More than three decades of academic dedication, a distinguished career in research and academic leadership, and an unwavering commitment to mentoring future generations have culminated in one of Near East University’s highest academic distinctions. This year, Prof. Dr. Şerife Eyüpoğlu, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, was awarded the Dr. Suat Günsel Honor Award Gold Medal in recognition of her outstanding contributions to research excellence, scientific impact, graduate supervision and service to the University.

In this interview, Prof. Dr. Eyüpoğlu reflects on the milestones that shaped her academic journey, her philosophy of impactful research, the importance of mentoring young scholars, and the values that continue to guide her after more than thirty years in academia.

The Dr. Suat Günsel Honor Award Gold Medal recognizes outstanding achievement in research excellence, scientific impact, graduate supervision, and contribution to the University. What does receiving this award mean to you, both personally and professionally?

Receiving the Dr. Suat Günsel Honor Award Gold Medal is both a great honor and a deeply meaningful achievement in my academic career. I am extremely proud to have been recognized with such a prestigious award, particularly as it reflects the values of excellence, dedication, and service that I have tried to uphold throughout my career.

“This award represents the culmination of more than 30 years of dedication, perseverance, and passion for academia at Near East University.”

Personally, this award represents the culmination of more than 30 years of dedication, perseverance, and passion for academia at Near East University. It is a deeply meaningful milestone that reminds me every challenge, long day, and sacrifice has been worthwhile. This honor also belongs to my family, whose love, patience, and constant encouragement have been my greatest source of strength throughout the years as I balanced research, teaching, leadership responsibilities, and family life. Their support has made this journey possible, and I share this achievement with them.

Professionally, this award reflects my commitment to research excellence, scientific contribution, graduate supervision, and academic leadership. It recognizes not only my individual achievements but also the collaborative efforts of the colleagues and students who have been part of this journey. I have been fortunate to work within a faculty where mutual respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence have fostered both personal and institutional success. This honor motivates me to continue producing high-quality research, mentoring future scholars, strengthening international collaborations, and contributing to Near East University’s mission of advancing knowledge and making a meaningful impact on society.

Looking back on your academic journey, which milestones or experiences have been the most influential in shaping your career?

Looking back on my academic journey, several milestones have been particularly influential in shaping both my career and my professional identity.

One of the most significant milestones was joining Near East University all those years ago. Over the years, I have had the privilege of growing alongside the University, taking on a variety of academic and administrative roles that have allowed me to contribute to its development. Serving as a faculty member, researcher, supervisor, Head of the Business Administration Department, and currently as Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences has given me invaluable experience in academic leadership and strategic decision-making.

Another defining aspect of my career has been my commitment to research. Publishing in leading international journals and presenting my work at international conferences have broadened my academic perspective and enabled me to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in my field. Equally rewarding has been supervising master’s and doctoral students and witnessing their growth into successful academics and professionals.

One of the greatest privileges of my career was having the opportunity to work closely with Prof. Dr. Ümit Hassan, first as my Dean and later as Rector. His wisdom, intellectual leadership, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence were a constant source of inspiration and played a significant role in shaping my academic career and leadership philosophy. I remain deeply grateful for his mentorship and for the opportunity to have learned from and worked alongside him. My only regret is that he is no longer with us to witness this moment.

I have also been fortunate to spend my career working alongside exceptional colleagues in the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences. Their friendship, professionalism, and mutual respect have created an environment in which we have continually learned from and supported one another.

Your research has made valuable contributions to the field of economics and administrative sciences. Which aspects of your work have you found to be the most meaningful, and why?

Throughout my academic career, I have sought to conduct research that is both scientifically rigorous and relevant to the real challenges faced by organizations and society. My work has primarily focused on human resource management, leadership, organizational behaviour, job satisfaction, employee commitment, and organizational citizenship behaviour.

What I have found most meaningful is the opportunity to better understand the human side of organizations. Behind every successful organization are motivated employees, effective leaders, and positive workplace relationships. Research that helps us understand these dynamics can improve both organizational performance and employee well-being.

Equally meaningful has been the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues and supervise postgraduate students throughout the research process. Seeing research generate new ideas, stimulate discussion, and contribute to the development of future scholars has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my academic career.

“Research has fulfilled its purpose when it creates positive and lasting change.”

Academic success is often measured through publications and citations, but meaningful research can also influence society, policy, and future generations of scholars. How do you define research impact?

For me, research impact extends far beyond publications and citations. While these remain important indicators of academic quality and visibility, they are not the ultimate purpose of research. I believe research has its greatest impact when it changes the way people think, influences decision-making, improves professional practice, or helps shape future research. Whether it influences organizational policies, contributes to evidence-based management, or inspires students and young researchers to explore new ideas, research has fulfilled its purpose when it creates positive and lasting change.

I also believe that one of the most enduring forms of research impact is through people. Seeing former students become successful academics, professionals, and researchers who continue to generate knowledge and mentor others is, to me, one of the most meaningful legacies an academic can leave.

Throughout your career, what has motivated you to remain productive and committed to research, even when faced with challenges?

Like every academic, I have encountered challenges, including heavy administrative responsibilities, teaching commitments, and the inevitable setbacks associated with the research process. Rather than discouraging me, these experiences have strengthened my determination and reinforced the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and continuous improvement.

Throughout my career, I have believed that integrity, humility, and treating others with respect are just as important as academic achievement. These values have guided every stage of my professional journey and have shaped the way I approach leadership, research, teaching, and mentoring.

I have also been fortunate to work under the leadership of the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Rectors, and the Vice Rectors, whose confidence in my abilities and continued support have been invaluable throughout my career. They have consistently valued my contributions and entrusted me with opportunities to grow professionally.

Ultimately, what continues to motivate me is the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution, be it through research, mentoring young academics, or helping to strengthen the institution that has been my academic home for more than three decades.

Graduate supervision is one of the distinguishing aspects recognized by this award. What do you find most rewarding about mentoring master’s and doctoral students?

The most rewarding aspect of supervising master’s and doctoral students is seeing them develop into confident, independent researchers. Guiding students as they strengthen their critical thinking, research skills, and academic writing, while encouraging them to generate original ideas, is both professionally and personally fulfilling.

One of the greatest satisfactions is seeing my former students succeed in academia and industry. Some have even become my colleagues, making it especially rewarding to witness their growth from students into respected academics. Knowing that they are now contributing to research and mentoring others is one of the most meaningful outcomes of my academic career.

Near East University has achieved remarkable progress in international research performance and global university rankings. From your perspective, what factors have contributed most to this success?

Near East University’s success in international research performance reflects a strong institutional commitment to research excellence. The University has invested significantly in research infrastructure, supported interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraged international partnerships, and fostered a culture that values innovation and scholarly productivity.

Equally important has been the dedication of its academic staff, whose commitment to high-quality research, publication, and collaboration has enhanced the University’s global reputation. By providing an environment that supports both experienced researchers and early career academics, Near East University has created a sustainable research ecosystem that continues to strengthen its international standing and impact.

Looking ahead, what opportunities and challenges do you foresee for researchers in the fields of economics and administrative sciences?

Researchers in economics and administrative sciences have exceptional opportunities to address complex global challenges through interdisciplinary research, artificial intelligence, and international collaboration. These developments enable us to generate more impactful research that can inform policy, improve organizational practices, and contribute to sustainable development.

At the same time, researchers face challenges such as rapidly evolving technologies, increasing expectations for high-quality and impactful publications, and the need to ensure that research remains ethical, relevant, and accessible. I believe those who embrace innovation while maintaining rigorous scientific standards and strong collaboration will be best positioned to make meaningful contributions to both academia and society.

The award bears the name of Dr. Suat Günsel, whose vision has played a transformative role in the development of Near East University. In your view, what does this recognition represent within the University’s academic culture?

The Dr. Suat Günsel Award represents much more than recognition of research excellence; it embodies the vision of Dr. Suat Günsel, whose unwavering constant commitment to education, research, and innovation has transformed Near East University into an internationally respected institution.

I have been fortunate to work closely with Dr. Suat Günsel under his leadership and to witness first hand his vision, determination, and never ending support for academic excellence. His vision established a culture in which research excellence, innovation, and service are valued equally. So for me, receiving an award that bears his name is therefore an indescribable honor.

“Meaningful research is not built overnight; it requires dedication, determination, and a true passion for discovering new knowledge.”

Finally, what advice would you give to young academics who aspire to build a meaningful and impactful research career?

My advice to young academics is to remain curious, patient, and persistent. Meaningful research is not built overnight; it requires dedication, determination, and a true passion for discovering new knowledge. While an academic career may not always provide the greatest financial rewards, it offers something equally valuable; the opportunity to create knowledge, shape future generations, and make a lasting contribution to society.

I also encourage young researchers to seek good mentors, embrace collaboration, and remain open to new ideas and emerging technologies. Most importantly, uphold the highest standards of research integrity and never stop learning. If you pursue research with passion, integrity, and perseverance, the personal and professional fulfilment that comes from seeing your work make a difference is truly rewarding.

About Prof. Dr. Şerife Zihni Eyüpoğlu

Prof. Dr. Şerife Zihni Eyüpoğlu is the Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences and Advisor to the Rector at Near East University. She joined the University in 1992 and has played a significant role in its academic development through leadership, teaching, research, and graduate supervision for more than three decades.

Her research focuses on human resource management, leadership, organizational behaviour, job satisfaction, employee commitment, and organizational citizenship behaviour. She has published extensively in international peer-reviewed journals, presented her work at numerous international conferences, and supervised a large number of master’s and doctoral students.

Throughout her academic career, Prof. Dr. Eyüpoğlu has held several leadership positions, including Founding Head of the Department of Human Resource Management, Head of the Department of Business Administration, and Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences. In recognition of her outstanding contributions to research, academic leadership, and graduate supervision, she was awarded the Dr. Suat Günsel Honor Award Gold Medal.