Dr. Avci’s work exemplifies the power of translating scientific discoveries into real-world applications. Some of her key achievements include:
🔹 Five Patents & Entrepreneurship – One of her patents led to the founding of RapidPhotonics, a pioneering start-up specializing in ultra-high-speed modulators for telecommunications and data communications. These components play a crucial role in meeting the rising demands of high-bandwidth applications, such as 5G, cloud computing, and real-time data processing.
🔹 Competitive Grants & Impact – Over the past five years, Dr. Avci has secured nearly €1M in valorisation-related funding, including the BiotechBooster grant, which supports the commercialization of her patented optical biosensing technology. This technology focuses on early lung cancer detection, offering a promising new tool to complement existing diagnostic methods.
🔹 Recognition in Innovation & Entrepreneurship – Dr. Avci has been twice selected as a finalist in the AMSIA event (Innovation Exchange Amsterdam) and participated in ACTPHAST4R’s LAUNCHPAD program, a highly competitive European initiative that equips scientists with entrepreneurial skills to bring their innovations to market.
Dr. Avci’s achievements reflect the spirit of innovation that defines the VU Faculty of Science. Her ability to bridge scientific excellence with real-world impact makes her a truly deserving recipient of this award.