On November 3, 2026, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Minister of Civil Affairs, Dubravka Bošnjak, held a meeting with Turkish‑based Nobel laureate Aziz Sancar in Istanbul. Sancar, who received the 2015 Nobel Prize in Chemistry alongside Tomas Lindahl and Paul Modrich for uncovering the molecular mechanisms of DNA repair, is recognized globally for his work in molecular biology and genetics.

During the discussion, the participants highlighted the critical importance of continuous investment in scientific research for the development of modern medicine. Sancar explained how his studies on the way cells detect and repair DNA damage—particularly damage caused by ultraviolet radiation—have laid the groundwork for understanding the origins of many diseases, improving chemotherapy strategies, and creating new approaches to cancer treatment. The minister stressed that Bosnia and Herzegovina’s civil affairs ministry, which oversees scientific and international cooperation initiatives, is committed to strengthening research capacities, fostering links between domestic and foreign research institutions, and expanding opportunities for Bosnian scientists to join multinational projects.

Both parties agreed that fostering collaborations with leading international laboratories is essential for transferring knowledge and new technologies to the region. They also underlined the need to create pathways for young researchers, emphasizing mentorship, access to modern facilities, and participation in joint research programs. Bošnjak reiterated the ministry’s ongoing activities aimed at supporting the scientific community, such as facilitating partnerships with global research centers and promoting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s involvement in international scientific networks.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to explore concrete projects that would bring cutting‑edge molecular biology research to Bosnia and Herzegovina, potentially enhancing the country’s capacity to address public health challenges and contribute to global scientific advances. While no specific agreements were announced, the dialogue set a foundation for future cooperation between the Bosnian government and leading scholars in the field of DNA repair and genomics.

Sources (learn more):

klix.ba — https://www.klix.ba/vijesti/bih/ministrica-dubravka-bosnjak-se-u-istanbulu-susrela-sa-nobelovcem-azizom-sancarom/261103193