Selin Yıldırım, PhD

Dr. Selin Yıldırım is a leading researcher and educator in LGBT-Queer studies, specializing in sexual health, identity formation, and inclusive education. Over the past 12 years, she has conducted groundbreaking studies on LGBTQ+ adolescent wellbeing, community resilience, and intersectional approaches to sexuality and gender. Selin is committed to bridging research, advocacy, and public education to empower marginalized communities and promote evidence-based policies.

Specialization

LGBTQ+ Health & Wellbeing
Queer Sexuality & Identity Development
Intersectional Sexual Education
Policy & Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Communities
Community-Based Participatory Research

Education

2006–2010: BA in Sociology, Boğaziçi University, Turkey
2010–2012: MA in Gender Studies, Central European University, Hungary
2012–2016: PhD in Sexuality and Queer Studies, University of Amsterdam, Netherlands

Professional Experience

2016–2018: Research Associate, Rainbow Health Initiative, Netherlands
2018–2022: Senior Lecturer in Queer Studies, University of Amsterdam
2022–Present: Director of LGBT Research Programs, Global Queer Health Alliance
Consultant for NGOs and international policy organizations on LGBTQ+ education and health

Research Cases and Projects

Project: "Adolescent LGBTQ+ Wellbeing and School Inclusion" (2020–2022) Result: Developed evidence-based guidelines implemented in 35 schools across Europe, improving mental health outcomes and reducing bullying incidents by 28%. Quote: "Inclusive policies and representation significantly enhance the psychosocial resilience of queer youth." – Selin Yıldırım
Project: "Queer Voices: Community-Based Sexual Health Research" (2018–2021) Result: Conducted participatory research with 450 participants, producing policy recommendations adopted by municipal health departments in Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Quote: "Community-driven data is critical to creating interventions that truly meet the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals." – Selin Yıldırım
Project: "Intersectionality in Sexual Education" (2017–2019) Result: Designed inclusive curricula for youth organizations, increasing student engagement and understanding of gender diversity by 42%. Quote: "Education that recognizes multiple identities is not optional; it's essential for equity." – Selin Yıldırım

Selected Publications

Yıldırım, S. (2021). "Queer Youth and Mental Health: Evidence from European Schools." Journal of LGBT Studies, 15(3), 201–225.
Yıldırım, S., & Novak, L. (2019). "Intersectional Approaches to LGBTQ+ Sexual Education." International Review of Education, 65(2), 145–167.
Yıldırım, S. (2018). "Community Participation in Queer Health Research." Health & Society Review, 11(1), 78–95.

Professional Memberships

International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA World)
European Network for Queer & Sexuality Studies (ENQSS)
Society for the Scientific Study of Sexuality (SSSS)

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

Guest on BBC World Service: “Challenges and Triumphs of Queer Youth”
TEDx Talk: “Intersectionality and Sexuality Education” (2020)
Featured on “Queer Science” Podcast, multiple episodes discussing LGBTQ+ health research

Unique Values and Experience

Selin Yıldırım combines rigorous research, practical advocacy, and cultural sensitivity to produce impactful educational programs and policy interventions. Her expertise in participatory methods ensures that marginalized voices shape solutions. Selin’s work demonstrates measurable social impact, bridging academic insights and real-world change.