Research at IUE
Introduction to IUE Research Ecosystem
In an era where knowledge is the primary currency of progress, İzmir University of Economics (IUE) stands as a beacon of innovation and academic excellence. Guided by our philosophy “With Science, We Lead,” research at IUE is not merely an academic exercise conducted within the confines of a library; it is a dynamic, multi-dimensional ecosystem designed to bridge the gap between theoretical inquiry and real-world application. We are committed to solving the complex challenges of the 21st century through a community where curiosity meets capability.
Established in 2001 as the first foundation university in the Aegean Region of Türkiye, IUE has built a multidisciplinary powerhouse comprising 8 faculties, 2 schools, 3 vocational schools and a Graduate School. Our research landscape fosters collaboration across engineering, health sciences, business and the creative arts, encouraging experts to think beyond departmental silos. Leveraging our strategic location in İzmir, we seamlessly integrate with the industrial world, transforming abstract ideas into tangible assets that contribute to regional and global economic growth.
What sets the IUE ecosystem apart is its Research-Oriented Learning model. Unlike traditional institutions, we actively involve undergraduate and graduate students in significant projects from day one. IUE consistently ranks as one of Turkey’s top foundation universities for TÜBİTAK 2209 student research projects, ensuring our graduates emerge as critical thinkers and innovators ready to lead their industries.
Research Infrastructure & Ecosystem Highlights
- 12 Specialized Research Centers operating across disciplinary and interdisciplinary fields.
- 14 Advanced Research Laboratories located in the Technology Engineering and Science Laboratory (TESLA) Building (Biotech, Nanotech, Robotics, Industry 4.0, Aerospace, etc.).
- Creative Studios: MakerLab, Media Lab, Digital Media and Communication Studios supporting innovation.
- Technical Assets: Over 170 high-value research and computing assets enabling experimental and computational research.
- İzmir Bilimpark Science and Technology Hub: A Ministry-approved Technology Development Zone (Technopark) fostering R&D collaborations between the university and the business world.
- İzmir Teknotest Labs: Our TS EN ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory offering Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC), Electrical Safety (LVD) and IP (Water/Dust Protection) testing. İzmir Teknotest Labs provides certified testing and documentation services to national and international industries, extending well beyond internal academic research.
- Dedicated TTO Team: The Project Development and Technology Transfer Office operates with a dedicated team of eight qualified professionals who play a strategic role across the university research and innovation ecosystem. The team supports the acquisition of competitive research funding, strengthens structured collaboration with industry, manages intellectual property and technology commercialization processes, and contributes to the advancement of entrepreneurship in line with the university’s long-term research and innovation strategy.
Key Highlights & Research Performance Indicators (2018–2025)
Core Services & Support Mechanisms in IUE Research Ecosystem
Research & Project Development
- Identification of suitable funding calls
- Project proposal development support
- Consortium building and stakeholder engagement
Project Management
- Post-award administrative support
- Financial tracking and reporting
- Contract and compliance management
Industry Collaborations
- University-industry partnership models
- Contract research and consultancy
- Sectoral networking and matchmaking
Intellectual Property (IP) Management
- IP strategy and evaluation
- Patent and trademark filing support
- Legal and technical advisory services
Technology Transfer & Commercialisation
- Industry matchmaking and licensing support
- Technology valuation and market analysis
- Commercialisation strategy planning
Entrepreneurship Enablement
- Start-up formation guidance
- Business model development support
- Linkages with investors and accelerators
