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Dr. Aslihan Akkaya’s research focuses on the intersection of ethics, religion, and media within anthropology. Her doctoral work examines how young Turkish-American Muslim women navigate concepts of morality and piety in the context of Facebook, exploring the moral ambivalence and new experiences of piety that arise through social media engagement. Dr. Akkaya extends her research to the moral challenges faced by displaced groups in Turkey, analyzing the ethical dilemmas encountered by asylum seekers during border crossings. She views these experiences as opportunities for moral experimentation, where individuals reimagine their moral identities and worlds in transformative ways.

In addition to her research, Dr. Akkaya is dedicated to teaching a wide range of sociology and anthropology courses at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes critical thinking and interactive learning, particularly in introductory courses that challenge students to rethink their social and cultural perspectives. Dr. Akkaya is also affiliated with Middle East Studies and Muslim World Studies at FIU, where she collaborates on interdisciplinary projects that address the complex social, cultural, and political issues affecting these regions. Through her research and teaching, she contributes to a deeper understanding of the ethical and religious dimensions of contemporary life.