60-Second Interview with Dr. Selçuk Topal: Science, Space & Türkiye

Your personal slogan is #gelecekuzayda — ‘the future is in space.’ What inspired that belief?

Though humanity was born on Earth, we are not bound to it forever. The stars call to us. Our relentless curiosity, the promise of untapped opportunity, and the growing toll of our presence on this planet will one day compel us to venture beyond. Space technologies have already transformed our civilization, from medicine to communication, illuminating the path ahead. The cosmos is our next great frontier. We are destined to sail among the stars. This is not just a vision—it is our future. That is why I believe: the future lies in space.

Your PhD work at Oxford focused on molecular gas and its role in galaxy evolution — how did that spark your curiosity?

What began as a simple childhood curiosity blossomed into a deep passion when I began studying astronomy at university. I fell in love with the cosmos—the questions, the wonder, the science behind it all. After earning both my undergraduate and master’s degrees, I was awarded a scholarship to study at Oxford. There, I focused on molecular gas in external galaxies—a field no one in my home country was exploring at the time. In many ways, I found myself at the intersection of astronomy and chemistry. Studying the chemistry of the universe means studying its origin and the origin of life — including us.

Through your nation-wide project ‘Gelecek Uzayda’ and YouTube channel, you've reached hundreds of thousands of people — is there a particular moment from that journey that still strikes you strongly?

Having reached hundreds of thousands of curious young minds, I noticed an interesting trend: it is middle school students who ask the most questions and show the greatest interest in space and science. In contrast, high school students—likely burdened by future-related pressures from families and society—tend to be quieter and less engaged. To parents, I say this: the more freedom you give your children to think independently, the less anxiety they’ll carry, and the more their true potential will shine. Let them make mistakes—they must. Don’t lead or follow them. Walk beside them.

As a Turkish astrophysicist working in both Van and Oxford, how do you blend those two scientific cultures?

I completed my DPhil in astrophysics at Oxford around ten years ago and returned as an academic visitor. I have always had a connection with Oxford and Christ Church College. Working between Van and Oxford allows me to bridge two distinct worlds—Oxford, a highly international university in a globally connected city, and Van, shaped by a deeply local, Anatolian culture and advancing with great determination toward becoming a leading institution. While their cultural environments differ, both universities are united by a shared commitment to scientific methodology. This dual perspective enables me to foster dialogue between scientific communities and help create opportunities across both contexts.

You have written a popular science book and led hundreds of science communication activities over the past 13 years. Which misconception about space do you love busting the most?

As an astrophysicist and science communicator, I particularly enjoy discussing the differences between science, such as astronomy, and pseudoscience, such as astrology. I love debunking anything related to astrology. For example, 95% of people know their zodiac sign incorrectly. In fact, their zodiac sign is one sign behind. Of course, a star trillions of kilometres away does not affect you and your relationships. I am referring to a technical error. I love astrologers because they bring joy to my life. I'm sure they love me to death, too.

If you were sending one item from Türkiye into deep space to represent our culture, what would it be — and what story would it tell?”

For a country like Türkiye, with its rich history and vibrant culture, this is a very challenging question. I think it would be a quote. It would be a quote that I believe to be true and powerful. It is a quote from Mustafa Kemal Atatürk: 'All we need is to work hard.'

In one sentence: what does being an Oxford Türkiye Alumni Society member mean to you?

The Oxford Türkiye Alumni Society provides a great opportunity to build bridges between Oxford and Türkiye, supporting future Turkish Oxford alumni and strengthening scientific curiosity and communication between the two countries. Professor (Assoc.) Selçuk Topal

Astrophysicist, science communicator, and author. He completed his PhD in Astrophysics at the University of Oxford, focusing on galaxy evolution and molecular gas in space. A passionate advocate for public science, he founded Future in Space, Türkiye’s largest science outreach initiative, reaching over 200,000 young people across 35 cities. He is the author of Kaostan Kozmosa, has appeared on more than 150 TV programmes, and serves as a science advisor and scriptwriter for upcoming science shows. Topal is a member of leading astronomical societies and sits on the board of the Turkish National Observatory. Born in Giresun, he is married with two children, Uzay and Venus. Detailed information about all of Topal's academic work and science communication activities can be found at www.astronomselcuk.com.