Prof. Dr. K. Hüsnü Can Başer, Head of the Department of Pharmacognosy at Near East University’s Faculty of Pharmacy, has been awarded the prestigious “Theophrastus Prize” from the Mediterranean Region Phytotaxonomic Research Organization for his international contributions to the scientific classification of plants. Prof. Dr. Başer received his award at a ceremony held in Palermo, Italy.

Prof. Dr. K. Hüsnü Can Başer, Head of the Department of Pharmacognosy at Near East University’s Faculty of Pharmacy, has been awarded the “Theophrastus Prize” by the Mediterranean Region Phytotaxonomic Research Organization (OPTIMA), one of the world’s leading botanical organizations.

Prof. Dr. Başer was awarded this prestigious award for his invaluable contributions to the systematic taxonomic research of the Mediterranean flora. Named after the ancient Greek philosopher Theophrastus, known as the “Father of Botany,” the “Theophrastus Award” emphasizes the importance placed on the conservation and scientific study of plant diversity in the Mediterranean region.

Prof. Dr. Başer, who has authored numerous scientific articles and books and served as a thesis advisor throughout his academic career, is recognized as a pioneer in the field for his efforts in the conservation and research of the Mediterranean flora and continues to inspire young scientists. Prof. Dr. Başer’s research sheds light on the region’s rich biodiversity and establishes a solid scientific foundation for sustainable nature conservation strategies.

These impressive scientific studies have been crowned with numerous concrete achievements over time. The naming of a new endemic anise species, “Pimpinella husnucan-baseri,” recently discovered in Turkey and introduced to the scientific world, is a concrete reflection of Prof. Dr. Başer’s significant contributions to this field. With this latest discovery, Prof. Dr. Başer’s name has been given to a newly discovered plant in Turkey for the fifth time. The Theophrastus Award, given by OPTIMA, is seen as a culmination of Prof. Dr. Başer’s internationally recognized studies in the scientific classification of plants.

Prof. Dr. K. Hüsnü Can Başer: “Young researchers, never stop asking and producing!”

Prof. Dr. K. Hüsnü Can Başer stated that curiosity, patience, and continuous work lie at the heart of scientific productivity. He said, “Over the years, we have better grasped how seemingly demanding areas like plant classification are, in fact, vital for the protection of nature and the understanding of biodiversity. The academic environment and research opportunities provided by Near East University have been a great support for me throughout this long process.”

Prof. Dr. Prof. Dr. Başer stated, “Especially in an era where natural resources are rapidly depleting, the productivity of scientists contributes not only to academia but also to society and the planet,” reiterating the importance of supporting scientific research. He also offered advice to young researchers, saying, “Never stop asking questions and producing. The path to meaningful and lasting contributions lies in consistent effort.”