of these make me feel like I am contributing to the community.”

What are you watching/reading outside the lab/work?

“I am following European soccer a lot. This is my go-to activity to isolate myself from science. Also, I am trying to follow the works/movies of my favorite directors (Yorgos Lanthimos is the best).”

What music or podcasts have you been enjoying lately?

“I am listening to ‘90s hits these days, and I started to listen to the 'Behind the Bastards' podcast lately.”

What have you learned from your work that applies to the rest of your life?

“Good things come in small packages and it takes time ('things' is 'papers' in this context!).”