Study UK Alumni Awards – Science and Sustainability Award to Our Faculty Member

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Özgür Atalay, a faculty member of ITU Department of Textile Engineering, has been honored with the Science and Sustainability Award at the UK Alumni Awards 2025 for his pioneering work promoting sustainable change and scientific innovation.

Istanbul Technical University (ITU) academics continue to draw attention in the international scientific community with their groundbreaking research and the awards they receive.

Having completed his master's and doctoral studies at the University of Manchester, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Özgür Atalay won the Study UK Alumni Awards – Science and Sustainability Award, selected as one of the three finalists determined by the British Council Türkiye, for his leading work in fostering sustainable change and scientific innovation.

The award ceremony took place on March 20, 2025, at the British Consulate General, in partnership with British Council Türkiye and the Consulate General of the United Kingdom.

We congratulate our faculty member and wish him continued success.

The British Council Türkiye website highlighted the following details about Associate Professor Dr. Özgür Atalay and the research that played a crucial role in earning him the award:

"Associate Professor Dr. Özgür Atalay is one of the leading experts in the field of smart textiles and is renowned for his pioneering work on textile-based wearable electronics and soft robotics. With innovative projects such as the knitted robotic glove designed for individuals with disabilities, he has been awarded numerous honors, including the prestigious ERC Grant. At Istanbul Technical University, he is the co-founder of a state-of-the-art laboratory dedicated to soft robotics and wearable technology. Furthermore, he leads several large EU-funded projects that strengthen collaborations with esteemed institutions across Europe.

Özgür Atalay has gained significant experience working in an interdisciplinary environment focused on textile sensor integration. The university's collaborative and international atmosphere has broadened his research perspective. This experience not only enhanced his technical skills but also deepened his passion for innovation in the field of wearable electronics.  

He is committed to advancing fundamental science both in his own country and across Europe and aims to improve people's lives through his research."

About the Study UK Alumni Awards

The Study UK Alumni Awards aim to recognize the outstanding achievements of international UK alumni from around the world. The awards highlight the impact made by graduates of UK higher education institutions in their chosen fields and how their education in the UK has inspired this success.

These awards honor international leaders who use their UK education to make significant contributions to their communities, industries, and countries. The award categories include Business and Innovation, Culture and Creativity, Science and Sustainability, and Social Action.

Award winners have the opportunity to enhance their international recognition, expand their professional networks, and advance their careers.