F. Dilek Sanin

Prof. F. Dilek Sanin is a distinguished academic in Environmental Engineering at Middle East Technical University (METU), Ankara, Turkey. She holds the rank of Professor since 2006 and has served as Department Chair since 2012. Her expertise spans wastewater treatment, sludge management, and environmental biotechnology. She earned a Ph.D. from Duke University (1996) and has held visiting roles in the U.S., including at Duke and North Carolina State University.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, Duke University (1996)
• M.Sc., B.Sc. in Environmental Engineering, METU (1985-1989)

Research Interests: Her work focuses on micropollutants and microplastics in wastewater systems, anaerobic digestion optimization, and sustainable waste-to-energy solutions. She investigates sludge management challenges, biodegradation of contaminants, and microbial fuel cells for bioelectricity generation.

Awards: Jeffrey Taub Environmental Engineering Award (1993) and Fulbright Scholarship (1989-1990). She is a member of the International Water Association and Chi Epsilon Honor Society.

Grants & Projects: Leads numerous国家级projects including microplastic fate studies, biogas optimization, and PCB degradation in sludge. Collaborates with Turkish ministries and international bodies like the EU.

Advising: Supervised over 30 graduate students, specializing in sludge treatment, heavy metal biosorption, and microbial processes. Active in editorial roles for Water Research and Water Science and Technology.

Labs/Teams: Leads METU’s Environmental Engineering lab focusing on waste-to-energy systems and environmental biotechnology. Engaged in interdisciplinary projects with KAKAD and Turkish environmental agencies.