On Wednesday, June 7, 2023, we had the privilege of hosting Dr. Semih Tareen at Bilkent University’s National Nanotechnology Research Center (UNAM) for an insightful discussion on the topic of viruses and gene therapy.
During the discussion, Dr. Tareen underscored the fact that viruses are the most abundant life form on our planet but have become a source of fear due to the Covid-19 pandemic. He emphasized that, while the majority of viruses pose no harm to humans, others even exhibit beneficial properties. Dr. Tareen delved into the realm of biotechnology, specifically gene and cell therapy, elucidating how viruses serve as indispensable vehicles for gene transfer. His insights shed light on the significant role viruses play in advancing these fields.
Dr. Semih Tareen completed his undergraduate and doctoral studies at the University of Washington and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, specializing in the realm of HIV and retrovirus evolution. With an extensive research background spanning over two decades, he has made significant contributions in the field of virology, specifically in the development of innovative therapies targeting diseases like cancer by leveraging the potential of viruses. Dr. Tareen’s exceptional expertise is evident in his possession of multiple patents in this domain. He currently holds a prominent position as a senior executive at Biotechnology Seattle where he leads the Gene and Cell Therapy division. In addition to his scientific pursuits, Dr. Tareen showcases his versatility and creativity by also continuing to pursue his passions for film production and music.
