Assoc. Prof. Dr. Asya ÇETİNKAYA is a distinguished academic specializing in Food Engineering at Kafkas University's Faculty of Engineering and Architecture. With over two decades of experience in Turkish higher education, she has established herself as a leading researcher in traditional Turkish dairy products, particularly regional cheeses from the Kars province. Her academic journey demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing food science and technology through both teaching and research. Education: BSc in Food Engineering, Atatürk University, Faculty of Agriculture (1984-1988) Master's Degree in Veterinary Food Hygiene and Production, Kafkas University, Institute of Health Sciences (1998-2001) Doctorate in Veterinary Food Hygiene and Technology, Atatürk University, Institute of Health Sciences (2008-2012) Dr. ÇETİNKAYA's research primarily focuses on traditional Turkish food systems, with special emphasis on dairy products including Kars Kaşar cheese, Gravyer cheese, and other regional specialties. Her work spans food microbiology, physicochemical analysis, food safety, and the preservation of traditional food processing methods. She has made significant contributions to understanding the microbial composition, chemical properties, and quality parameters of various traditional Turkish foods. Her publication record reveals a consistent focus on regional Turkish food products, with particular attention to cheese varieties from Eastern Anatolia. The research demonstrates methodological diversity, incorporating microbiological analysis, chemical testing, sensory evaluation, and quality control assessments. Recent work has expanded to include cereal products like Kavılca Bulgur and safety concerns in infant foods. Dr. ÇETİNKAYA has actively participated in research projects related to traditional cheese production, microbial safety of dairy products, and quality assessment of regional foods. Her collaborative work with colleagues like Gülbaz, Özçakmak, and Atasever demonstrates strong interdisciplinary connections within the food science community. Though no formal thesis advising is documented, her leadership roles including department chair and dean's assistant reflect her administrative contributions to academic development. Her work bridges traditional food knowledge with modern scientific analysis, preserving cultural heritage while ensuring food safety and quality standards. This approach has positioned her as a key researcher in documenting and scientifically validating Turkey's rich culinary traditions, particularly those from the Kars region.