Derya is a PhD Researcher in International Law at the Geneva Graduate Institute and a Teaching Assistant at the Geneva Centre of Humanitarian Studies. She holds a Master’s degree in International Law from the Geneva Graduate Institute, a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and a Bachelor of Laws from Marmara University.

Derya has previously worked as a research associate in international law at the Hertie School and as a research assistant at the United Nations International Law Commission. She has also worked as an associate attorney and legal advisor, providing legal assistance to asylum seekers, refugees, and migrants, among other fields.

She is a member of the Berlin and Istanbul Bar Associations. Derya engages in disciplinary research in international law as well as interdisciplinary research. Having been immersed in the diverse legal and academic cultures of three countries (Switzerland, Germany, and Turkey), her passion lies in interdisciplinary research and teaching.