CIGDEM CAGLAYAN | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Ms. CIGDEM CAGLAYAN | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

PhD Candidate at Seoul National University, South Korea

Cigdem Caglayan is an accomplished Aerospace Engineer and a PhD candidate at Seoul National University, specializing in cutting-edge research on dynamic combinational epoxy vitrimers, recyclable carbon fiber vitrimer composites, and self-healing mechano-luminescent (ML) coatings for structural health monitoring (SHM). Her work focuses on developing cost-effective solutions for detecting and visualizing stress distribution in structural components, advancing sustainability through recyclable composite materials. With a strong foundation in polymer science and composite technologies, her research journey spans innovative material design, advanced manufacturing techniques, and extensive collaboration with international institutions. Cigdem is highly skilled in project management, technical reporting, and material characterization, with several publications in high-impact journals. Her global academic contributions and passion for sustainability position her as a leader in the aerospace and materials research domains.

Professional Profile

Education

Cigdem is currently pursuing a PhD in Aerospace Engineering at Seoul National University, expected in February 2025. Her doctoral research focuses on self-healing epoxy vitrimers and ML coatings. She earned her MSc in Aerospace Engineering from Istanbul Technical University, where her thesis emphasized nano-reinforced polyurethane foams and polymer foam core sandwich composites. She graduated with a GPA of 4.00/4.30 in 2019. Her BSc in Aerospace Engineering, also from Istanbul Technical University, focused on the design and testing of advanced composites, graduating in 2016 with a GPA of 3.69/4.00. Her academic achievements have been supported by prestigious scholarships and her commitment to advancing composite technologies.

Professional Experience

Cigdem has extensive experience as a researcher, starting her career at Istanbul Technical University’s Aerospace Research Center (2016–2019), where she led projects on nano-reinforced polyurethane foams and polymer foam core sandwich composites. Currently, she is a researcher at Seoul National University, where she develops self-healing stress sensors and recyclable carbon fiber composites, contributing to advancements in structural health monitoring and sustainability. Cigdem has been instrumental in laboratory setup and operations, utilizing advanced equipment and techniques. Her teaching experience includes mentoring undergraduate students in subjects like composite materials and aerospace engineering, further showcasing her leadership and technical expertise.

Research Interests

Cigdem’s research interests focus on developing sustainable and innovative materials for aerospace and structural applications. Her work in self-healing mechano-luminescent (ML) coatings and recyclable epoxy vitrimer composites aims to revolutionize structural health monitoring (SHM) by enabling non-contact stress detection and visualization. She is passionate about composite manufacturing techniques, including vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) and hot pressing, with a keen focus on enhancing sustainability through recyclable materials. Her interests also extend to understanding material failure under various conditions, making her research pivotal for industries like aerospace and defense.

Research Skills

Cigdem is proficient in advanced composite manufacturing and characterization techniques, including VARTM, hot pressing, and ASTM-standard testing methods like flexural fatigue and impact analysis. Her expertise extends to characterization tools such as FTIR, NMR, and SEM, and she is skilled in data analysis using MATLAB and 3D CAD/CAM software like CATIA. Additionally, she excels in laboratory management, experimental design, and technical reporting, with strong soft skills in teamwork and communication. Cigdem’s ability to innovate and lead makes her a valuable contributor to complex research projects.

Awards and Honors

Cigdem has been recognized globally for her academic and research excellence. She is a recipient of the prestigious Global Korean Scholarship (2019–2023) and has been honored with the Korean Government Invitation Program award for top students. Her outstanding presentation at the International Conference on Active Materials and Soft Mechatronics in 2024 earned her an Excellent Presentation Award. As one of Turkey’s top students, she has also received multiple scholarships and participated in international exchange programs, highlighting her dedication and achievements in aerospace engineering.

Conclusion

Cigdem Caglayan is a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award due to her innovative research, extensive technical expertise, and global academic contributions. Her work in self-healing composites and recyclable materials directly addresses contemporary challenges in sustainability and advanced materials science, aligning with the award’s objectives. By broadening the application of her research and increasing leadership roles in professional communities, she can further enhance her academic and professional impact.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Reprocessable carbon fiber vitrimer composites: Reclamation and reformatting of carbon fibers for second-generation composite materials
    Authors: Sharma, H., Bender, M., Kim, G., Kumar, A., Rana, S.
    Journal: Journal of Applied Polymer Science
    Year: 2024
  2. Epoxy-Based Catalyst-Free Self-Healing Elastomers at Room Temperature Employing Aromatic Disulfide and Hydrogen Bonds
    Authors: Kim, G., Caglayan, C., Yun, G.J.
    Journal: ACS Omega
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 13
  3. CNT-Reinforced Self-Healable Epoxy Dynamic Networks Based on Disulfide Bond Exchange
    Authors: Caglayan, C., Kim, G., Yun, G.J.
    Journal: ACS Omega
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 5
  4. Impact response of shear thickening fluid filled polyurethane foam core sandwich composites
    Authors: Caglayan, C., Osken, I., Ataalp, A., Turkmen, H.S., Cebeci, H.
    Journal: Composite Structures
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 51
  5. The effect of CNT-reinforced polyurethane foam cores to flexural properties of sandwich composites
    Authors: Caglayan, C., Gurkan, I., Gungor, S., Cebeci, H.
    Journal: Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 53
  6. Flexural behaviours of nanophased rigid polyurethane foam core sandwich composites
    Authors: Çağlayan, Ç., Demir, E., Gürkan, İ., Cebeci, H.
    Conference: ICCM International Conferences on Composite Materials
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 1

 

 

 

Gültekin AKTAŞ | Civil Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Gültekin AKTAŞ | Civil Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr at Dicle University Department of Civil Engineering, Turkey.

Gultekin Aktas is a distinguished researcher in civil engineering, specializing in structural dynamics and concrete behavior. He holds a PhD in Civil Engineering from Dicle University and has made significant contributions through innovative research on topics such as fresh concrete behavior under vibration, prediction models using artificial neural networks, and mold design for precast concrete elements. Aktas’s work is published in reputable journals like Structural Engineering and Mechanics and KSCE Journal of Civil Engineering, showcasing his technical expertise and diverse methodologies. His research employs advanced computational techniques and experimental validations, reflecting a high level of proficiency. Despite his robust contributions, expanding his focus to include interdisciplinary approaches and increasing collaborative efforts could further enhance his impact. Overall, Aktas’s innovative research and technical skills make him a notable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award.

Profile

Education

Gultekin Aktas is a distinguished academic with extensive expertise in civil engineering. He completed his PhD at Dicle University, Diyarbakir, Turkey, where he has been associated with the Engineering Faculty since 1995. His educational background in civil engineering has provided him with a solid foundation in structural analysis, computational methods, and practical applications. During his doctoral studies, Aktas focused on advanced topics in structural dynamics and computational modeling, which have significantly influenced his subsequent research. His work integrates theoretical insights with practical challenges, reflecting his deep understanding of both fundamental concepts and real-world engineering issues. Aktas’s ongoing affiliation with Dicle University highlights his commitment to academic excellence and his role in advancing civil engineering knowledge through both teaching and research.

Professional Experience

Dr. Gultekin Aktas is a distinguished academic in civil engineering, holding a position at the Engineering Faculty of Dicle University in Diyarbakir, Turkey, since 1995. His extensive professional experience encompasses a broad range of research and teaching roles. Aktas has focused on innovative areas such as the behavior of fresh concrete under vibration, finite grid solutions for circular plates, and computer-aided design algorithms for precast concrete elements. His research has been published in leading journals, including Structural Engineering and Mechanics and KSCE Journal of Civil Engineering. Aktas’s expertise lies in employing advanced computational methods and theoretical models to address complex engineering problems, reflecting his commitment to both practical and theoretical advancements in structural engineering. His contributions to the field are marked by a strong emphasis on experimental validation and computational analysis, highlighting his significant role in advancing civil engineering research and education.

Research Skills

Gultekin Aktas possesses a diverse set of research skills that underline his expertise in civil engineering. His proficiency in utilizing advanced computational techniques is evident from his work with mass-spring models, artificial neural networks, and finite grid solutions, which he employs to analyze and predict the behavior of structural elements under various conditions. Aktas demonstrates strong technical abilities in developing and validating algorithms for concrete element design and structural dynamic analysis. His research often involves a blend of theoretical modeling and experimental validation, showcasing his capacity to integrate different methodologies to address complex engineering problems. Additionally, his capability to produce high-quality, peer-reviewed publications reflects his thorough understanding of structural engineering principles and computational methods. Aktas’s adeptness at applying both theoretical and practical approaches underscores his comprehensive skill set and contributes significantly to advancements in civil engineering research.

Award and Recognition

Gultekin Aktas has earned notable recognition for his contributions to civil engineering, particularly in the fields of structural dynamics and concrete behavior. His innovative research has been published in leading journals such as Structural Engineering and Mechanics and KSCE Journal of Civil Engineering, underscoring his impact on the field. Aktas’s work, including his studies on the behavior of fresh concrete under vibration and finite grid solutions for circular plates, has significantly advanced understanding and practical applications in structural engineering. Although specific awards or formal recognitions are not listed, his high-quality publications and influential research demonstrate a strong reputation among peers. Aktas’s contributions reflect his dedication to advancing engineering knowledge and solving complex problems, solidifying his standing as a respected researcher in his domain.

Conclusion

Gultekin Aktas is a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His diverse and innovative research contributions to civil engineering, coupled with his technical proficiency and publication record, demonstrate his significant impact in his field. While there are opportunities to broaden his research focus and enhance his collaborative efforts, Aktas’s accomplishments highlight his potential as a leading researcher. His continuous engagement in cutting-edge research and publication makes him a deserving candidate for this prestigious award.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Examination of Precast Concrete Movement Subjected to Vibration Employing Mass-Spring Model with Two Convective Masses
    • Authors: Aktas, G.
    • Journal: Shock and Vibration
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0
  2. Displacement prediction of precast concrete under vibration using artificial neural networks
    • Authors: Aktas, G., Ozerdem, M.S.
    • Journal: Structural Engineering and Mechanics
    • Year: 2020
    • Volume: 74(4), pp. 559–565
    • Citations: 3
  3. Prediction of behavior of fresh concrete exposed to vibration using artificial neural networks and regression model
    • Authors: Aktas, G., Ozerdem, M.S.
    • Journal: Structural Engineering and Mechanics
    • Year: 2016
    • Volume: 60(4), pp. 655–665
    • Citations: 11
  4. Investigation of fresh concrete behavior under vibration using mass-spring model
    • Authors: Aktas, G.
    • Journal: Structural Engineering and Mechanics
    • Year: 2016
    • Volume: 57(3), pp. 425–439
    • Citations: 4
  5. A finite grid solution for circular plates on elastic foundations
    • Authors: Karaşin, H., Gülkan, P., Aktas, G.
    • Journal: KSCE Journal of Civil Engineering
    • Year: 2015
    • Volume: 19(4), pp. 1157–1163
    • Citations: 9
  6. Experimental confirmation for the validity of Ritz method in structural dynamic analysis
    • Authors: Aktas, G., Karasin, A.
    • Journal: Journal of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics (Poland)
    • Year: 2014
    • Volume: 52(4), pp. 981–993
    • Citations: 4
  7. Computer-aided mold design algorithm for precast concrete elements
    • Authors: Aktas, G., Tanrikulu, A.K., Baran, T.
    • Journal: ACI Materials Journal
    • Year: 2014
    • Volume: 111(1), pp. 77–87
    • Citations: 7