In January 2023, a five-year collaboration protocol was signed between Gebze Technical University and TUBITAK MAM regarding the establishment of the "Research Center for Smart Applications in Food Security." The protocol, brought to life through the efforts and coordination of Asst. Prof. Umit Baris Kutman, Vice Director of the Institute of Biotechnology at GTU, and Dr. Hayrettin Ozer from MAM, covers the joint design of the "Research Center for Smart Applications in Food Security," planned to be established at MAM's Gebze campus. It also includes the execution of joint projects in the relevant fields at this center and the existing research infrastructures of the institutions, as well as the development of qualified researchers needed by our country through these collaborative efforts.
After nearly two years since the signing of the protocol, the plans to establish the research center, which will focus on controlled environment agriculture, soilless farming, and vertical farming, have finally moved forward. The center will be funded by the Turkish Presidency’s Strategy and Budget Department. It is planned to serve both for academic research in national and international projects related to indoor farming and smart agriculture, as well as for addressing the R&D needs of the private sector within university-industry-public collaborations. The construction and installation of the center are expected to be completed and opened for use in 2025.