Staff
Neval Erturk, PHD
Vice President of Academics
Bio
Dr. Neval Erturk is the Vice President of Academics at GSSM. She received her BS in Biology and MS in Biology (Genetics) from Hacettepe University. Her Ph.D. in Biology (Molecular and Cellular Biology) from Virginia Tech. Recipient of multiple awards for teaching, research, and service, including South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU) Teaching in Excellence Award, National Role Model for Minority Students, Dr. Erturk held several leadership roles. She served as the Director of Science, Technology, and Research Scholars and the Associate Provost for Research and Engagement at Converse University. She was the recipient of several federal grants that supports research in biomedical sciences and promotion of excellence in STEM education in the state of South Carolina. Her professional publications, research, and service are in the field of drug and chemical toxicology.
Educational Background
- PhD, Biology—Molecular and Cellular Biology, Virginia Tech
- MS, Biology—Genetics, Hacettepe University
- BS, Biology, Hacettepe University
Awards and Distinctions
- Dr. Jeffrey H. Barker Faculty Excellence Award, Converse University
- O’Herron Faculty Excellence Award, Converse University
- Ibrahim Janajreh Young Innovator Award, InnoVision South Carolina
- Minority Access, Inc. National Role Model for Faculty Research, Minority Access Incorporated, Washington D.C.
- Curriculum Innovation Award, Converse College
- Scholarly and Creative Achievement Award, Converse College
- Student Service: Above and Beyond Award, Converse College
- Plaque of Recognition for Supporting the Research and Scholarly Efforts in the Upstate of South Carolina, The South Carolina Upstate Research Symposium
- Certificate of Recognition for Excellence in the Support and Development of Talent and Research in the State of South Carolina, South Carolina Academy of Science
- Governor’s Award for Excellence in Science Outreach Nominee
- Excellence in Teaching Award, South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities
- Earthwatch Educator Fellowship, Raymond Cash Foundation
- Higher Education Council Fellowship of Turkey
Fun Facts
- Dr. Erturk was a participant in a global medical trial for smart knee implants. Her knee records her metrics and sends real-time data to her and her health care professionals about her progress.