Within the framework of international science diplomacy, Atatürk University continues to fortify its academic partnerships on a global scale.

 Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu, the Rector of Atatürk University, held meetings with three distinguished academics who are highly regarded in the international community for their scientific research and management expertise as part of the academic visit program to the United States.

 In the meetings with Prof. Dr. Joerg Lahann from the University of Michigan, Prof. Dr. Paul Bogdan from the University of Southern California, and Prof. Dr. Martin Thuo from North Carolina State University, concrete topics were addressed with the intention of enhancing collaboration among institutions in the field of higher education.

 There was a discussion regarding academic mobility, international projects, and common scientific objectives.

 During the meetings, strategic issues were addressed, including the establishment of joint laboratories and centers, the sharing of international scholarships and funding resources, the establishment of interdisciplinary collaborations, the sharing of international scholarships and funding resources, and the enhancement of the quality and impact of scientific production through joint research projects.

 One of the most noteworthy features of the meetings was that the interaction between universities was not restricted to student and academic mobility, but also concentrated on more profound structural areas, including joint technology development, knowledge transfer, and collaborative publication policies. This context revealed the multifaceted areas of collaboration between Atatürk University and the research centers and innovation initiatives led by the academics interviewed.

 Rector Hacımüftüoğlu: "We are Combining Our Scientific Power with Global Stakeholders."

 Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu, the Rector of Atatürk University, noted that these partnerships with international scientific organizations also contribute to Turkey's higher education vision. He stated, "At Atatürk University, we are committed to the development of science that transcends national boundaries." In terms of institutionalizing scientific partnerships, supporting our research projects with international funds, and training our young researchers in global academic environments, these contacts we have established with leading universities in the USA are of great significance. During these meetings, we not only deliberated on potential collaborations but also provided a comprehensive explanation of the scientific vision, potential, and areas that are open to collaboration at Atatürk University.

 Prof. Dr. Hacımüftüoğlu also underscored the importance of integrating the university's expanding scientific infrastructure and research capacity with global academic networks in order to establish a more robust academic identity in the future.

 Internationalization in Science: A Component of the Global Academic Vision

 Atatürk University's strategic contacts are not restricted to bilateral collaborations; they are also assessed as part of a long-term vision that seeks to integrate into the global circulation of scientific production. It is anticipated that collaborative initiatives will be initiated, particularly in critical research domains such as artificial intelligence, health technologies, material science, and complex systems.

 It is anticipated that the plans implemented within this scope will be substantiated by tangible academic results in the near future and will be further developed through participation in international research consortiums, collaborative publications, new generation education programs, and mutual scientist assignments.

 Corporate Communications Directorate – May 8, 2025