ITU EELISA

Department of Computer Engineering

Mehmet Aksu — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:24:35 +0000

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Laboratory /Department /Institute /Centre Name	Visual Intelligence Lab / Department of Computer Engineering
Brief description of the Centre/Research Group (Please provide a brief description of your research group or organisational unit, including research infrastructure, laboratory facilities, team size and industry collaborations.)	Prof. Ekenel’s research focuses on trustworthy and human-centric artificial intelligence, with core expertise in computer vision, machine learning, and multimodal AI systems. His work addresses key challenges in robust visual understanding under real-world conditions, including biometrics, facial and human behavior analysis, document intelligence, and anomaly detection, with increasing emphasis on multimodal learning and foundation models. He develops methods that ensure reliability, generalization, and fairness of AI systems in unconstrained environments. Prof. Ekenel has a strong track record of international collaboration, actively contributing to projects funded by the European Commission and national agencies. His research is aligned with Horizon Europe priorities, particularly in AI for health, inclusive and assistive technologies, and secure and trustworthy AI systems. His group is interested in participating in collaborative projects involving: Human-centric and trustworthy AI Multimodal and foundation models AI for healthcare and assistive technologies Biometrics, identity, and security applications AI robustness, explainability, and deployment in real-world scenarios Interdisciplinary applications of AI in ecology/biodiversity, archaeology, and material science Prof. Ekenel is open to collaboration, contributing expertise in algorithm development, system integration, dataset design, and evaluation, as well as leading technical work packages.
Research Area (Please provide 5–10 keywords that best describe your research areas and expertise.)	Computer Vision Machine Learning & Deep Learning Multimodal AI Human-Centric AI & Human Behavior Analysis Biometrics Trustworthy & Robust AI Document Intelligence AI for Healthcare & Assistive Technologies Interdisciplinary AI Applications Anomaly Detection
Please list your relevant previous projects, indicating the programme, project name, year and role.	Jan. 2024 – Dec. 2027, Partner, “Meetween: My Personal AI Mediator for Virtual Meetings”, Horizon Europe Research Grant Oct. 2023 – Oct. 2027, Management Committee Member, “InsectAI – Using Image-based AI for Insect Monitoring & Conservation”, European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) Programme Feb. 2022 – Feb. 2025, Partner, “Deep Learning and Computer Vision Assisted Multi-UAV Search and Rescue System”, the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK) Research Grant March 2022 – March 2024, Partner, “Online Platform Design for Remote Usability Evaluation: UXDigi”, the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK) Research Grant Oct. 2020 – Oct. 2023, Partner, “Low Resolution Face Recognition”, the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK) and Slovenian Research Agency Research Grant Oct. 2020 – Oct. 2024, Management Committee Member, “International Interdisciplinary Network on Smart Healthy Age- friendly Environments”, European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) Programme Sept. 2020 – Sept. 2024, Management Committee Member, “Network on Privacy-Aware Audio- and Video-Based Applications for Active and Assisted Living”, European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) Programme Oct. 2017 – April 2022, Management Committee Member, “Indoor Living Space Improvement: Smart Habitat for the Elderly”, European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) Programme March 2017 – March 2021, Management Committee Member, “Multimodal Imaging of Forensic Science Evidence – tools for Forensic Science”, European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) Programme June 2013 – May 2017, Principal Investigator, “Multimodal Face Processing”, EU FP7 Marie Curie Career Integration Grant Jan. 2014 – Dec. 2016, Principal Investigator, “Artificial Vision for Assisting Visually Impaired in Social Interactions”, the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK) and German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) Intensified Cooperation Grant. COST Action: IC1206 \| De- identification for Privacy Protection in Multimedia Content Oct. 2013 – Sept. 2015, Principal Investigator, “A Unified Framework for Face Analysis”, TUBITAK Career Grant. COST Action: IC1303 \| Algorithms, Architectures and Platforms for Enhanced Living Environments (AAPELE) Oct. 2012 – Sept. 2015, Partner, “Collaborative Annotation of Multi- Modal, Multi-Lingual and Multimedia Documents (CAMOMILE)”, FP7 ERA-NET CHIST-ERA Programme. COST Action: IC1307 \| The European Network on Integrating Vision and Language (iV&L Net) April 2012 – March 2014, Partner, “Affective Computing for Mobile HCI: Integrating Efforts for an Industry-informed Contemporary Module”, British Council within the UK-Turkey Knowledge Partnership Programme July 2010 – Sept. 2011, Researcher, “VIPSAFE: Automated Visual monitoring for Improving Patient SAFEty”, German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) April 2010 – Sept. 2011 Principal Investigator, “Facial Image Processing and Analysis”, German Research Foundation (DFG) within the framework of the German Excellence Initiative Jan. 2010 – Sept. 2011, Principal Investigator, “Robust Face Detection Using Multiple Cues”, German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) Jan. 2009 – Sept. 2011, Researcher, “Gesture Based Human Computer Interaction in Emergency Management Systems”, German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) May 2008 – Sept. 2011, Researcher, Task Leader, “Quaero”, French State Agency for Innovation (OSEO) June 2004 – Sept. 2011, Researcher, “SFB 588 Humanoid Robots – Learning and Cooperating Multimodal Robots”, German Research Foundation (DFG) June 2004 – Dec. 2007, Researcher, “CHIL – Computers in the Human Interaction Loop”, European Union under the Sixth Framework Programme, Integrated Project
Proposed Project Idea or Area of Interest (If applicable, please briefly outline a concept idea, the problem you aim to address, or your specific area of interest.)	His group is interested in participating in collaborative projects involving: Human-centric and trustworthy AI Multimodal and foundation models AI for healthcare and assistive technologies Biometrics, identity, and security applications AI robustness, explainability, and deployment in real-world scenarios Interdisciplinary applications of AI in ecology/biodiversity, archaeology, and material science
Potential Contributions to Projects	Scientific / technical research Methodology development ☐ Modelling / simulation Data analysis / artificial intelligence Experimental studies / testing ☐ Pilot / demonstration activities ☐ Socio-economic analysis / policy contribution Education, dissemination and impact activities ☐ Other (please specify):
Preferred Role in Consortia	☐ Coordinator Partner
Programmes and Calls of Interest (Please indicate the programme(s) you are interested in and, if possible, specify the call identifier and/or title.)	Horizon Europe Clusters Erasmus+ Digital Europe EIT (HEI / KIC, etc.) MSCA ☐ ERC ☐ Other (please specify):
Additional Notes (Please provide any additional information or specific remarks you would like to share with the International Projects Office.)

Department of Int. Architecture

Mehmet Aksu — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:21:19 +0000

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Laboratory /Department /Institute /Centre Name	Faculty of Architecture-Department of Int. Architecture
Brief description of the Centre/Research Group (Please provide a brief description of your research group or organisational unit, including research infrastructure, laboratory facilities, team size and industry collaborations.)	Our research group operates at the intersection of building physics, climate-responsive design, computational modelling, and AI-assisted architectural optimization, with a strong focus on sustainable and adaptive building envelope systems. The group integrates: Advanced simulation tools (CFD, ENVI-met, EnergyPlus, Radiance, and Experimental Architectural Projects, Wind Tunnel study etc.) Parametric design platforms (Grasshopper, Rhino, Python-based workflows) AI-supported optimization frameworks Key research capacities include: Urban microclimate modelling and outdoor thermal comfort analysis Passive design strategies and low-energy building systems Climate-adaptive façade and envelope systems Integration of traditional knowledge with contemporary sustainable technologies The group actively collaborates with: Academic institutions Local authorities and municipalities Industry partners in sustainable construction and environmental design
Research Area (Please provide 5–10 keywords that best describe your research areas and expertise.)	Building Physics Urban Microclimate Outdoor Thermal Comfort Climate-Responsive Design Passive Design Strategies Parametric Design Artificial Intelligence in Architecture Building Envelope Optimization Sustainable Urban Design Environmental Simulation
Please list your relevant previous projects, indicating the programme, project name, year and role.	Urban Microclimate Analysis of Mediterranean Cities Programme: Academic Research Year: 2014 Role: Principal Researcher AI-supported Building Envelope Optimization Tool Development Programme: Academic Publication (Q1/Q2 target) Year: Ongoing Role: Author-Lead Developer Traditional Turkish Housing & Building Physics Integration Study Programme: Academic Publication (Q1/Q2 target) Year: Ongoing Role: Author Climate-Responsive Refugee Housing Design (Post-war Syria) Programme: International Academic Submission Role: Lead Author
Proposed Project Idea or Area of Interest (If applicable, please briefly outline a concept idea, the problem you aim to address, or your specific area of interest.)	This study aims to produce a decision support tool that uses artificial intelligence in order to support responsive architecture in a changing climate with minimal input and early-stage design thinking. The main objectives of this study are: – Optimizing building envelope design for various objectives – Evaluating thermal, visual, and acoustic properties simultaneously – Utilizing urban microclimates in design decisions for buildings – Integrating traditional vernacular design with digital design tools The final tool will be a user-friendly design tool for architects, planners, and policymakers that will provide a simple and rapid means of comparing sustainable design opportunities in a wide variety of climates.
Potential Contributions to Projects	Scientific / technical research Methodology development Modelling / simulation Data analysis / artificial intelligence Experimental studies / testing Pilot / demonstration activities ☐ Socio-economic analysis / policy contribution Education, dissemination and impact activities ☐ Other (please specify):
Preferred Role in Consortia	Coordinator Partner
Programmes and Calls of Interest (Please indicate the programme(s) you are interested in and, if possible, specify the call identifier and/or title.)	Horizon Europe Clusters Erasmus+ Digital Europe EIT (HEI / KIC, etc.) MSCA ERC ☐ Other (please specify): Climate-Neutral Cities AI in Sustainable Design Energy-Efficient Building Systems Urban Resilience And Adaptation
Additional Notes (Please provide any additional information or specific remarks you would like to share with the International Projects Office.)	The research group is highly motivated to participate in interdisciplinary and international consortia, particularly those integrating: Architecture + AI Climate science + urban design Digital tools + sustainability policy We are especially interested in projects that: Produce implementable tools and real-world impact Combine simulation, data, and design Address climate adaptation at both building and urban scales The group is open to: Leading work packages Developing digital tools and methodologies Contributing to dissemination and impact strategies

Metallurgical and Materials Eng. Dept

Mehmet Aksu — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:06:29 +0000

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Laboratory /Department /Institute /Centre Name	Combustion Synthesis Lab (M-303), Metallurgical and Materials Eng. Dept,
Brief description of the Centre/Research Group (Please provide a brief description of your research group or organisational unit, including research infrastructure, laboratory facilities, team size and industry collaborations.)	Metallurgical Furnaces, Pyrometallurgical Reactors, Thermochemical Modeling Software, Metallurgical Equipments.
Research Area (Please provide 5–10 keywords that best describe your research areas and expertise.)	Thermochemical modeling, CALPHAD, Materials desing (High-entropy Alloy, Shape memory alloys, Ti-based, Ni-based Intermetallics, Metallic glasses, Advanced Ceramics) Pyrometallurgy, Iron-Steel Metallurgy, Non-Ferrous Metallurgy, Slag chemistry, SHS (self-propagating high-temperature synthesis),
Please list your relevant previous projects, indicating the programme, project name, year and role.	Production and Characterization of High-Entropy AlxCoCrFeNi-M (M = Mo, Cu, Mn) Alloys via Self-Propagating High-Temperature Synthesis (SHS) Programme: TÜBİTAK 1001 (No: 119M086) Year: 2022 (leader) Production and Characterization of Shape Memory Ni-Ti-X (X = Cu, Nb, Fe) Alloys via SHS, Programme: International TÜBİTAK (No: 213M556), TÜBİTAK–Italy (CNR) Bilateral Cooperation Year: 2017(leader) Modeling Studies and Practical Applications to Improve Liquid Steel Cleanliness and Efficiency in Diler Iron and Steel Plants (Phase I & II) Programme: Industry Collaboration (Diler Steel / Asil Steel, ITU-Nova) Year: 2022 (leader) Development of Tungsten-Free Complex Boride-Based Composite Materials via SHS for Protective Coating (Hardfacing) Applications Programme: International TÜBİTAK (No: 213M555), TÜBİTAK–Russia (RFBR) Bilateral Cooperation Year: 2016 (leader)
Proposed Project Idea or Area of Interest (If applicable, please briefly outline a concept idea, the problem you aim to address, or your specific area of interest.)	Iron-Steel Production Metallurgical Recycling Non-ferrous metallurgy, (Copper, Lead, Zinc, RE’s etc) Alloy design for defences of other purposes
Potential Contributions to Projects	☐ Scientific / technical research ☐ Methodology development Modelling / simulation ☐ Data analysis / artificial intelligence Experimental studies / testing ☐ Pilot / demonstration activities ☐ Socio-economic analysis / policy contribution ☐ Education, dissemination and impact activities ☐ Other (please specify):
Preferred Role in Consortia	☐ Coordinator Partner
Programmes and Calls of Interest (Please indicate the programme(s) you are interested in and, if possible, specify the call identifier and/or title.)	Horizon Europe Clusters Erasmus+ Digital Europe EIT (HEI / KIC, etc.) MSCA ☐ ERC ☐ Other (please specify):
Additional Notes (Please provide any additional information or specific remarks you would like to share with the International Projects Office.)

Faculty of Science and Letters

Mehmet Aksu — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:01:58 +0000

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Laboratory /Department /Institute /Centre Name	Faculty of Science and Letter, Chemistry Department, Moleculer Modelling and Machine Learning Laboratory
Brief description of the Centre/Research Group (Please provide a brief description of your research group or organisational unit, including research infrastructure, laboratory facilities, team size and industry collaborations.)	Our research group focuses on the application of machine learning and computational modelling for chemical and materials discovery. We develop data-driven approaches for drug design, molecular property prediction, and materials optimization. Our work integrates cheminformatics, molecular simulations, and artificial intelligence, including active learning and deep learning methods. The group has experience with molecular dynamics simulations, cheminformatics pipelines, and predictive modelling, and collaborates with interdisciplinary partners in computational and experimental domains.
Research Area (Please provide 5–10 keywords that best describe your research areas and expertise.)	Drug discovery, molecular modelling Machine Learning, cheminformatics, molecular dynamics, molecular docking
Please list your relevant previous projects, indicating the programme, project name, year and role.	Discovery of molecules targeting RNA methylation enzymes using molecular docking, molecular dynamics, and active machine learning Programme: TÜBİTAK 3501 Role: Principal Investigator Discovery of selective molecules for HDAC isoforms using machine learning methods Programme: Scientific Research Project (Higher Education Institutions) Period: 31/05/2023 – 07/12/2023 Role: Principal Investigator Discovery of HDAC6-selective inhibitors using deep learning approaches Programme: Scientific Research Project (Higher Education Institutions) Period: 01/03/2021 – 13/02/2022 Role: Principal Investigator In silico optimization, synthesis, and biological evaluation of novel BCL-2 inhibitors Programme: TÜSEB Period: 07/06/2020 – 07/06/2023 Role: Researcher Development of diagnostics, drug formulations, and vaccines against HIV, HPV, and Influenza Programme: TÜBİTAK 1004 Period: 28/03/2020 – 30/09/2022 Role: Researcher
Proposed Project Idea or Area of Interest (If applicable, please briefly outline a concept idea, the problem you aim to address, or your specific area of interest.)	Development of active learning-driven platforms for efficient discovery of bioactive molecules and functional materials. The project aims to integrate machine learning, molecular simulations, and experimental validation to accelerate the identification of high-performance compounds while minimizing data requirements.
Potential Contributions to Projects	Scientific / technical research Methodology development Modelling / simulation Data analysis / artificial intelligence ☐ Experimental studies / testing ☐ Pilot / demonstration activities ☐ Socio-economic analysis / policy contribution Education, dissemination and impact activities ☐ Other (please specify):
Preferred Role in Consortia	☐ Coordinator Partner
Programmes and Calls of Interest (Please indicate the programme(s) you are interested in and, if possible, specify the call identifier and/or title.)	Horizon Europe Clusters ☐ Erasmus+ Digital Europe ☐ EIT (HEI / KIC, etc.) MSCA ERC ☐ Other (please specify):
Additional Notes (Please provide any additional information or specific remarks you would like to share with the International Projects Office.)	Open to interdisciplinary collaborations combining computational and experimental approaches, particularly in AI-driven drug discovery and materials design. Interested in both academic and industry partnerships.

Faculty of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering

Mehmet Aksu — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 23:58:42 +0000

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Laboratory /Department /Institute /Centre Name	Faculty of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering
Brief description of the Centre/Research Group (Please provide a brief description of your research group or organisational unit, including research infrastructure, laboratory facilities, team size and industry collaborations.)	Our research group focuses on the design, modelling, and control of autonomous surface and underwater vehicles (ASVs, AUVs, ROVs), with a strong emphasis on sensor fusion, AI-based approaches, and reinforcement learning for autonomous navigation and decision-making in complex marine environments. The team currently comprises 8 graduate members, including research assistants and thesis students, though the group size varies depending on active projects. The group has been involved in several funded projects supported by the European Union, TÜBİTAK, and the Presidency of Defence Industries (SSB). The group has access to key experimental infrastructure, including an indoor towing/test pool (160 m × 6 m) and an outdoor lake facility, enabling hydrodynamic parameter estimation, system identification experiments, and full-scale field trials of autonomous vehicles.
Research Area (Please provide 5–10 keywords that best describe your research areas and expertise.)	Autonomous Underwater/Surface Vehicles Reinforcement Learning Sensor Fusion System Identification AI-based Navigation Hyperspectral image processing
Please list your relevant previous projects, indicating the programme, project name, year and role.	ADVISOR: Development of Escort Autonomous Surface Vehicle, EU ITEA & TÜBİTAK 1509, 2024–Present, Researcher (head of D7 team, WP4 leader) Development of a Maneuvering Mathematical Model for ONR Tumblehome Ship (RL-based), TÜBİTAK 1001, 2025–Present, PI. KİDAPORT: Autonomous Surface Swarm Development (Multi-Agent RL), SSB SAGA, 2025–Present, Researcher (head of D7 team). IoT Based Inventory Management, EU & TÜBİTAK 1509, 2023–Present, Researcher. Multi-Static Radars and Target Tracking, TÜBİTAK BİLGEM ATAM, 2022–2024, Researcher. UWB Relative Navigation and Swarm Formation, HAVELSAN R&D, 2023–2024, Researcher. Swarm Drone Coordination: Autonomous Swarm & Sensor Fusion, Aselsan / SSB TKP, 2017–2019, Advisor. Underwater Glider Development, TÜBİTAK 1512, 2018–2019, PI. Sensor Fusion and Swarm Control for Mobile Sensor Networks, Atılım University, 2017–2018, Advisor. TUYGUN: Advanced Image Processing, SSB–HAVELSAN, 2014–2017, Researcher.
Proposed Project Idea or Area of Interest (If applicable, please briefly outline a concept idea, the problem you aim to address, or your specific area of interest.)	1. HORIZON-CL3-2026-01-BM-01 – Border Security Building on our previous application under this call, where we are developing an autonomous underwater glider for maritime border surveillance, we now propose a coordinated swarm of autonomous sail drones. The swarm will be integrated with unmanned aerial vehicles capable of landing on the surface platforms, forming a persistent, multi-domain surveillance network. Our group contributes autonomy algorithms based on multi-agent reinforcement learning, sensor fusion for situational awareness, and vessel design capabilities. 2. HORIZON-CL5-2026-10-D6-10 – Multimodal Transport Istanbul is a natural testbed for multimodal transport, connecting ferries, ships, ro-ro services, bridges, and railed systems across two continents. We propose investigating how expanded sea-based transport lines can ease the congestion burden on land infrastructure. Our approach combines reinforcement learning and optimisation algorithms to model and improve route planning and resource allocation across transport modes. We can also facilitate engagement with relevant government bodies. 3. HORIZON-CL5-2027-03-D5-16 – Autonomous Short Sea / Inland Shipping We aim to contribute to the development of autonomous surface vessels for short sea and inland shipping. Our group can design and implement autonomy algorithms, develop safety and security systems for inland vessels, and carry out vessel design and testing using our experimental infrastructure. The faculty’s towing pool and outdoor lake facility allow for validation from model-scale to full-scale trials.
Potential Contributions to Projects	Scientific / technical research ☐ Methodology development Modelling / simulation Data analysis / artificial intelligence Experimental studies / testing Pilot / demonstration activities ☐ Socio-economic analysis / policy contribution Education, dissemination and impact activities ☐ Other (please specify):
Preferred Role in Consortia	Coordinator Partner
Programmes and Calls of Interest (Please indicate the programme(s) you are interested in and, if possible, specify the call identifier and/or title.)	Horizon Europe Clusters ☐ Erasmus+ Digital Europe EIT (HEI / KIC, etc.) ☐ MSCA ☐ ERC Other (please specify):
Additional Notes (Please provide any additional information or specific remarks you would like to share with the International Projects Office.)	Beyond the proposed project ideas listed above, our group is flexible and open to collaboration in adjacent areas. We are actively involved in industrial optimisation, IoT, cloud-based systems, and agricultural technologies, including the ongoing development of an autonomous weeding vehicle. We welcome opportunities to contribute to consortia where our expertise in AI, reinforcement learning, sensor fusion, and autonomous systems can add value, even outside the maritime domain.

Mechanical Engineering Dept

Mehmet Aksu — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 23:53:32 +0000

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Laboratory /Department /Institute /Centre Name	TRIBOLOGY AND LASER TECHNOLOGIES LAB.
Brief description of the Centre/Research Group (Please provide a brief description of your research group or organisational unit, including research infrastructure, laboratory facilities, team size and industry collaborations.)	Our lab includes 5 people; Chief In Charge, Assoc.Prof.Dr.Abdullah Tasdemir, Main Researcher, Dr.Orhun Bastekeli Researcher(PhD.(C)) Buse Ortac Bastekeli, Researcher Safa Ünal, Mustafa Şengül
Research Area (Please provide 5–10 keywords that best describe your research areas and expertise.)	Tribology, Boundary lubrication, Lubricant additives, Hard Coatings, Super-Low Friction, Surface Engineering, (Modifying surfaces for optimizing friction, lubrication, heat transfer performances) *Manufacturing With Direct Laser Beam (Milling, Turning, Welding, Polishing, Sintering)
Please list your relevant previous projects, indicating the programme, project name, year and role.	Elmas Benzeri Karbon kaplamaların sentetik yağlar ve yağ katkı ürünleri ile sınır yağlama koşullarında sürtünme ve aşınma davranışlarının incelenmesi (İTÜ BAP birimi, Safa Ünal, Hacı Abdullah Taşdemir 2025) Lazer tekstürleme yöntemiyle talaşlı imalatta kullanılan tungten karbür malzemelerin tribolojik ve mekanik özelliklerinin iyileştirilmesi (İTÜ BAP, Emin Orhun Baştekeli, Buse Ortaç Baştekeli, Hacı Abdullah Taşdemir, Fatih Hayati Çakır, 2024) * Freze takimlarinin tekstürizasyon ile aşinma ömürlerinin iyileştirilmesi(İTÜİKİP-L, Hacı Abdullah Taşdemir,M. Furjan (nanjing university of aeronautics and astronautics nuaa-çin,)Emin Orhun Baştekeli, Buse Ortaç Baştekeli ) * lazer ile tekstürize edilmiş yüzey geometrisine sahip kendinden yağlamali yüksek performansli matkap ucu (kym) geliştirilmesi (TÜBİTAK -1001 , Hacı Abdullah Taşdemir, Buse Ortaç Baştekeli Emin Orhun Baştekeli,)
Proposed Project Idea or Area of Interest (If applicable, please briefly outline a concept idea, the problem you aim to address, or your specific area of interest.)	Our Lab’s Area of Interest topics have same importance which can be briefly described as; Surface Texturization For Wetting/Coating Capabilites (Hydrophobia, Lubrication, Coating Integration etc..) Surface Texturization For Minimum/Maximum Friction Performance(Cutting Tools, Engine Components) Surface Texturization For Heat Transfer(Boilers,Fins etc..) Laser Micro Manufacturing( Micro channel milling, micro part turning, welding/brazing, sintering and polishing)
Potential Contributions to Projects	Scientific / technical research Methodology development Modelling / simulation Data analysis / artificial intelligence Experimental studies / testing ☐ Pilot / demonstration activities ☐ Socio-economic analysis / policy contribution ☐ Education, dissemination and impact activities ☐ Other (please specify):
Preferred Role in Consortia	Coordinator Partner
Programmes and Calls of Interest (Please indicate the programme(s) you are interested in and, if possible, specify the call identifier and/or title.)	Horizon Europe Clusters Erasmus+ Digital Europe EIT (HEI / KIC, etc.) MSCA ERC ☐ Other (please specify):
Additional Notes (Please provide any additional information or specific remarks you would like to share with the International Projects Office.)

Mechanical Engineering Department

Mehmet Aksu — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 23:48:55 +0000

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Laboratory /Department /Institute /Centre Name	High Temperature Heat Transfer Laboratory/Mechanical Engineering Department
Brief description of the Centre/Research Group (Please provide a brief description of your research group or organisational unit, including research infrastructure, laboratory facilities, team size and industry collaborations.)	The High Temperature Heat Transfer Laboratory focuses on research in thermal sciences and energy systems. Although the laboratory title emphasizes high temperature heat transfer, our research activities extend to several related areas, including refrigeration system modeling and experimental investigations of refrigeration systems, studies of boiling heat transfer phenomena, and energy consumption analysis of cooking devices involving radiation, convection, and conduction. The laboratory provides a well-equipped experimental workspace with advanced measurement and diagnostic facilities, including data acquisition systems, experimental apparatus, precision measurement instruments, a high-speed camera, a thermal imaging camera, and spectrophotometric equipment. Many of our research projects are carried out in collaboration with industry and are supported by industrial partners. The research team currently consists of two faculty members, two PhD students, and typically three to four undergraduate students who actively contribute to ongoing research projects. In recent years, the laboratory has also begun integrating artificial intelligence techniques into its research activities, particularly through the application of Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) and other deep learning approaches for modeling and analysis.
Research Area (Please provide 5–10 keywords that best describe your research areas and expertise.)	Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer, Computational Fluid Dynamics, Two Phase Flow, Pool Boiling, Thermoelectric Cooling, AI Cooling, Insulation Panels, Electronic Valves Investigation of the Stack Structure with the Ventilation and the Cavity in the Domestic Built-in Ovens, TUBITAK+Industry, 2008-2010, Advisor
Please list your relevant previous projects, indicating the programme, project name, year and role.	Radiation Heat Transfer in Improving Energy Efficiency for the Enclosures, TUBITAK+Industry, 2011-2013, Principal Investigator Analysis of the Insulation in in Improving Energy Efficiency for the High Temperature Processes in Enclosures, TUBITAK+Industry, 2013-2015, Principal Investigator Design for Energy Efficiency in Boiling, TUBITAK+Industry, 2015-2017, Principal Investigator Improvement of Steam Generator for Domestic Ovens, Industry, 2018-2020 Ejector Embedded Domestic Refrigerator, Industry, 2021-2022, Principal Investigator. Hybrid Thermoelectric and Vapour Compression Refrigeration, Industry, 2025-2026, Pr,nc,pal Investigator Vacuum Insulation Panels, Industry, 2025-2026, Principal Investigator Microchannel Evaporators, Industry, 2025-2026, Principal Investigator
Proposed Project Idea or Area of Interest (If applicable, please briefly outline a concept idea, the problem you aim to address, or your specific area of interest.)	Our laboratory is interested in collaborative research focusing on the integration of advanced modeling techniques and experimental investigations in thermal systems. One potential research direction involves the application of Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) and other deep learning approaches for the modeling, optimization, and performance prediction of innovative refrigeration systems. Such approaches can combine physical laws with data-driven methods to improve system design, fault detection, and energy efficiency. Another area of interest is high-temperature heat transfer in cooking and industrial ovens. This research may include the analysis of heat transfer mechanisms involving radiation, convection, and conduction, as well as the study of thermal insulation materials, thermal bridges, and temperature distribution within oven cavities. Experimental measurements combined with numerical modeling and AI-based approaches could be used to improve thermal efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and optimize oven design. Through these research directions, we aim to develop advanced methodologies for thermal system analysis and contribute to the development of more energy-efficient refrigeration and heating technologies.
Potential Contributions to Projects	Scientific / technical research Methodology development Modelling / simulation Data analysis / artificial intelligence Experimental studies / testing ☐ Pilot / demonstration activities ☐ Socio-economic analysis / policy contribution ☐ Education, dissemination and impact activities ☐ Other (please specify):
Preferred Role in Consortia	Coordinator Partner
Programmes and Calls of Interest (Please indicate the programme(s) you are interested in and, if possible, specify the call identifier and/or title.)	Horizon Europe Clusters ☐ Erasmus+ ☐ Digital Europe ☐ EIT (HEI / KIC, etc.) ☐ MSCA ERC ☐ Other (please specify):
Additional Notes (Please provide any additional information or specific remarks you would like to share with the International Projects Office.)	Based on the research focus and technical expertise of the laboratory, the following programmes and thematic areas are considered most relevant. In this context, Horizon Europe calls and the ERC Programme will remain key instruments under our radar, while Digital Europe Programme opportunities will also be closely monitored where appropriate. Horizon Europe – Cluster 5: Climate, Energy and Mobility Within this cluster, particular attention will be given to calls related to energy‑efficient heating and cooling technologies, including advanced, sustainable, and low‑carbon thermal systems. Topics addressing thermal comfort, energy efficiency, and waste heat recovery are especially aligned with the laboratory’s research profile. Horizon Europe – Cluster 4: Digital, Industry and Space This cluster may offer relevant opportunities in areas such as AI for engineering and industrial systems, advanced modelling, and digital twins, particularly where digital solutions are applied to the design, optimization, and performance prediction of thermal and industrial systems. Digital Europe Programme – AI, Digital Twins and Advanced Modelling Under the Digital Europe Programme, topics related to Artificial Intelligence, digital twins, and advanced modelling, especially AI Testing and Experimentation Facilities (TEFs), are of strong interest. These calls may complement Horizon Europe by supporting the deployment and validation of AI‑based solutions in industrial and energy systems. Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Actions (MSCA) – Doctoral Networks & ERC Programmes MSCA Doctoral Network and ERC projects are also considered relevant, for example with a focus on AI‑driven thermal system modelling, combining advanced numerical methods, experimental validation, and data‑driven approaches for next‑generation heating and cooling technologies. Examples of Potentially Relevant Upcoming Calls Some forthcoming or announced calls that may be suitable for involvement include: Sustainable, inclusive, affordable and beautiful solutions for thermal comfort in buildings HORIZON‑NEB‑2026‑01‑REGEN‑01 Opening date: 05 May 2026 \| Deadline: 01 December 2026 \| Single‑stage Researching the technical, social and economic factors impacting the energy performance of Smart Buildings (Built4People Partnership) HORIZON‑CL5‑2026‑09‑D4‑01 Opening date: 05 May 2026 \| Deadline: 15 September 2026 \| Single‑stage Transition to low‑temperature heating solutions in multi‑apartment buildings HORIZON‑MISS‑2026‑04‑CIT‑02 Opening date: 04 February 2026 \| Deadline: 08 October 2026 \| Single‑stage Energy efficiency and sustainability of AI data processing in Data Centres (IA) HORIZON‑CL4‑2027‑04‑DATA‑09 Opening date: 17 November 2026 \| Deadline: 18 March 2027 \| Single‑stage (forthcoming) Thermal energy optimisation and waste heat recovery of high energy demand IT rooms in buildings or small edge data centres HORIZON‑CL5‑2027‑05‑D4‑06 Opening date: 05 May 2027 \| Deadline: 15 September 2027 \| Single‑stage Demonstration of industrial excess/waste heat conversion to mechanical or electrical power HORIZON‑CL5‑2027‑05‑D4‑09 Opening date: 05 May 2027 \| Deadline: 15 September 2027 \| Single‑stage

Department of Architecture

Mehmet Aksu — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 12:39:15 +0000

Information Field	Provided Information
Laboratory /Department /Institute /Centre Name	Architectural Design Computing Graduate Program Department of Architecture Istanbul Technical University
Brief description of the Centre/Research Group (Please provide a brief description of your research group or organisational unit, including research infrastructure, laboratory facilities, team size and industry collaborations.)	Researcher conducts design-driven research at the intersection of computational design, robotic fabrication, and human–robot collaboration in the built environment. Her work explores how emerging technologies, particularly robotics, AI-supported systems, and digital fabrication, can enable new forms of sustainable construction, circular material practices, and knowledge exchange across disciplines. Through experimental prototyping and interdisciplinary collaborations, she develops intuitive robotic workflows that connect technological innovation with design practice, cultural knowledge, and socially sustainable construction.
Research Area (Please provide 5–10 keywords that best describe your research areas and expertise.)	Computational design Human–robot collaboration Robotic fabrication systems Creative computational tool development Craft knowledge and embodied making Cultural heritage technologies Circular material systems in the built environment Human-centred technologies
Please list your relevant previous projects, indicating the programme, project name, year and role.	• ITU Scientific Research Projects (BAP) – Integration of Motion Capture and Craft Knowledge into Robotic Fabrication: A Comprehensive Methodological Investigation through Sensor Data – 2025 – Principal Investigator Development of AI-supported robotic workflows for sustainable clay-based architectural prototyping integrating material sensing and craft knowledge. • Ernst Mach Grant – Worldwide (OeAD, Austria’s Agency for Education and Internationalisation) – Bridging Knowledge Across Architectural Heritage and Robotics – 2022–2023 – Visiting Doctoral Researcher Development of robotic workflows for context-aware material processing in architectural heritage applications. • Salzamt Residency / University of Arts Linz, Austria – Digitizing Rhythm: Robotic Marbling with Collaborative Robot Online Programming – 2023 – Principal Investigator Experimental investigation of collaborative robotic motion informed by embodied craft knowledge, focusing on rhythm, speed, and gesture dynamics. • Creative Robotics / University of Arts Linz, Austria – digital.werk: Providing Access to Digitalisation in the Real World – Introducing Robotics to New User Groups – 2022–2024 – Researcher (as part of Visiting Fellowship at Creative Robotics) Development and facilitation of interdisciplinary robotics workshops enabling knowledge transfer between robotics and disciplines such as archaeology and cultural heritage. • ITU Scientific Research Projects (BAP) – Transferring Architectural Construction Knowledge into Parametric Robotic Fabrication Codes – 2022–2024 – Researcher Development of a methodological framework using robotics to bridge architectural heritage research and contemporary fabrication processes. • TÜBİTAK 1001 Project, Turkey – Developing Computational Methods for Modeling Building Components Using Photogrammetry Data in the Documentation of Historic Structures – 2020–2023 – Researcher Research on computational relationships between historical construction techniques and digital modelling methods for heritage documentation.
Proposed Project Idea or Area of Interest (If applicable, please briefly outline a concept idea, the problem you aim to address, or your specific area of interest.)	My research explores intuitive robotic workflows that enable people from diverse knowledge domains such as architects, designers, and craftsmen to collaborate with robotic systems in real time. The aim is to preserve tacit knowledge while integrating digital fabrication and Industry 5.0 principles. Particular interests include robotic fabrication for circular construction, material reuse strategies, human-centred AI and robotics, and co-creation between technological and cultural practices.
Potential Contributions to Projects	Scientific / technical research Methodology development Modelling / simulation ☐ Data analysis / artificial intelligence Experimental studies / testing Pilot / demonstration activities ☐ Socio-economic analysis / policy contribution Education, dissemination and impact activities Other (please specify): Can lead Work Packages related to robotic prototyping and demonstrators, digital workflow development, and human–robot collaboration for design, construction, and material innovation.
Preferred Role in Consortia	☐ Coordinator Partner
Programmes and Calls of Interest (Please indicate the programme(s) you are interested in and, if possible, specify the call identifier and/or title.)	Horizon Europe Clusters Erasmus+ Digital Europe EIT (HEI / KIC, etc.) MSCA ERC Other (please specify): Specific call identifier and/or title: Relevant Horizon Europe clusters: Cluster 2 – Culture, Creativity and Inclusive Society Cluster 4 – Digital, Industry and Space Cluster 5 – Climate, Energy and Mobility (circular construction and sustainable materials) Cluster 6 – Bioeconomy (biomaterials and sustainability)
Additional Notes (Please provide any additional information or specific remarks you would like to share with the International Projects Office.)	Design-driven research exploring human–robot collaboration, AI-supported robotic fabrication, and craft-informed approaches to circular and culturally embedded material practices. The research contributes to emerging European agendas such as Industry 5.0 and the New European Bauhaus, exploring how robotic systems can support human-centred, culturally informed and circular construction practices.

Informatics Institute

Mehmet Aksu — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 13:42:00 +0000

Information Field	Provided Information
Laboratory /Department /Institute /Centre Name	Informatics Institute
Brief description of the Centre/Research Group (Please provide a brief description of your research group or organisational unit, including research infrastructure, laboratory facilities, team size and industry collaborations.)	Our research group focuses on the de novo drug design studies covering a broad spectrum of targets, ranging from microbial proteins to disease-associated proteins in humans by utilizing generative AI and molecular modeling methods. We have access to the national high-performance computing center (UHeM) at Istanbul Technical University, where we conduct large-scale molecular dynamics simulations and high-throughput virtual screening using state-of-the-art computational methods. For post-processing, our laboratory is equipped with three dedicated workstation computers. In addition, we have a license for the Schrödinger software suite. By combining these computational resources, we aim to accelerate the identification of potential therapeutic lead molecules against specific proteins. We collaborate with medical microbiologists, medical biologists, pharmaceutical chemists, and medical biophysicists to validate the activity of the molecules against the target proteins.
Research Area (Please provide 5–10 keywords that best describe your research areas and expertise.)	Biomolecular Modelling, Computer-Aided Drug Desing, in silico peptide inhibitor design through generative AI, Molecular Dynamics Simulation, Protein-ligand Interactions
Please list your relevant previous projects, indicating the programme, project name, year and role.	• Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TÜBİTAK) – 1001 Program, Development of novel inhibitors for adeABC efflux pump regulatory proteins adeR and adeS to combat antibiotic resistance of Acinetobacter baumannii, 2024, Researcher • Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TÜBİTAK) – 1001 Program, Discovery of mitofusin inhibitors through virtual screening and explanation of their biological mechanisms of action, 2025, Researcher • TÜSEB Group B – Research and Development (R&D) Project Support Program, Design of novel BAM Protein Inhibitor Peptide Antibiotics Using Generative Deep Learning Methods, 2025, Principal Investigator • TÜSEB Group B – Research and Development (R&D) Project Support Program, Development of Non-Sugar-based Molecules Targeting the FimH Lectin Protein of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) Responsible for Urinary Tract Infections, 2025, Principal Investigator • Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TÜBİTAK) – 1001 Program, Design of GPX4 Inhibitor Peptides Using Artificial Intelligence and Evaluation of Antitumor Activity in Glioblastoma Cells, 2026, Principal Investigator
Proposed Project Idea or Area of Interest (If applicable, please briefly outline a concept idea, the problem you aim to address, or your specific area of interest.)	Designing novel peptides or small molecules for therapeutic and other purposes (biosensors, diagnostics)
Potential Contributions to Projects	☐ Scientific / technical research ☐ Methodology development Modelling / simulation ☐ Data analysis / artificial intelligence ☐ Experimental studies / testing ☐ Pilot / demonstration activities ☐ Socio-economic analysis / policy contribution ☐ Education, dissemination and impact activities ☐ Other (please specify):
Preferred Role in Consortia	☐ Coordinator Partner
Programmes and Calls of Interest (Please indicate the programme(s) you are interested in and, if possible, specify the call identifier and/or title.)	Horizon Europe Clusters ☐ Erasmus+ Digital Europe EIT (HEI / KIC, etc.) MSCA ☐ ERC ☐ Other (please specify):
Additional Notes (Please provide any additional information or specific remarks you would like to share with the International Projects Office.)

Apply Now for the ITU EELISA Short-term Researcher Mobility Call 2026!

Mehmet Aksu — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 11:33:28 +0000

We are pleased to announce the launch of the EELISA – ITU Internal Call for Short-term Researcher Mobility Call 2026, designed to strengthen ITU’s research ties within the EELISA European University Alliance. This initiative supports short, strategic research visits—up to 3 days—to partner institutions within the EELISA network, enabling ITU researchers to build partnerships, co-develop project proposals, and engage with EELISA Communities.

Who can apply?

ITU postdoctoral researchers and faculty members
ITU administrative staff holding a PhD
Supervisors of student teams and clubs proposing collaborative research projects

Why apply?

Accelerate joint proposals for EU programs like Horizon Europe¹
Access shared research infrastructures across EELISA partners
Strengthen ITU’s leadership in European research and innovation

¹For detailed information on Horizon Europe 2025 Programme Click Here

Application deadline is May 31, 2026

For inquiries: eelisa@itu.edu.tr
Application form, required documents and further details can be found in the official call document

Join us in advancing impactful, interdisciplinary, and cross-border research—shaping the future of engineering and innovation in Europe!