Dr Volkan Yilmaz

Overview

I work as a Lecturer in Social Policy at Ulster University. My academic journey led me to a PhD in Politics from the University of Leeds, following undergraduate studies in Political Science & International Relations and Sociology (double major) at Bogazici University. Additionally, I hold a taught postgraduate degree in Modern Turkish History, also from Bogazici University.

Outside of my role at Ulster University, I am actively involved in advancing the field of social policy both as a subject matter and discipline. Specifically, I serve as one of the Editors-in-Chief for the Journal of Social Policy. I am one of the coordinators of the Research Network (RN26) on the Sociology of Social Policy and Social Welfare of the European Sociological Association. I am a member of the WHO Advisory Group on the Governance of the Private Sector for Universal Health Coverage. Lastly, I am an Associate Editor in charge of Social Policy for New Perspectives on Turkey journal.

My past roles include serving as the Director of the Social Policy Forum Research Centre in Istanbul, as well as leading the taught postgraduate programme in Social Policy at Bogazici University until 2021. I have also taught various Public Policy and Research Methods (qualitative and mixed-methods) modules as part of Dublin City University's master's programme in Public Policy and Istanbul Bilgi University’s master's programme in Civil Society Studies.

In terms of research, my interests encompass a wide range of topics, including the politics of social policies and social welfare, public policy, comparative social policy, health policy, humanitarian assistance, and the intersection of human rights with social policy. I have a particular focus on issues concerning disabled and LGBT+ individuals. I have expertise in developing country and hybrid political regime contexts when it comes to welfare politics and social policy.

Furthermore, I am enthusiastic about mentoring PhD researchers whose work aligns with my areas of expertise and interests.