Abyss is the result of many years of academic research, practical experience, data collection and analysis of the system of access and benefit-sharing (ABS) of genetic resources.

International law provides for mechanisms for the conservation and restoration of biodiversity resulting from utilising nature. The system of access and benefit-sharing (ABS) aims to fairly distribute benefits deriving from utilising nature between the providers of genetic resources (such as biodiversity-rich countries) and users of genetic resources (such as universities, biotechnology or pharmaceutical companies, natural history museums and botanical gardens).

ABS aims to ensure generation of benefits that would then be channelled into:

Ayşegül’s relationship with ABS has always been twofold. Since ABS requires a holistic and comprehensive understanding both at the scientific/academic and practical level, she chose to pursue careers in both these realms. Next to her role as the founder and CEO of Abyss, she also is a postdoctoral researcher at Lund University on Access and Benefit-sharing of genetic resources (ABS).

Ayşegül holds a PhD degree in Law, focusing specifically on the comparative analysis of international, regional, and national ABS legislation, mapping the international ABS goals, their national implementation through the most commonly used regulatory mechanisms. She has worn the hat of a legal expert in international and European environmental law, specialising on access and benefit-sharing both in private sector as well as at the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO).

Her professional purpose is contributing to creating a balanced ABS system that satisfies the needs of both the providers and users of genetic resources while establishing trust-based, sustainable collaborations.

Her personal purpose is to contribute to an interconnected planet living in interspecies harmony and trust.