Sevtap Yildiz Ozbek is a Professor in the Department of Physics Engineering at Istanbul Technical University. Her research focuses on biomedical engineering, medical imaging, and advanced materials science. She leads projects in cerebrospinal fluid dynamics, liquid crystal nanocomposites, and non-destructive testing techniques. Key research areas include yogic breathing effects on neurological systems, neural network applications in healthcare, and MRI-based fluid dynamics analysis. Her work integrates interdisciplinary methods from acoustics, signal processing, and geophysics. Received Koç Foundation Scholarship (2003) and Munir Birsel Foundation Scholarship (2000) Active in EU-funded projects on cerebrospinal fluid circulation and BAP-funded liquid crystal material optimization Published over 10 articles in journals like Scientific Reports and Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Her research bridges engineering, medicine, and environmental science, with applications in clinical diagnostics and material development.
Elbrus Jafarov serves as a Professor in the Department of Aeronautical Engineering at Istanbul Technical University's College of Aeronautics. His research focuses on advanced control systems with applications in aerospace engineering, particularly in sliding mode control methodologies. Research interests include: Sliding Mode Control and Controller Design Stability Analysis of Delayed Systems Spacecraft Attitude Control under Magnetic Actuation Turbojet Engine Dynamics and Windmilling Phenomena Robust Control for Time-Varying Systems His recent publications demonstrate significant contributions to control theory, with emphasis on practical aerospace applications. Key trends include development of sliding mode controllers for input-delayed systems, stability analysis of turbojet engines during critical phases, and magnetic-based attitude control for small satellites. Scientific recognition: h-index of 11 with 635 citations (Scopus) 64 research outputs spanning 1978-2022 Active research includes the project 'Salt Manyetik Eyleme ile Küçük Uydu Yönelme Kontrolü' (Small Satellite Attitude Control via Magnetic Actuation) funded from 2013-2017, demonstrating ongoing contributions to spacecraft control systems. His work bridges theoretical control methodologies with practical aerospace implementations across multiple engineering domains.
Ahmet Öztopal is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Meteorological Engineering at Istanbul Technical University in Istanbul, Turkey. His research focuses on climate modeling, renewable energy applications, and meteorological data analysis with specific emphasis on Turkey's unique geographical context. Dr. Öztopal's research interests span multiple interconnected domains: Climate Change impacts and scenario analysis (73% focus) Solar Irradiation and renewable energy applications (60% focus) Artificial Neural Networks for meteorological predictions (59% focus) Wind Speed analysis and forecasting (42% focus) Genetic Algorithms for optimizing meteorological models Sunshine Duration studies (44% focus) His publication record reveals a strong emphasis on practical applications of climate science in Turkey, particularly in precipitation modeling and climate change scenario evaluation. His work bridges theoretical climate models with practical applications in renewable energy planning, water resource management, and infrastructure resilience. Dr. Öztopal has led several significant research projects: "Development of Satellite-Based Precipitation Algorithm for Turkey" (2021-2024) "Research to identify regions along the Ankara-Sivas high-speed train route that pose risks in terms of snow and wind" (2017-2018) "Hydrology-SAF CDOP 3 Phase" (2017-2022) "Hydrology-SAF CDOP 2 Phase" (2012-2017)
Mehmet Arkalı is a Researcher at the Department of Geomatics Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (ITU). He holds a PhD in Geomatics Engineering from ITU, completed in 2024, alongside a Master's degree from ITU (2022) and a Bachelor's from Yıldız Technical University (2021). His research focuses on Climate Change, Remote Sensing, Photogrammetry, Geodesy, and Measurement Techniques. He specializes in applying UAV-based technologies for environmental monitoring, including glacier studies in Antarctica and flood simulation systems. Notable projects include real-time flood simulation using game engines and GIS, AI-based olive tree health assessment, and Antarctic glacier monitoring via UAV-GPR. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to climate action and innovation. Collaborations include international Antarctic expeditions, with publications in journals like Drones and Turkish Journal of Earth Sciences . No academic awards are listed, though his active projects and publications reflect significant contributions to geomatics and environmental science. He currently oversees research teams in Antarctic fieldwork and remote sensing applications.
Samet Aksoy is a Researcher at the Department of Geomatics Engineering, Istanbul Technical University. He holds a PhD in Geomatics Engineering (completed in 2023) and has been a Research Assistant since 2020. His research focuses on remote sensing, GIS, and environmental monitoring using machine learning and Earth observation technologies. He actively contributes to projects involving satellite imagery analysis, soil salinity mapping, urban heat island modeling, and agricultural applications such as olive tree detection and hazelnut cultivation planning. Education: PhD in Geomatics Engineering (2023), MSc in Geomatics Engineering (2019), BSc in Geomatics Engineering (2014) from Istanbul Technical University. Research interests include: Development of geospatial decision support systems Machine learning applications in remote sensing Integration of Sentinel and Landsat data for environmental monitoring Google Earth Engine platform utilization Climate change impact analysis through satellite data Recent publications emphasize: Tree detection algorithms using YOLO-based models Soil salinity mapping with explainable AI Urban heat island modeling using LiDAR and Landsat data Environmental monitoring frameworks for crop residue emissions Awards: 2023 IEEE GRSS Turkey Chapter Best M.Sc. Thesis Award, 2024 COSPAR Outstanding Paper Award, and 2023 Istanbul Technical University Publication Award. Professional contributions include advising on geospatial projects and collaborating with institutions like the UYG-AR Center at ITU. Active participant in international conferences on geoinformatics, remote sensing, and agro-geoinformatics.
Prof. Esin Ergen Pehlevan is a Professor in the Civil Engineering Department at Istanbul Technical University (ITU), specializing in Construction Management and Project Management. She holds a PhD from Carnegie Mellon University. Her research focuses on Building Information Modeling (BIM), IoT integration in emergency response systems, facility management, and sustainable construction practices. She has led projects like 'User-Centric BIM Integration for Office Building Performance Evaluation' and 'Fire Emergency Response System Design using BIM and IoT.' Education: PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University (2001-2005) Master’s in Building Management, ITU (1997-2001) Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering, ITU (1993-1997) Research Interests: BIM adoption and implementation in construction projects IoT and sensor-based technologies for emergency management Facility management systems integration Occupant feedback systems for building performance evaluation Sustainability in construction and green building practices Recent Projects: Developing BIM-based emergency response systems for fire safety Automated progress monitoring using sensor data Evaluation of Common Data Environments (CDEs) in metro projects Awards: 2017 Emerald Literati Network Awards for Excellence (Highly Commended Paper) 2016 Emerald Literati Network Awards for Excellence 2006 CETI Outstanding Mind Honorable Mention Grants & Funding: Projects funded by TUBITAK and EU frameworks Research on BIM adoption supported by ITU grants Labs/Teams: Leads the BIM and Smart Construction Research Group at ITU, collaborating with Metropolitan Municipality Fire Department and international partners.
Assoc. Prof. Deniz Artan holds a PhD in Building Sciences from Istanbul Technical University and serves in the Civil Engineering Department. Their research focuses on Project and Construction Management, Construction Contracts Management, and FIDIC Contracts. They have advised numerous graduate theses on topics like digital contract systems, risk assessment in PPP projects, and blockchain applications in construction. Education: PhD in Building Sciences, Istanbul Technical University (2006-2010) MA in Informatics in Construction Management (2000-2002) Bachelor's in Architecture (1997-2001) Research interests include construction dispute resolution mechanisms, BIM implementation challenges, and sustainable construction practices. They received the 2016 Emerald Publishing Outstanding Paper Award for work on construction mediation practices. Recent articles analyze smart contract impacts on claim management, digital twin adoption, and pandemic effects on construction sites. Their work bridges legal frameworks, technological innovation, and occupational safety in complex projects. Prof. Artan has no registered patents but actively contributes to editorial roles, including Court Connected Construction Mediation Practice . Their advising portfolio spans 24+ theses since 2014, emphasizing real-world industry challenges.
Ulas Yaman is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Middle East Technical University (ODTÜ), Ankara, Turkey. He holds a PhD (2014), MSc (2010), and BSc (2007) in Mechanical Engineering from ODTÜ, with a minor in Mechatronics. His academic career includes a Visiting Assistant Professor role at Purdue University (2014-2015) and Research Assistant positions at ODTÜ (2007-2014). Education: PhD, Mechanical Engineering, ODTÜ (2007-2014) MSc, Mechanical Engineering, ODTÜ (2007-2010) BSc, Mechanical Engineering, ODTÜ (2003-2007) Minor in Mechatronics, ODTÜ (2004-2007) Professor Yaman's research focuses on 3D Printing, Additive Manufacturing, CAD/CAM architectures, FPGA-based embedded systems, and computational geometry for manufacturing . His work addresses challenges in dimensional accuracy, interior structure optimization, and command generation paradigms for CNC and 3D printing systems. He developed the LIPRO pipeline, leveraging Python-based scripting and List Processors to reduce G-code file sizes by up to 99.7% in FDM applications. Scientific Contributions: Fundamental advancements in 2.5D curve offset generation using mathematical morphology Innovative shrinkage compensation techniques for FDM 3D printing Hybrid manufacturing systems integrating additive and subtractive processes Query-based CAD/CAM architectures for heterogeneous printing Real-time interpolator implementations on FPGA hardware Awards & Grants: Best Paper Award, IEEE Workshop on Intelligent Solutions in Embedded Systems (2016) TÜBİTAK 1001 Project Grant (2017-2020) for Hybrid Manufacturing Systems TÜBİTAK 3001 Grant (2017-2018) for LIPRO Pipeline Development ODTÜ-BAP Grant (2016) for Dimensional Accuracy Improvement TÜBİTAK PhD Scholarship (2010-2014) As an educator, he has taught advanced courses including ME 533 - Computer-Aided Design and ME 414 - System Dynamics at ODTÜ since 2015. His laboratory leads projects on smart manufacturing systems and develops open-architecture platforms for experimental validation of novel fabrication paradigms.
Dr. Ekrem Cem Alppay serves as Assistant Professor at Istanbul Technical University's Faculty of Architecture, Department of Industrial Product Design. Holding a doctorate in Industrial Product Design (2007) and Master's degree (2000) from Istanbul Technical University, he has over two decades of academic experience since his 1997 graduation from Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University. PhD: Industrial Product Design, Istanbul Technical University (2007) MSc: Industrial Product Design, Istanbul Technical University (2000) BSc: Industrial Design, Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University (1997) Dr. Alppay's research focuses on product design with particular emphasis on inclusive design , usability engineering , and human-computer interaction . His work applies Kansei engineering to analyze emotional responses to design features, with applications in coffee makers, baby strollers, and gaming hardware. He explores connections between user experience and technical specifications in technology-driven products. His publication record includes key contributions to entertainment computing, design society proceedings, and engineering journals. Recent work examines projection-based interfaces (2023), game controller ergonomics (2024), and AI-supported design personas (2025). He has supervised numerous graduate theses on topics ranging from micro-mobility vehicles to shopping mall apps. Dr. Alppay leads current research projects on virtual reality shopping experiences (2023-2024) and design personas (2023-2024). His methodological approach combines usability evaluation heuristics with affinity diagram analysis , focusing on user-centered optimization in both consumer electronics and medical equipment design.
Kasım Erdem serves as a Researcher in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Istanbul Technical University's College of Engineering. His work focuses on advanced thermal systems and nanofluid applications, with significant contributions to heat transfer enhancement methodologies. His primary research interests span Nanofluid Engineering , Heat Transfer Enhancement , and Artificial Neural Network applications in thermal systems. Erdem specializes in predicting thermophysical properties of nanofluids, optimizing cooling systems, and developing integrated methodologies for thermal efficiency improvement. His fingerprint analysis reveals strong activity in nanofluid flow dynamics, hybrid nanofluid characterization, and specific heat prediction. Recent publications demonstrate a clear trend toward machine learning applications in thermal engineering, particularly using artificial neural networks to model complex nanofluid behaviors. His 2021-2025 research output shows consistent focus on experimental validation of computational models for both single-phase and nanofluid-based cooling systems. h-index: 27 (Scopus) Total Citations: 27 Erdem maintains active research collaborations across international networks, with particular emphasis on nanofluid applications in thermal management systems. His Scopus profile indicates significant readership engagement (51+ Mendeley readers) and citation impact across four major publications.
Melike Gürel is a Professor at the Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (ITU). Her academic journey includes roles such as Vice Dean (2012–2015) and Vice President of the Department (2010–2012). She holds a PhD in Environmental Engineering from ITU (1996–2000), following a Master's (1992–1994) and BSc (1988–1992) in the same field. Her research focuses on environmental systems modeling, water pollution control, and watershed management. Key projects include nutrient load estimation in the Melen Watershed, groundwater vulnerability assessments in Dalyan, and integrated management strategies for coastal lagoons. She employs tools like SWAT, DRASTIC, and GIS to address environmental challenges. Her publications highlight contributions to water quality modeling, eutrophication control, and climate change impacts on water resources. Notable works include analyses of disinfection byproducts and applications of bioremediation in wastewater treatment. She actively participates in organizations like the International Water Association and the Turkish Chamber of Environmental Engineers. Melike Gürel has advised on projects involving urban wastewater reuse, agricultural impacts, and sustainable basin management. Her work bridges technical modeling with policy frameworks, emphasizing practical solutions for environmental sustainability.
Prof. Dr. Ozlem Karahan Ozgun is a Professor at Istanbul Technical University's Department of Environmental Engineering within the Faculty of Civil Engineering. Her research focuses on treatment plant design, water pollution control, and environmental systems modeling. She holds a PhD in Environmental Engineering from ITU and has over 25 years of academic and research experience. Key research areas include wastewater treatment technologies, biodegradation processes, and sustainable resource recovery. Notable projects include studies on nanofiltration for textile wastewater, ozone-based EDC removal, and renewable energy integration in treatment plants. She has led projects funded by TÜBİTAK and TTO, addressing challenges in agro-food industries, biopolymer production from wastewater, and water reuse strategies in agriculture. Prof. Ozgun has authored over 50 publications and actively contributes to international conferences. She is a member of the International Water Association and serves on the Turkish National Committee for Water Pollution Research and Control.
Prof. Dursun Zafer Şeker is a faculty member at Istanbul Technical University , where he holds the Department of Geomatics Engineering within the Faculty of Civil Engineering . His work spans Geographic Information Systems , Remote Sensing , and Photogrammetry , with a focus on integrating Deep Learning and UAV technologies for disaster management, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure analysis. Education: PhD in Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering (1989) and Master's in Photogrammetry Engineering (1985), both from Istanbul Technical University. Career: Progressed from Research Assistant (1986-1996) to Professor (2004-present), with administrative roles in academic governance. His research explores GIS applications in transportation accessibility, forest fire prevention, and earthquake response. He has pioneered the use of Deep Learning for medical imaging (e.g., multiple sclerosis lesion segmentation) and agricultural disease classification , while also advancing UAV-based monitoring for coastal and archaeological sites. Recent publications highlight a shift toward AI-driven remote sensing for disaster resilience, including super-resolution techniques for historical imagery and object detection in post-earthquake building collapse mapping. Trends emphasize multi-source data fusion (LiDAR, satellite), climate change adaptation , and urban sustainability . Scientific Awards: Dursun Zafer Şeker Prize, FIG Young Surveyors' Competition (2023) Best Poster/Best Short Presentation Awards at MESAEP (2017), Selçuk University (2016), and Çukurova University (2016) Recognition at International Conferences (2015-2025) for remote sensing and geospatial innovation. As an advisor, he has supervised over 20 PhD and Master’s students , spanning topics like gas pipeline leak detection , PM2.5 prediction , and solar plant site selection . His grants include projects funded by TÜBİTAK and Ministry of Development , such as ORBIS and Forest Fire Decision Support Systems . He also serves on editorial boards for International Journal of Environment and Geoinformatics and Map Magazine .
Prof. Himmet Karaman is a Professor at Istanbul Technical University's Department of Geomatics Engineering, part of the Faculty of Civil Engineering. His research focuses on GIS applications, earthquake damage estimation, urban resilience, and disaster management. He holds a PhD in Geomatics Engineering from Istanbul Technical University (2008). Educational Background: PhD in Geomatics Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (2003–2008) MSc in Geomatics Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (2001–2003) BSc in Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (1997–2001) Research Interests: Prof. Karaman’s work integrates geospatial technologies with disaster risk reduction, including earthquake vulnerability analysis, decision support systems, and urban immunity strategies. He has developed tools like HAZTURK for seismic risk assessment and contributed to projects like Antarctica GNSS monitoring. His studies often combine GIS, machine learning, and multi-criteria decision analysis. Awards: Most Successful Thesis Award, Istanbul Technical University (2021) Grants & Projects: He led projects such as the ‘Turkey National Geographic Information System Infrastructure Project’ and ‘Risk Assessment for Base Station Towers in Istanbul.’ His work includes collaborations on nuclear accident vulnerability frameworks and cellular network path loss prediction using GeoAI. Professional Roles: Member of AFAD Advisory Board, The Resilience Advisors Network, and International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering. He has served as Department Vice President and Board Member at Istanbul Technical University.
Prof. Dr. Ahmet Ozgur Dogru is a full Professor at the Department of Geomatics Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (ITU), affiliated with the College of Civil Engineering. He holds a PhD in Geomatics Engineering from ITU and has over 20 years of academic experience, including roles as a Research Assistant, Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Visiting Professor at institutions like the University of Applied Sciences and Ghent University. Education: PhD in Geomatics Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (2009) MSc in Geomatics Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (2004) BEng in Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (2002) Research Interests: Remote Sensing and GIS applications in urban planning and environmental management Climate change impact analysis on water resources and urban heat islands 3D modeling of cultural heritage and infrastructure systems Spatial decision support systems for disaster management Socioeconomic factors influencing urbanization and migration patterns Grants & Projects: PI of projects such as 'Monitoring of Drugs and Other Psychoactive Substances from Wastewater' (2017–2018) Lead researcher for the 'Türkiye Spatial Strategy Plan Preparation Project' (2019) Contributions to climate change studies and basin management plans (e.g., Küçük Menderes River Basin) Labs/Teams: Involved in interdisciplinary teams addressing spatial planning, environmental monitoring, and disaster resilience through GIS and remote sensing technologies.
