Prof. Dr. Burak Aricak is a faculty member at Bursa Technical University , where he serves in the Faculty of Forestry under the Department of Forest Engineering . His work integrates geospatial technologies and environmental science to address critical forestry challenges. Research Focus : Forest Road Planning, Harvesting Techniques, GIS & Remote Sensing Applications, and Ergonomics. Key Publications (2023-2025) explore climate change effects on forest species distribution, heavy metal accumulation in trees, soil respiration dynamics post-harvesting, and UAV/LiDAR advancements for biomass estimation. Contact : burak.aricak@btu.edu.tr | +90 (224)-8081101
Prof. Hande Demirel is a Professor at the Department of Geomatics Engineering, Istanbul Technical University. She holds a PhD in Geoinformatics from Technical University of Berlin (2002). Her academic career includes roles as Associate Professor (2008–2019) and Assistant Professor (2004–2008) at ITU, alongside research at the European Commission Joint Research Center (2011–2014). She specializes in GIS applications, remote sensing, photogrammetry, and spatial data analysis. Education: B.Sc. (1996) and M.Sc. (1998) in Geodesy & Photogrammetry from ITU, followed by a PhD in Geoinformatics (2002) from TU Berlin. Awards include Best PhD Award (2003), DAAD Scholarship (2007), and Best Poster Award (2016). Research focuses on transportation accessibility, climate change impacts, 3D spatial modeling, and BIM-GIS integration. She leads projects like 'Building Information Model Based Fire Evacuation Simulation' (TUBITAK-funded) and 'Spatio-Temporal Accessibility Analysis in Istanbul'. Key contributions include over 30 peer-reviewed publications, including works on land use prediction, ship detection via AI, and indoor navigation systems. She advises numerous graduate students, with 15+ theses supervised since 2009. Active in professional societies including the German and American Associations for Remote Sensing.
Prof. Orhan Akyilmaz is a Professor at the Department of Geomatics Engineering, College of Civil Engineering, Istanbul Technical University. He holds a PhD in Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering from the same university. His research focuses on geodesy, climate monitoring, and machine learning applications in environmental science. He has been affiliated with Istanbul Technical University since 1999, progressing through roles including Research Assistant, Assistant Professor, and Associate Professor before becoming a full Professor in 2013. Education: Dr. (PhD) in Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering (Istanbul Technical University, 2001–2005); M.Sc. (with thesis) in Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering (1999–2001); B.Sc. in Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering (1995–1999). Research interests include satellite geodesy, GRACE data analysis, groundwater monitoring, and climate hazard modeling. He has pioneered the use of machine learning for geodetic data interpretation and has contributed to global gravity field modeling projects like ITU_GRACE16 and ITU_GGC16. Awards and Memberships: TUJK Science Award (2011); Member of IAG Intercommission Committee on Theory (ICCT) and Turkish National Geodetic Commission (TUJK). His work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to environmental challenges, leveraging geodetic data for climate action and disaster response. His publications span over two decades, addressing topics like temporal gravity field analysis, deformation monitoring, and fuzzy logic in geodetic modeling. He collaborates internationally on projects such as the Earth Orientation Parameters Prediction Campaign and has advised on infrastructure stability via GPS monitoring.
Prof. Dr. Gursel Sunal is a Professor in the Department of Geological Engineering at Istanbul Technical University (ITU). He holds a PhD from Eberhard Karls Universitat Tubingen. His research focuses on Structural Geology, Active Tectonics, Paleoseismology, and Geochronology with emphasis on NW Turkey's geological evolution. Education: PhD in Structural Geology (2008, Tubingen), MSc (1998, ITU), BSc (1994, ITU). Key Research: Tectonic evolution of Anatolia, paleoseismic studies, continental crust dynamics, and geochronology of magmatic systems. Has led projects on Thrace Basin geothermal potential, Marmara Sea coastal uplift, and Pontides magmatism. Recent articles explore geothermal energy in Thrace, UAV-based coastal mapping, and Cretaceous magmatism. Supervised 5 PhD/MSc theses including studies on paleoseismology and archaeometric analyses.
Dr. Gülsüm Çiğdem Çavdaroğlu Akkoç is a full-time Assistant Professor in the Information Technologies Department at Işık University's Faculty of Economics, Administrative and Social Sciences. She holds a multidisciplinary background with degrees in Mathematics Engineering, Geomatics Engineering, and Turkish Language & Literature. Education Ph.D. in Photogrammetry Engineering – Yıldız Technical University (2006–2013) M.S. in Photogrammetry Engineering – Yıldız Technical University (2003–2006) B.S. in Mathematics Engineering – Yıldız Technical University (1998–2003) B.A. in Turkish Language & Literature – Anadolu University (2016–2020) Research Interests Dr. Akkoç's research spans remote sensing , GIS , and machine learning , with applications in environmental monitoring, urban mobility, and health informatics. Her work leverages satellite imagery, mobile data, and AI to address challenges such as wildfire detection, air pollution tracking, and disease diagnosis. She actively integrates spatial data with AI to support smart city development and sustainable resource management. Scientific Awards First Prize – Mobilya Ar-Ge Proje Pazarı (2013), Entrepreneurship Category Supervision & Projects She has supervised four master's theses and led several EU and national projects including: BEE-OPTECH4Honey : Optimizing beekeeping routes using ICT TOP4HoneyChain : A sustainable smart honey value chain platform Open Data Platform for Precision Agriculture Labs & Teams Dr. Akkoç collaborates with interdisciplinary research teams in the fields of AI, geospatial technologies, and agricultural informatics. Her lab activities include developing machine learning models for real-world applications in health, environment, and urban systems.
Prof. M. Devrim AKCA is a full Professor at the Department of Computer Engineering, Isik University, Istanbul, Turkey. Previously, he held academic positions at the same university in Civil Engineering (2019–2023) and Information Technologies (2009–2011). He earned his PhD in Photogrammetry from ETH Zurich (2007), followed by roles as Senior Research Associate and Research Assistant at ETH's Institute of Geodesy and Photogrammetry. His expertise spans photogrammetry, 3D modeling, laser scanning, and remote sensing. Education: Ph.D. in Geodesy and Photogrammetry (ETH Zurich, 2007) M.Sc. in Geodesy and Photogrammetry (Karadeniz Tech. U., 2000) B.Sc. in Geodesy and Photogrammetry (Karadeniz Tech. U., 1997) Research Interests: Focuses on 3D surface matching, laser scanner data analysis, cultural heritage documentation, and structural deformation monitoring. His work integrates advanced algorithms for precision in geomatics and environmental monitoring. Awards: Carl Pulfrich Award (2009) ETH Silver Medal (2008) ISPRS Young Author Award (2004) Publons Peer Review Awards (2017–2018) Grants & Roles: Editor for journals like ISPRS Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing. Served on technical committees for international conferences. Holds patents on TLS error modeling and mesh reconstruction.
Samet DOĞAN is a Lecturer at Kastamonu University's Ihsangazi Vocational School, Department of Architecture and Urban Planning. He has been serving in this position since 2021 and also holds administrative roles including Deputy Department Head since 2023 and Quality Commission Member since 2024. His academic career at Kastamonu University spans multiple departments and schools, including the Graduate Education Institute and Küre Vocational School. His educational background includes: PhD in Land Management and Use from Istanbul Okan University (2024) Master's Degree in Forest Engineering from Çankırı Karatekin University (2014-2018) BSc in Geomatics Engineering from Zonguldak Bulent Ecevit University (2007-2013) Dr. DOĞAN's research primarily focuses on Remote Sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Photogrammetry with applications in land management, urban planning, and disaster management. His work bridges technological advancements in geospatial sciences with practical applications in urban development and environmental management. He has developed expertise in machine learning applications for geospatial analysis, particularly in landslide susceptibility mapping and land cover change detection. His publication record shows a consistent research trajectory with recent emphasis on integrating drone technology, high-resolution DEMs, and machine learning techniques into traditional geospatial applications. His work spans from theoretical aspects of spatial analysis to practical implementations in urban planning and disaster response scenarios. Dr. DOĞAN has successfully led multiple research projects, including TÜBİTAK 2209-A projects on historical building 3D modeling and drone-supported mapping. His scientific impact is reflected in a Google Scholar h-index of 3 with 23 citations, indicating growing recognition in his field. He actively contributes to his professional community through memberships in the Chamber of Surveying and Cadastre Engineers and its specialized commissions on Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing, and GIS. He has served as a session chair and invited speaker at relevant conferences, demonstrating his engagement with both academic and professional communities.
Assoc. Prof. Adalet Dervişoğlu holds the position of Associate Professor at the Department of Geomatics Engineering within the Faculty of Civil Engineering at Istanbul Technical University (ITU). With a career spanning over three decades, he has held roles including Research Assistant (1987–1999 and 2018–2022), Lecturer/Assistant (2010–2022), and Doctorate Lecturer (2022–present). His expertise lies in Remote Sensing, Geomatics, and Measurement Information systems. Education: Bachelor's in Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering (1982–1986), ITU Master's with Thesis in Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering (1986–1989), ITU Master's without Thesis (1994–1995), University of Twente (ITC) Doctorate (PhD) in Geomatics Engineering (2013–2018), ITU Research Interests: Focused on advancing Remote Sensing technologies, Geomatics applications in environmental monitoring, and precision measurement systems. His work integrates interdisciplinary approaches in geodesy, photogrammetry, and GIS for practical engineering solutions. Professional Activities: No specific grants or awards mentioned, but his extensive research and teaching contributions reflect a deep engagement with academic and applied geospatial sciences. He has advised multiple projects and continues to contribute to the academic community through publications and teaching.
Prof. Ahmet Denker is a full Professor in the Department of Electrical-Electronics Engineering at Istanbul Bilgi University , where he has been serving since 2010. He also holds a Courtesy Professor position at the University of South Florida , USA, since 2021. Previously, he served as Professor at Girne American University, Cyprus International University, Eastern Mediterranean University, and Ankara University, and as Associate and Assistant Professor at Bogazici University. His academic background includes a PhD (1981) and MS (1978) in Computer-Control Engineering from the University of Sussex , and a BS in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Bogazici University (1977). His research lies at the intersection of engineering and digital humanities, with a strong focus on Computer Graphics, Volumetric Visualization, Robotics, Virtual Archaeology, and Archaeogaming . He specializes in the 3D digital reconstruction of cultural heritage sites, particularly the ancient city of Palmyra. His recent publications demonstrate a consistent trend in using advanced visualization and photogrammetry techniques to preserve and revive historical monuments. The works emphasize virtual reconstruction, cultural memory, digital preservation, and photo-realistic modeling , especially of the Great Temple of Bel in Palmyra. Virtual Archaeology Review (2017) Whittles Academic Publishing (2018) İstanbul Bilgi Üniversitesi Publications (2020) Austrian Academy of Sciences Press (2022) Prof. Denker has advised multiple research projects and publications in the domain of digital cultural heritage. While specific grant details are not listed, his international collaborations (e.g., with Italian scholar G. Fangi) and publications with academic presses suggest funded research activity. He is actively involved in interdisciplinary teams combining engineering and archaeology. He leads research efforts in virtual archaeology at Istanbul Bilgi University, working with digital modeling labs and interdisciplinary teams focused on heritage preservation through technology.
Cem GAZİOĞLU is a Professor at Istanbul University , affiliated with both the Institute of Marine Sciences and Management and the Faculty of Architecture (Department of Architecture). His academic career spans over two decades, with prior appointments at Istanbul Kültür University (2005-2013) and technical institutions. He holds a Doctorate in Marine Environment-Coastal Engineering (2001) and postgraduate degrees in Geomatics Engineering (1995, 1993). Research areas include Marine Sciences , Oceanography , Remote Sensing , and Environmental Pollution . Doctorate: Istanbul University , Institute of Marine Sciences and Management, Department of Marine Environment-Coastal Engineering (2001) Postgraduate: Istanbul Technical University , Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering Program (1995) Undergraduate: Istanbul Technical University , Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering (1993) His work focuses on coastal vulnerability , marine pollution , ship emissions , and climate change impacts on coastal zones. He employs remote sensing , GIS , and deep learning for coastal monitoring and environmental risk assessment. Recent studies include pharmaceutical residues in Arctic waters , antifouling paint biocides in the Sea of Marmara , and coastal inundation modeling . Publications highlight trends in satellite-derived bathymetry , coastal risk assessment , and maritime transport emissions . He has advised 38 graduate theses on topics like decarbonization in shipping , deep learning for coastal analysis , and marine environmental policy . His managerial roles include Director of the Institute and Member of the Senate at Istanbul University.
Ünal Anıl Doğan serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at Istanbul Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey, with continuous academic service since 2010. His research bridges fundamental material science with practical infrastructure applications through sustainable construction methodologies. His educational foundation includes: Licence (Bachelor's) from Istanbul Technical University (1991-1996) Advanced degree completed between 1996-2000 Doctorate awarded following research from 2000-2008 Dr. Doğan's research centers on Concrete Durability mechanisms including chloride penetration and long-term transport properties, Sustainable Construction Materials utilizing industrial byproducts like fly ash and ceramic waste, and Non-destructive Testing innovations. His fingerprint analysis reveals dominant expertise in rapid chloride testing (100%), fly ash applications (83%), and self-compacting concrete systems (66%), consistently advancing sustainable material solutions for structural engineering challenges. Publication analysis from 2009-2023 demonstrates evolving focus from fundamental durability testing toward waste-derived material innovation. Early work established methodologies for pozzolanic concrete benchmarking and cement-type transport properties, while recent research (2023) pioneers municipal solid waste incineration fly ash utilization in mortar systems, reflecting growing emphasis on circular economy principles in construction materials. As Principal Investigator, Dr. Doğan leads significant research initiatives: Active Project (2024-2026) : Development of self-healing alkali-activated geopolymers using ceramic waste, red mud, blast furnace slag, and white dross (TÜBİTAK) Completed Projects : Urban solid waste ash effects on concrete (2022-2024, BAP) Black Box concrete additive development (2021, TTO) ASR prevention in glass-aggregate mortars (2014-2021, BAP) Synthetic CSH compounds in self-compacting concrete (2014-2021, BAP) Curing effects on slag-enhanced concrete (2014-2021, BAP) He currently supervises seven graduate theses while maintaining active research collaborations across international institutions, as evidenced by multi-country project partnerships.
Prof. Elif Sertel is a Professor of Geomatics Engineering at Istanbul Technical University's Faculty of Civil Engineering, specializing in GIS, Remote Sensing, and Satellite Technologies. She holds a PhD from ITU (2008) and has conducted groundbreaking research on land use analysis, urbanization impacts, and geospatial AI applications. Her work integrates historical aerial photography with modern satellite data to model environmental and demographic changes. Notable projects include the GeoAI_LULC_Seg ERC-funded initiative analyzing rural depopulation and agricultural land abandonment in Turkey and Bulgaria since 1940. She has led over 30 research projects totaling €6M+, with notable funding from TÜBA, ERC, and the Ministry of Development. Awards include the 2024 Istanbul Technical University Academic Performance Award and the 2017 TÜBA Outstanding Young Scientist Award. Her teaching includes GIS in Engineering courses. Research focuses on: 1) AI-driven land cover segmentation using deep learning, 2) drought monitoring via satellite data, 3) urban heat island analysis, and 4) landscape metric correlations with satellite resolution. Recent work emphasizes historical data integration, with projects like the 1958-2020 Bursa land use study. Her team developed benchmark datasets (VHRTrees, HRPlanes) and tools like the GeoAI-based mobile drought app. Grants and projects: Over 30 completed projects including €150k ERC GeoAI_LULC_Seg (2022-2024), €5M ITU Satellite Ground Terminal Renewal (2016-2020), and TÜBA-funded city mapping initiatives. Collaborations with institutions like NASA, ESA, and European Research Council have produced over 50 peer-reviewed publications. Awards highlight sustained excellence: 2023-2024 Academic Performance Awards, 2024 Broadcasting Achievement Award, and 2017 TÜBA recognition. Her work bridges geomatics engineering with environmental policy through interdisciplinary approaches.
Prof. Turan Erden is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Geomatics Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Istanbul Technical University. His expertise lies in GIS applications for urban planning and disaster management, measurement techniques, and multi-criteria decision-making. He holds a PhD in Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering from ITU (2001), with earlier degrees from the same institution. Education: PhD in Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (2001) Master's Degree in Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (2001) Bachelor's Degree in Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (1998) Research focuses on integrating GIS with decision-support systems for earthquake hazard analysis, emergency facility planning, and spatial analysis. His work emphasizes multi-criteria decision-making methods like AHP and BWM, alongside remote sensing and geodetic techniques. Awards: 2016 Best Poster Presentation Award from Selcuk University. Teaching includes courses on geomatics engineering, surveying equipment, and disaster management, reflecting his commitment to both academia and practical applications.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Tevfik Özlüdemir is an Associate Professor at the Department of Geomatics Engineering, Civil Engineering Faculty of Istanbul Technical University (ITU). He holds a PhD in Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering from ITU (2002) and has been affiliated with the institution since 1991, progressing from Research Assistant to Assistant Professor (2007). His research focuses on geodesy, geomatics engineering, and GPS technology applications. Education: PhD: Istanbul Technical University, Department of Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering (1993–2002) MSc/Eng.: Istanbul Technical University, Geomatic Engineering (1990–1993) BEng.: Istanbul Technical University, Department of Geodesy and Photogrammetry Engineering (1986–1990) Research Interests: Dr. Özlüdemir specializes in geodetic techniques, satellite positioning systems, and geospatial data analysis. His work intersects with geophysics and photogrammetry, addressing challenges in environmental monitoring and urban infrastructure mapping. Professional Memberships: American Geophysical Union (2008–present) European Geophysical Union (2006–present) Australian GPS Society (2003–present) Turkish National Geodetic Commission (1992–present) Advising & Grants: While specific grants are not detailed, his academic role suggests involvement in supervising research projects and students in geomatics engineering. He actively contributes to the field through professional memberships and institutional leadership.
Aylin Tuzcu Kokal is a Researcher at the Department of Geomatics Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Istanbul Technical University (ITU). She holds a PhD in Geomatics Engineering from ITU (2019), an MSc (2017), and a BSc in Geomatics Engineering (2013). Her work focuses on remote sensing applications in environmental monitoring, including water quality analysis, land-use classification, and climate change impact assessments. She has conducted research on the Marmara Sea, Lake Burdur, and wetlands like Akgöl using multi-sensor satellite data. Education: PhD in Geomatics Engineering, ITU (2013–2019) MSc in Geomatics Engineering, ITU (2013–2017) BSc in Geomatics Engineering, ITU (2013) Research Interests: Remote Sensing, Environmental Monitoring, GIS Applications, Image Processing, Satellite Data Analysis, Water Quality Assessment. Recent Projects: Investigation of Akgöl Wetland with High Resolution Satellite Images (2018–2019, ₺74,989 budget) Monitoring chlorophyll-a and sea surface temperature in the Marmara Sea using multi-source data Teaching: Instructor for Advanced Remote Sensing (GEO 472E) GIS in Ecology (GIT 521E) Surveying (INS 232E) Grants/Projects: She led a project analyzing Akgöl Wetland dynamics using satellite imagery. Her research often integrates remote sensing with GIS and machine learning for environmental applications.
