While he was an undergraduate student at Bilkent University in Turkey, Neşet Özel, Ph.D., had opportunities to work in a multitude of labs around the world in various fields of neuroscience. This broad experience helped him see that every lab, just like every locale, has its own unique culture.

“This fundamentally shapes the kind of science that is conducted by that lab, well beyond the subject matter,” he said.

Raised in Ankara, Turkey, Özel completed his B.S. in molecular biology and genetics at Bilkent University, and his Ph.D. in Neuroscience at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. As an Assistant Investigator at the Stowers Institute and Assistant Professor in the Stowers Graduate School, Özel sees the lab environment shaping scientists just as much as it shapes the science. That perspective has influenced how he teaches and mentors the next generation of scientists.

“I encourage undergrads to seriously think about what kind of scientist they want to become and take that into consideration while choosing a graduate school or a lab,” said Özel.

In his lab, Özel investigates how neurons form distinct functions and connections during development. His research integrates developmental neurobiology with systems biology and gene regulation with the goal of understanding brain wiring. He considers the Institute to be a scientific oasis where students and Investigators have the resources they need for successful research.

“Because of that,” he said, “we attract students who are highly motivated to succeed. If that sounds like you, you should join us—we have here all the support and expertise needed to help students achieve their goals.”