Aya Naser
Aya Naser
Graduate Student
Email: anaser@clemson.edu
Biosketch
Aya Naser graduated with a B.S. in Bioengineering from Abdullah Gül University in Turkey, where she graduated ranked first in her department. During her undergraduate studies, she gained research experience and published a first-author research article, developing a strong foundation in scientific research, experimental design, and scientific communication. Aya is currently a Ph.D. student in Bioengineering in the PENG Lab under Dr. Congyue Annie Peng, where she conducts research focused on regenerative medicine, biomaterials, and stem cell-based approaches. Her current research investigates the differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells into motor neuron-like cells as a potential approach for spinal muscular atrophy. In addition to her research, Aya mentors’ undergraduate researchers through Creative Inquiry projects, supporting students as they develop research skills, independence, and critical-thinking abilities.
Research
My research interests focus on regenerative medicine, stem cell-based therapies, biomaterials, and neural tissue engineering. My current research investigates the differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) into motor neuron-like cells as a potential cell-based approach for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). I am particularly interested in understanding how biomaterial-based microenvironments can influence stem cell behavior, differentiation, and function, with the goal of developing strategies that can support neural regeneration.
Publications
Naser, A., Safak, S. B., Utkutag, E., Sin, S. İ., Taşkın, S. S., Koca, İ., & Dogan, R. S. (2024). Classification of Xray
images and model evaluation. Imaging and Radiation Research, 7(1), 6257.