Industry Leaders and Academia Meet at the 6th Materials Days

May 7, 2026 - GTU Office of Press and Public Relations
 

— The “6th Materials Days,” organized to strengthen university–industry collaboration, brought together leading companies from the industry at Gebze Technical University.

— Global and national industry leaders such as NASA, ASELSAN, and TOFAŞ shared insights into the future of materials science.

— Associate Professor Neslihan Tamsü-Selli emphasized the central and indispensable role of materials science in advanced technologies.

— Throughout the two-day event, students had the opportunity to learn about internship and career opportunities directly from industry professionals.

— The Materials Science Society presented plaques to sector representatives in recognition of their contributions to the event.

Materials Science: At the Center of Technology and Science

The Congress and Cultural Center of Gebze Technical University hosted the “6th Materials Days” event organized by the Materials Science Society. Held on 5–6 May 2026, the summit aimed to strengthen university–industry collaboration and brought together academics, students, and leading industry representatives.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Associate Professor Neslihan Tamsü-Selli, Deputy Head of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, highlighted the strategic importance of the discipline. She stated that materials science is not merely a supporting field, but rather a discipline at the core of innovations ranging from smartphones and aircraft wings to artificial intelligence-supported systems and controlled drug delivery technologies. Emphasizing the growing significance of interdisciplinary studies in shaping future projects, Tamsü-Selli noted that the department offers education at international standards with its highly qualified academic staff of 40 members and 30 modern laboratories.

Career Guidance and Professional Vision

Providing recommendations for students’ career journeys, Neslihan Tamsü-Selli underlined the importance of time management, professional etiquette, and building strong communication networks, while encouraging students to make the most of their university years through curiosity and productivity. Şimal Tahmaz, President of the GTU Materials Science Society, stated that the main objective of the event was to strengthen university–industry collaboration by bringing together leading companies and expert professionals with students. She added that the organization offered participants the opportunity to closely explore different sectors while shedding light on current developments in the field of materials science. The exhibition stands and company presentations organized throughout the event also enabled students to gain direct insight into professional working life.

From Space Exploration to the Defense Industry

The event continued for two days at the Red Hall (Hall 3) of the GTU Congress Center, where experts from some of the world’s and Türkiye’s most respected institutions shared their experiences and expertise. On the first day, representatives from TOFAŞ, Tüpraş, Simultura, and ASELSAN delivered technical presentations. On the second day, participants from NASA, Çolakoğlu Metallurgy, Şişecam, and the Chamber of Metallurgical and Materials Engineers of TMMOB met with attendees. The program was further enriched by the participation of sector leaders such as Polisan and GÜRİŞ PARSAN, offering students a broader and visionary perspective on the future of the industry.

Plaque Ceremony and Successful Closing

Throughout the event, students had the opportunity to evaluate internship and career opportunities while establishing professional networks with sector representatives. At the end of the event, the GTU Materials Science Society presented plaques to academics, industry representatives, and sponsor companies in appreciation of their contributions to the event. The event program continued with highly anticipated prize draws organized for participating students, further enhancing the dynamic atmosphere of the summit. Successfully completed with strong participation and engagement, the 6th Materials Days continues to move forward as one of the most influential and impactful events in its field.