Who is who?

Tolga Ayav is a distinguished academic in the field of Computer Engineering. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Dokuz Eylül University in 1995. Continuing his education, he obtained a master’s degree in Computer Engineering from the İzmir Institute of Technology in 1999, followed by a PhD in Computer Engineering from Ege University in 2004.

In 2005, he broadened his research experience by working as a researcher at INRIA Rhône-Alpes, a renowned French institute specializing in computer science and applied mathematics. Currently, he serves as a professor in the Department of Computer Engineering at the İzmir Institute of Technology, contributing to both research and education in the field.

Xander Lub is an accomplished academic with a background in Psychology. He studied Psychology at the University of Leiden and earned his PhD in Work and Organizational Psychology from the University of Tilburg. He began his academic career internationally at the University of Auckland in New Zealand, gaining valuable teaching and research experience.

For two decades, Xander contributed to the field of hospitality education, working at prominent institutions such as Hotelschool The Hague, Saxion, and Breda University of Applied Sciences (UAS). He has also held visiting appointments at VU University Amsterdam and Nyenrode Business University, further enriching his academic portfolio.

Since 2003, Xander has been actively engaged as a researcher, and in 2014, he advanced to the role of professor, reflecting his expertise and dedication to his field.

Erik Slingerland is a dedicated researcher specializing in the intersection of public values and digitalization. Since 2023, he has been working as a Researcher in Training within the Process Innovation and Information Systems lectorate, pursuing his research as a Professional Doctorate (PD) candidate.

With a BA in Public Administration and an MSc in Applied Artificial Intelligence, Slingerland’s academic background equips him with a unique perspective to address the challenges and opportunities of digitalization in the public sector. His work focuses on leveraging AI and Data Science to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the public domain, with the ambition to advance knowledge in these areas to support better governance and societal outcomes.

Gözde Türkcan has been serving as a Project Director at WEglobal’s Project Execution Unit since 2019, leveraging her extensive expertise in project management and GIS that dates back to 2008. Throughout her career, she has successfully led projects across a diverse range of sectors, including agriculture, environment, justice, ICT, and vocational education in Türkiye. These projects were funded by prominent entities such as the European Union, UNDP, WEglobal UNICEF, and national funding sources.

Certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP) by the Project Management Institute (USA), Gözde has developed a versatile skill set, combining strategic oversight with technical proficiency. Her contributions highlight her ability to deliver impactful results in complex, multidisciplinary environments.

Virág Zsár is a seasoned professional with more than a decade of experience in EU-funded research, innovation, and education projects. She has been actively involved in all aspects of project support, bringing her extensive knowledge and hands-on expertise to various initiatives. For five years, she led the Division for International Cooperation at HETFA Research Institute Ltd., where she played a key role in establishing and driving the institute’s strategic growth and success.

In addition to her practical experience, Virág is committed to academia and teaching. She currently teaches EU Project Management at the Catholic University of Péter Pázmány and is involved in various training activities related to the field. Furthermore, she is pursuing a PhD program at Corvinus University of Budapest, focusing on advancing her expertise and contributing to the academic body of knowledge in her area of specialization.

Dr. Saim Ervural completed his undergraduate and graduate studies in Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Selçuk University. He went on to earn his PhD from Konya Technical University in 2021. From 2015 to 2021, he served as a Research Assistant at Konya Technical University, contributing to various research projects.

Since 2021, Dr. Ervural has been an Assistant Professor at KTO Karatay University, and as of 2024, he has assumed the role of Department Chair at the same institution. In addition to his academic responsibilities, he was the Technology Transfer Office Manager for the 2023-2024 period and is currently the Director of the Smart Technologies Design Development and Prototyping Centre (STEDEC) Application and Research Center.

Dr. Ervural’s research interests include engineering and technology management, electrical-electronic systems, and technology transfer, with a focus on advancing both academic and practical applications in these areas.

Başak Özkan continues to build her expertise in project management, particularly in the context of EU-funded projects. She previously worked as a Project Coordinator at a consultancy firm, where she contributed significantly to the planning, implementation, and reporting processes of various projects.

Currently, she serves as both a Quality Manager and Administrative Expert at Smart Technologies Design Development and Prototyping Centre (STEDEC), where she plays a pivotal role in managing project workflows, ensuring quality control, and overseeing processes that require international collaboration. Her background in project coordination and quality management positions her as an integral part of the team, particularly in projects with a global scope.

Tarkan Gürbüz is an accomplished academic and professional in the field of Computer Education and Instructional Technology (CEIT) at Middle East Technical University (METU). In addition to his academic role, he holds various leadership positions, including on the Coordination Board of the METU BILTIR Center Digital Transformation Platform, the Board of Directors of the Global Development Learning Network (GDLN), and the Executive Sector Board of the Turkish Informatics Association (TBD). He also contributes to the Science and Advisory Boards of various institutions.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from METU, followed by both a master’s and PhD in CEIT from the same institution. Additionally, Tarkan Gürbüz holds an MBA in International Business from the MIB Trieste School of Management in Italy.

Tarkan Gürbüz is an Associate Professor specializing in Open and Distance Learning. His research interests are broad and include topics such as e-learning, instructional technologies, performance management, digital transformation, and the development of a qualified workforce. He is particularly focused on education and training for Industry 4.0, innovative practices in education, and the creation of next-generation learning environments.

Aslı İpek Tiryaki graduated with honors from the International Relations Department at Bilkent University in 2004. Early in her career, she worked as a Project Assistant at the Secretariat General for European Union Affairs, followed by a role as Coordinator for international projects at Ortadoğu Ltd. Şti..

In 2009, she gained valuable experience in SME development and clustering activities at the Eskişehir Chamber of Industry’s Industrial Development Center. Later, in 2013, Aslı served as the Human Resources Manager at TDM Otomotiv A.Ş., where she focused on human resources management in lean production processes.

Since March 2019, Aslı has been working as an International Relations Expert at ATAP A.Ş., which manages the Eskişehir Technology Development Zone. In December 2021, she expanded her responsibilities to include the role of Operation Coordination Unit Manager at the Eskişehir Design and Innovation Center.

Her diverse experience spans project management, human resources, SME development, and innovation, reflecting her expertise in both strategic operations and international relations.

Prof. Dr. Bilge Kağan Özdemir is a seasoned economist and academic with almost 25 years of experience in higher education, research, and leadership. He began his career in 1999 as a Research Assistant in Anadolu University’s Economics Department, where he later earned his PhD with a focus on financial crises. He also holds an M.A. in International Economics from Warsaw University.

In 2004, he conducted research at the Warsaw School of Economics supported by a Polish Ministry of Education scholarship,, and from 2011 to 2012, he was a visiting faculty member at SUNY College at Cortland, teaching International Finance and Special Topics in Economics. In 2014, he was awarded the title of Associate Professor by the Turkish Interuniversity Board. His leadership roles include directing Anadolu University’s International Relations Office (2014–2017, 2021–2023) and serving as the founding chair of the Council of Higher Education’s (YÖK) International Relations Department (2017–2020).

Appointed Full Professor in 2021, his research focuses on monetary and financial economics, renewable energy, and economic growth. His work has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Central Bank of Poland’s Best Master’s Thesis Award, the Economic Research Foundation’s Best Ph.D. Thesis Award, and the SUNY Award for Excellence in Instruction Technology Development

Dr. Viktorija Prilenska is an experienced architect and urban planner with a robust academic background and extensive professional experience. She holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Architecture and Urban Planning from Riga Technical University and completed her PhD in Urban Studies at the Estonian Academy of Arts.
Her academic work focuses on sustainable urban development, spatial planning, and community-driven design strategies. Over the years, Dr. Prilenska has contributed to numerous international research projects, offering innovative solutions for urban challenges and advancing planning methodologies.

Her career blends a deep understanding of architecture with practical urban planning strategies aimed at fostering sustainability and community involvement in design.

Coşkun Dolanbay is an entrepreneur, mentor, and leader with over 20 years of experience in technology, digital transformation, and innovation. He holds an MBA from Middle East Technical University (METU) and certifications in European Union, Development Economics, and International Development from Ankara University.

Dolanbay is the founder of companies like HyGames and DLB Digital and also a co-founder and President of the Futures Studies Institute. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated leadership in digital strategy, market entry, operations management, and innovation projects, providing consulting services to various ventures and organizations.

In his previous role, he served as the Middle East and Africa Director at Capita. Additionally, Dolanbay is an active contributor to the community, being a Board Member of the Turkish Informatics Association and a mentor in the YFYİ Entrepreneurship Program. He is a leader focused on creating impact at the intersection of social development, technology, and business.