Bio


Hulya Torun is a graduate researcher at Stanford Medicine's Radiology department, specializing in Biomedical Sciences and Engineering. Her primary focus lies in pioneering Raman spectroscopy-based diagnostic technologies for the precise detection of brain tumors. With an impressive research portfolio, Hulya has made significant contributions to esteemed journals, including 'Advanced Devices & Instrumentation' and 'Small'. Notably, she has been recognized as a finalist for the Stanford Biodesign MEDTech Spectrum Grant and the recipient of the SPIE Student Travel Grant and the Society of NeuroOncology International Scholar Award, underscoring her commitment to impactful research.

Beyond her academic pursuits, Hulya actively engages in mentorship programs, notably serving as a mentor in the Stanford Canary CREST Program, supported by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), where she guides undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, she holds the esteemed position of Co-Chair of the Stanford University Photonics Retreat at the Stanford Optical Society, showcasing her leadership capabilities within the academic community. Her multidimensional engagement, strong research acumen, and dedication to advancing healthcare technology underscore her potential as a future leader in the realm of neuroengineering. Outside of her research endeavors, Hulya is an avid participant in professional extracurricular activities such as dancing and volleyball, reflecting her well-rounded approach to personal and professional development.

Professional Education:
- Stanford Medicine - Radiology, Visiting Graduate Student, Sep, 2022 - Present (Ph.D. Thesis Research)
- Koc University, PhD in Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Feb, 2021 - Present
- Koc University, MSc in Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, Sep 2018 - Feb 2021
- Technical University of Berlin, Erasmus, Molecular Biotechnology, Mar 2016 - Aug 2016
- Yildiz Technical University, BSc in Bioengineering, Feb 2013 - June 2017

Key Awards & Grants:
- International Outreach Student Scholarship Award - Society for NeuroOncology (SNO), Nov 2023
- Stanford Biodesign MEDTech Spectrum Grant, Finalist, Stanford University, May 2023
- KUIMPACT Patent Award, 3rd Place, Koc University, May 2022
- SPIE Student Travel Grant, Photonics West BIOS 2022, Jan 2022
- Best Poster Presentation Award, Research Days, Koc University School of Medicine, Apr 2019
- Erasmus+ Exchange Study Scholarship, European Commission of Education, Audiovisual, and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA), Mar - Aug 2016

Executive Appointments:
- Chair of Stanford Optical Society - Stanford University Photonics Retreat (SUPR) 2024 - May 2023, Present
- Koc University Quality Board, Koc University, April 2021 -Sep 2022
- Head of Graduate Student Council, Koc University, May 2021 - Sep 2022
- Member of Board, Koc University Student Council, April 2021 - Sep 2022
- Student Representative for Graduate School of Sciences and Engineering, April 2021 - Sep 2022
- Student Representative for Dept. of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, April 2021- Sep 2022