Prof. Dr. Aykut Kence is a biologist who stands out for his scientific contributions in evolutionary biology and population genetics in Türkiye, and is known for his academic work as well as his efforts to convey scientific knowledge to the public. He played a significant role in shaping modern biology education in Türkiye and in defending the theory of evolution at an academic level. He spent most of his academic career at the Middle East Technical University, mentored numerous students, and authored dozens of national and international publications.

Education and Academic Career

Aykut Kence was born in Istanbul on August 27, 1946. He received his education at Karaahmet Paşa Primary School (1958), Şehremini Secondary School (1961), and Pertevniyal High School (1964). In 1968, he graduated from Istanbul University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology. He completed his doctorate in 1973 under the supervision of Prof. Dr. R. R. Sokal at the State University of New York at Stony Brook, USA. In the same year, he conducted postdoctoral studies at the University of Houston.

In 1974, he started working as a lecturer at the Middle East Technical University (METU), Faculty of Science, Department of Biology; he became an assistant professor in 1975, an associate professor in 1980, and a full professor in 1989. He served as department head between 1977–1979 and 1988–1994. He retired in 2013.

Scientific Works

Prof. Dr. Aykut Kence's scientific output is pioneering in many aspects of evolutionary biology and population genetics in Türkiye. His research encompasses both fundamental scientific problems and applied research aimed at the conservation of local ecosystems. His main areas of expertise include genetic variation, population structure, sexual behaviors, evolutionary processes, and the conservation of biological diversity. Throughout his academic life, he worked with many organism groups, including fruit flies (Drosophila), houseflies (Musca domestica), honeybees (Apis mellifera), termites, chickpeas (Cicer species), tsetse flies, and various mammals.

Population Genetics and Entomology

Kence pioneered the development of population genetics research in Türkiye. He conducted studies on sex determination mechanisms, sexual isolation, and hereditary behaviors in houseflies. These studies are important for revealing the effects of genetic diversity on behavioral isolation.

Apiculture and Conservation of Local Breeds

From the 1990s onwards, he investigated the genetic, morphometric, and behavioral characteristics of honeybee populations in Türkiye. He identified the presence of local bee strains in different regions of Anatolia and advocated for the conservation of this diversity. His research serves as a fundamental reference for the conservation of bee genetic resources and the development of beekeeping policies in Türkiye.

Evolutionary Biology and Education

He worked to ensure that the theory of evolution was included correctly and scientifically in biology curricula. He engaged in public awareness activities against increasing anti-evolution rhetoric in the 1980s and 90s. He initiated the opening of the "Introduction to Evolution" course at METU to bring evolutionary biology to prospective teachers. He also served as a translation editor for Douglas Futuyma's book Evolution into Turkish.

Radiation and Public Health

After the 1986 Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster, he investigated the effects of radiation levels in Türkiye on public health. He worked with a scientific team that examined radiation levels in Black Sea teas, raising both academic and societal awareness on the issue.

Publications

Kence authored over 180 academic publications, including nine books. These publications include national conference proceedings, articles in international journals, translated works, and educational books. He made presentations at numerous national and international conferences and served in academic communities.

Memberships and Awards

• President of the Turkish Biologists Association (1988–1992)
• Editor of the Turkish Journal of Zoology (1991–2006)
• Member of the Turkish Entomology Association
• Secretary of TÜBİTAK Basic Sciences Research Group (1988–1989)

Awards Received

• Turkish Medical Association, Ankara Chamber of Physicians Public Health Service Award (1988)
• International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology Award (1988)
• Türkiye Ecopathology Award (1996)
• METU Outstanding Achievement Awards (2000, 2003, 2005, 2006)
• TÜBA Textbook Translation Award (2008)

Prof. Dr. Aykut Kence's name is kept alive through the "Aykut Kence Evolution Conferences," held annually since 2014. Additionally, the "Aykut Kence Student Award" given by the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Society continues his scientific legacy.

Personal Life and Death

He carried out many joint academic studies with his wife, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Meral Kence. Kence, a father of two, passed away on February 1, 2014, at the age of 67.