Prof. Dr. Sakibe Nalan BÜYÜKKANTARCIOĞLU is a Professor at Çankaya University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Translation and Interpreting Studies (English). She previously served as Professor (2007–2019), Associate Professor (2000–2007), and Assistant Professor (1997–2000) at Hacettepe University, Department of English Linguistics. PhD in English Linguistics (Hacettepe University, 1991) MA in English Language Teaching (Middle East Technical University, 1985) BA in English Teaching (Istanbul University, 1978) Her research spans Linguistics, Cognitive Linguistics, Discourse Analysis, Psycholinguistics, Sociolinguistics, Translation Studies , with a focus on figurative language, interjections, political discourse, and endangered languages. She received the European Language Award (2011) and has supervised numerous PhD and MA theses, including work on Turkish idioms, gender representation, and language awareness. A prolific editor and conference participant, she has contributed to interdisciplinary projects and publications on Turkish sociolinguistics.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sema Alaçam Doğan has been affiliated with Istanbul Technical University since 2014, serving as an Associate Professor in the Department of Architecture . She has held administrative roles including Deputy Head of Department and Erasmus Coordinator. Education : PhD in Informatics in Architectural Design (2008-2014), MS in Informatics in Architectural Design (2005-2008), and BS in Architecture (1999-2005) from Istanbul Technical University. Her research explores Computational Design , Artificial Intelligence in Architecture , and Sustainable Material Innovation . She investigates digital tools for heritage preservation, daylight optimization in BIM, and cognitive development in architecture students. Recent publications analyze AI-assisted design literacy , machine learning for Sinan mosques , and environmental comfort in Harran houses . Her work integrates algorithmic frameworks with sustainable practices. Scientific awards include multiple ITU Publication and Performance Awards (2021-2024), FABFEST Prizes , and the 2024 Artemis Educator Award from NASA. Active projects like "Physical Computation in Architectural Drawing" and "Robotic Fabrication with Recycled Wind Turbine Blades" demonstrate her leadership in computational and sustainable research.
Dr. Ayşe Nihan AVCI is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Interior Architecture, Faculty of Architecture at Çankaya University. She holds a PhD in Design (2022), Master's in Interior Architecture (2017), and Bachelor's in Interior Architecture (2010) from the same institution. Her research focuses on lighting design's impact on health and well-being, biophilic design principles, and OLED/LED lighting technologies. She has been a full-time faculty member since 2015, progressing from Research Assistant (2015-2022) to Doctoral Researcher (2022-2024) before her current role. Education: PhD in Design, Çankaya University (2017-2022) MSc in Interior Architecture, Çankaya University (2014-2017) BSc in Interior Architecture, Çankaya University (2005-2010) Research Interests: Her work integrates lighting science with human-centric design principles, emphasizing: Salutogenic lighting strategies for health promotion OLED technology's circadian rhythm effects Biophilic daylighting in historical buildings Visual comfort in workplaces Publications: Over 15 peer-reviewed articles (2016–2025) focus on OLED/LED lighting applications, circadian rhythms, and daylighting in heritage buildings. Recent work explores salutogenic design in coffee shop environments and workplace environmental quality. Awards: No specific awards listed, but active in academic service: Member of Aydınlatma Türk Milli Komitesi since 2017 Member of TMMOB İç Mimarlar Odası since 2010 Reviewer for journals including PLANARCH Grants & Projects: Led a university-supported research project (2020–2021) on lighting design's health impacts. Currently teaches courses on lighting design, materials science, and interior design fundamentals.
Doç. Dr. Muhammed Aras is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Baskent University (Başkent Üniversitesi), with a research focus on sustainable machining processes, tool wear monitoring, and surface roughness optimization. His work spans advanced manufacturing technologies, energy storage systems, and biomedical device design. PhD in Manufacturing Engineering (2018), Gazi Üniversitesi MSc in Mechanical Education (2013), Gazi Üniversitesi BSc in Mechanical Engineering (2010), Tabriz Islamic Azad University Research interests include sustainable machining (dry/hard turning, cooling-lubrication strategies), tool wear analysis (CBN, ceramic and coated inserts), and surface integrity optimization using AI-based methods (firefly algorithm, TOPSIS, Grey Relational Analysis). His 15 most recent articles (2017-2024) examine topics like: Surface roughness prediction in dry hard turning Energy storage technology viability assessments Cutting parameter optimization for various steels Acoustic/vibration monitoring in machining He has received scientific awards including the Teşvik Ödülü (Encouragement Award, 2015). His patent on an automatic orthognathic surgery articulator and book chapters on tool monitoring systems demonstrate his multidisciplinary impact.
Burak Sunguralp Tekin is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Translation and Interpretation at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University. His academic career includes positions as both Lecturer (2021-2022) and Assistant Professor (2022-present) at the same institution. Dr. Tekin's research primarily focuses on human sociality and the interplay of language, bodies, and technology, with particular emphasis on embodied interaction, social practices, and multimodal communication. Dr. Tekin's educational background includes: Doctorate (2014-2019) from University of Basel, Switzerland, with dissertation "Bodies at play: Exploring participation, spectatorship, and morality in videogaming activities" Postgraduate studies (2012-2013) from University of Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom, with thesis "Smiles and affective alignment in naturally occurring dyadic academic supervisions" Undergraduate degree (2006-2010) from Hacettepe University, Turkey Dr. Tekin's research interests center on social interaction, multimodal communication, and embodied practices. His work examines how people coordinate their actions, bodies, and language in various contexts including gaming, photography, public spaces, and pandemic-related social adaptations. He employs conversation analysis and multimodal interaction analysis to investigate the micro-details of human sociality, with particular attention to how technology mediates social practices. His research bridges sociology, linguistics, and human-computer interaction to understand the embodied nature of social organization. Analysis of Dr. Tekin's recent publications reveals a consistent focus on embodied social interaction across diverse contexts. His work demonstrates sophisticated methodological approaches to studying how people coordinate their movements, manage social spaces, and create meaning through multimodal resources. A notable trend is his examination of how social practices adapt during extraordinary circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as his sustained interest in gaming activities and their social organization. His collaborative work with Lorenza Mondada is particularly prominent in the field of conversation analysis. Dr. Tekin has taught various courses including Multimodal Communication, Introduction to Applied Linguistics, Language and Communication, Language Acquisition, Consecutive Interpreting, Intercultural Communication, World Englishes, Applied Linguistics, Turkish Grammar, Language Culture and Society, and Discourse Analysis at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. His teaching reflects his research expertise in communication, language, and social interaction.
Ayşe Hilal Uğurlu is an Associate Professor in the Department of Architecture at MEF University's Faculty of Arts, Design and Architecture. She completed her PhD in the History of Architecture program at Istanbul Technical University in 2012 with a dissertation titled 'Selim III's Istanbul: Building Activities In The Light Of Political and Military Transformations.' Uğurlu has held prestigious fellowships including a senior fellowship from ANAMED at Koç University (2014), a Barakat Trust Post-Doctoral Fellowship at Oxford University (2017-18), and Barakat Trust Major Awards (2018-19). Her research focuses on the social, political, and architectural history of the Ottoman Empire, with particular attention to the 18th-19th centuries. Uğurlu has co-edited three significant books: 'Ottoman Architectural Culture' (2016), 'Sacred Spaces + Urban Networks' (2019), and 'The Friday Mosque in the City: Liminality, Ritual, and Politics' (2020). She is currently leading a research project with Dr. Deniz Türker exploring the roles of Ottoman royal women during the 18th-19th centuries, funded by MEF University Scientific Research Projects (2023-2025) and scheduled for publication by Cambridge University Press in 2025. Uğurlu's scholarly work reveals a consistent focus on the intersection of architecture, politics, and religious practice in Ottoman Istanbul. Her publications demonstrate particular expertise in imperial mosques, sacred spaces, and the transformation of religious practices during the 19th century. Her research often examines how architectural spaces functioned as political tools and social nuclei within Ottoman urban environments. Senior fellowship from ANAMED (Research Center for Anatolian Civilizations) at Koç University (2014) Barakat Trust Post-Doctoral Fellowship at the Khalili Research Centre, Oxford University (2017-18) Barakat Trust Major Awards (2018-19) Uğurlu actively contributes to academic discourse through numerous publications and conference presentations. Her current research project on Ottoman royal women represents a significant contribution to understanding women's roles in imperial power structures. While specific information about her advising activities isn't detailed in the source material, her extensive publication record and ongoing research projects indicate active engagement with academic scholarship and likely mentorship of students.
A. Alperen Günay is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Bilkent University . He previously served as an Assistant Professor at METU (2021-2023) and as a researcher at The University of Tokyo (2019-2021). Günay earned his PhD and MS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign under Dr. Nenad Miljkovic. Current Affiliation: Bilkent University Prior Affiliations: METU, University of Tokyo Education: PhD (UIUC), MS (UIUC), BS (METU) Research Focus : Developing green passive thermal devices through nanomaterials and phase change technologies. Key areas include radiative cooling , thermophotovoltaic systems , and nanomaterial-based heat sinks . His work spans energy conversion, thermal management, and optical property characterization. Scientific Awards : TÜBİTAK 2232-B Award Laboratory Leadership : Dr. Günay directs the Thermal Research & Optics Laboratory (TROL), focusing on projects like metal-organic framework systems , passive evaporative cooling , and greenhouse films for year-round thermal regulation .
Dr. Morteza Ghorbani is a researcher and faculty member at Sabancı University's Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences (FENS), specializing in fluid mechanics and environmental engineering. He leads the AquaCav project, a collaborative effort with Oxford Brookes University, focused on developing sustainable water treatment solutions using hydrodynamic and acoustic cavitation. His research addresses global challenges such as PFAS pollution and wastewater management, with applications in biomedical devices and energy-efficient technologies. Key collaborations include projects funded by the International Science Partnership Fund (ISPF), leveraging his expertise in microfluidic systems and cavitation dynamics. Dr. Ghorbani's work combines experimental and numerical methods to optimize cavitation-based processes for environmental and biomedical applications. His contributions span from fundamental fluid dynamics studies to applied technologies like flexible cystoscopes and clot-on-a-chip platforms. Scientific achievements include the ISPF Research Collaboration Grant (2024) and advancements in PFAS removal, graphene exfoliation, and microalgae cultivation. His research group at Sabancı University explores interdisciplinary solutions at the intersection of engineering, nanotechnology, and sustainability.
Prof. Dr. Ahmet ÖZMEN is a Professor at Sakarya University's Faculty of Computer and Information Sciences, Department of Software Engineering. He has held various administrative positions including Head of the Software Engineering Department (2019-2028) and Director of the Computer Research and Application Center (2019-2022). With extensive experience in academia since 1991, he has made significant contributions to computer vision, traffic monitoring systems, and sensor technologies. Sakarya University: Professor (2019-present), Associate Professor (2011-2019) Dumlupınar University: Assistant Professor (2001-2011), Research Assistant (2000-2001, 1993-1998) Istanbul Technical University: Research Assistant (1991-1993) Prof. ÖZMEN's research spans computer vision applications for traffic monitoring, indoor air quality systems, parallel computing, and sensor technologies. His work bridges theoretical computer science with practical engineering applications, particularly in developing vision-based systems for nighttime vehicle detection, traffic flow monitoring, and environmental sensing. His interdisciplinary approach combines machine learning, image processing, and embedded systems to solve real-world problems in transportation and environmental monitoring. His publication record shows a clear evolution from parallel and distributed systems in his early career to computer vision and sensor applications in recent years. The majority of his recent work focuses on traffic monitoring systems using computer vision techniques, particularly for nighttime conditions, and indoor air quality monitoring systems using sensor networks. His research demonstrates strong industry and societal relevance, with applications in smart transportation, environmental protection, and educational technology. TÜBİTAK Publication Awards (2006, 2008, 2009, 2010) Physical implementation award from TÜBİDER (2008) Microsoft Certified Professional Certificate (2005) YÖK overseas study scholarships (1993, 1998) Elginkan graduate scholarships (1990, 1991) Prof. ÖZMEN has supervised numerous graduate students across multiple institutions, with a focus on practical engineering problems. His research has been supported by various projects including TÜBİTAK projects, institutional research grants, and industry collaborations. He has led significant research initiatives in traffic monitoring systems, indoor air quality monitoring, and educational technology platforms. His administrative leadership has included directing research centers and shaping curriculum development in software engineering. His work has involved establishing research teams focused on computer vision applications, sensor network development, and educational technology. These teams have produced numerous publications, developed practical systems, and trained the next generation of computer engineers. Current research directions include advanced traffic monitoring systems using deep learning and multi-camera setups for urban planning applications.
Ozgur S. Oguz is an Assistant Professor at Bilkent University , Faculty of Computer Engineering, and the lead of the Learning for Intelligent Robotic Agents (LiRA) Lab . His research focuses on enhancing autonomous agents' capabilities in learning, reasoning, and planning, particularly for robotics applications. Education : PhD in Computer Science from TU Munich , studies at University of British Columbia (UBC) and Koç University , postdoctoral work at University of Stuttgart and Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems . His research explores algorithms for autonomous decision-making, with emphasis on deep learning , reinforcement learning , and robotics . Recent work includes diffusion-based reinforcement learning , hindsight experience prioritization , and hybrid manipulation planning , often addressing challenges in sequential task execution and tactile-based control. Key trends in his publications revolve around robotic manipulation , motion planning , and human-robot interaction . He has contributed to conferences like NeurIPS , ICRA , IROS , and journals such as IEEE TRO and Scientific Reports .
Tülin Haşlaman is an Associate Professor at the Department of Elementary Education - Primary Education, TED University. She holds roles as a Coordinator and Vice Head of Department. Her teaching portfolio includes courses such as Instructional Technologies, Technology-Enhanced Language Learning, and Micro Teaching, reflecting her expertise in educational technology and pedagogical innovation. Her research focuses on ICT integration in education, self-regulated learning strategies, and teacher development. Notable areas of interest include the use of digital storytelling for computational thinking, infographics in supporting student autonomy, and smartphone addiction among university students. She has also studied the impact of social media platforms like Facebook on teacher training and the integration of ICT into teaching processes. Dr. Haşlaman’s work emphasizes bridging technology with educational practices, particularly in primary education contexts. Her articles highlight themes such as pre-service teacher digital competency, disabled teachers’ technology integration challenges, and peer assessment in online environments. Despite her extensive academic contributions, she has no explicitly listed awards or grants in the provided materials. Her courses over the years span foundational education topics like Learning Environments, Observation in Schools, and Research Methods, demonstrating a commitment to both theoretical and applied aspects of education. While she has not specified any affiliated labs or teams, her teaching and research activities suggest active engagement in educational technology initiatives and teacher professional development programs.
Alipaşa Ayas is a Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Education at Bilkent University, where he also serves as Chair of the Department of Educational Sciences. His research focuses on science education, teacher training, conceptual understanding, and inclusive education. He has led numerous national and international projects, including UNICEF- and EU-supported initiatives. Ph.D., University of Southampton M.A., University of New Brunswick MSc., Karadeniz Technical University BSc., Karadeniz Technical University His research interests span teacher education, science education (particularly chemistry), concept development, curriculum design, and assessment strategies. He employs both qualitative and quantitative methods to explore these areas. His publications emphasize inquiry-based learning, conceptual change strategies, and the effectiveness of interventions such as the 5Es model, constructivist activities, and analogies in enhancing science learning. These works often address misconceptions in chemistry and methods to improve scientific process skills. He has contributed to projects supported by the World Bank, EU, and UNICEF, including initiatives on lifelong learning, education development, and inclusive teacher training. His administrative roles include a 6-year deanship at Karadeniz Technical University and leadership of Bilkent University’s Graduate School of Education since 2017.
Mustafa Özer Özkantar is a Lecturer at Gaziantep University's Faculty of Fine Arts, Department of Film Design and Management, where he has served since 2022. His academic career includes prior roles as a Teaching Assistant at Gaziantep University (2012-2022) and Erciyes University (2010-2012). He holds a PhD in Communication Sciences from Hacettepe University (2024) and a Master's in Media and Communication Sciences from Zirve University (2016). Research focuses on cinema, gender studies, semiotics, and media analysis. Supervised multiple Master's theses on topics like gender roles, body horror, and urban transformation. Published 21 articles and 9 book chapters, including feminist analyses of films like The Love Witch and Medusa . His recent works explore digital media's impact on gender roles, authorship in cinema, and cross-cultural comparisons of Turkish and American films. Özkantar has also served as a jury member and editorial reviewer in international film and communication conferences.
Olga Gkioka is an Assistant Professor of Physics Education at Boğaziçi University. Her research focuses on improving physics laboratory instruction and developing assessment practices for science education. She investigates teaching strategies for experimental physics and prepares pre-service teachers for effective laboratory teaching. Research examines: Assessment methods in physics investigations Teacher training for laboratory instruction Student reasoning in experimental physics Integration of mathematics in physics education Publications address tensions between formative and summative assessment approaches and develop frameworks for evaluating experimental evidence in science contexts.
Prof. Ahmet Mutlu Terzioglu is an Associate Professor at the Music Education Department of Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University's Education Faculty. His academic journey includes a PhD from Gazi University (2020), focusing on Music Education, and a Master's from Atatürk University (2015). He has held positions at Ağrı İbrahim Çeçen University and currently serves as Deputy Chair of the Department of Music Education. His research focuses on Turkish folk music integration into education, instrument teaching methods (e.g., melodika, bağlama), and early childhood music pedagogy. He has published extensively on topics like folk song analysis, music curriculum evaluation, and cultural heritage preservation. His recent work includes studies on the educational applicability of Denizli folk songs and the efficacy of the melodika instrument in achieving middle school music curriculum goals. Terzioglu actively participates in academic events, organizing concerts and cultural initiatives such as the 'Alkü Baharı Concert' and 'Commemorating Atatürk' events. He co-edited books like Türkülerle Melodika Eğitimi/Öğretimi and contributed chapters to volumes on music education methodologies.
