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"Horizon Europe Info Day" Begins in Collaboration Between KTU and TÜBİTAK

New Opportunities and Strategic Calls for Accessing EU Funds Discussed 

Hosted by Karadeniz Technical University (KTU) and organized in collaboration with TÜBİTAK and the KTU Technology Transfer Office (TTM), the "Horizon Europe Day" event has officially started. The event began with an opening session at the Nazım Terzioğlu Hall of the Faculty of Science. It features information sharing about the European Union’s €95.5 billion research and innovation program, Horizon Europe, alongside project writing trainings and discussions on collaboration calls. 

The opening was attended by KTU Rector Prof. Dr. Hamdullah Çuvalcı, Vice Rectors Prof. Dr. Ali Temiz and Prof. Dr. Ömer Faruk Ursavaş, TÜBİTAK experts, academics, and representatives from the private sector. 

Rector’s Call for Action: Focus on EU Projects 

Rector Prof. Dr. Hamdullah Çuvalcı stressed that the university's performance in EU-funded projects is currently below expectations. He pointed out the gap between foundation and public universities in terms of project success and underlined the need for improvement. He also highlighted the growing importance of EU projects in academic evaluations and stated that meeting specific criteria such as project involvement, international experience, and language proficiency will now be essential for academic appointments and promotions. 

TTO Director Emrah Ayvaz: Positive Progress Noted 

Lect. Emrah Ayvaz, Director of the Technology Transfer Office, stated that the center provides comprehensive support to researchers throughout the project lifecycle. He reported a steady increase in project applications and approvals at the university, which he sees as a clear indicator of progress. He added that this TÜBİTAK-supported, three-day event is a strategic step to further enhance KTU’s research output. 

Tarık Şahin from TÜBİTAK: Horizon Europe in Focus 

TÜBİTAK expert Tarık Şahin described Horizon Europe as the largest civilian R&D and innovation support program in the world. He explained that the program offers funding for scientific research, technological advancement, and societal challenges, while promoting university-industry collaboration and aiming to boost Europe’s innovation and competitiveness. 

Info Sessions and Hands-On Project Training 

On the first day, TÜBİTAK experts presented the main themes of Horizon Europe, types of calls, and application mechanisms. Participants gained detailed insights into strategic steps for accessing EU funds and attended targeted sessions on specific clusters and focus areas. 

The event will continue with in-person project writing training, offering a dynamic approach to project development. Throughout the three-day program, participants will also have the opportunity to receive one-on-one support through special sessions.


16 April 2025