Ilker Murat Koç | Metallurgical Engineering Design | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Ilker Murat Koç | Metallurgical Engineering Design | Best Researcher Award

Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering | Turkey

Prof. Dr. İlker Murat Koç is a senior mechanical engineering academic with extensive experience in tribology, system dynamics, control, mechatronics and high-pressure flow systems has contributed significantly to research, education and technological development. Holding a PhD in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on vibration absorption using energy sinks, preceded by graduate and undergraduate degrees in machine theory and mechanical engineering, this researcher has built a strong international academic profile through appointments at multiple globally recognized universities. Their scholarly output includes more than twenty-four peer-reviewed journal articles, numerous conference papers and eight patents, supported by an h-index of 8, 306 citations, and 29 documentations cross mechanical systems, sensing technologies and propulsion. Contributions span vibration control, tactile sensing, piezoelectric energy harvesting, hydraulic and pneumatic proportional systems, multi-axis force/moment sensing, autonomous mechanisms and cold gas propulsion concepts for soft-landing missions. This researcher has led major industry-driven projects in defense, automotive and manufacturing sectors and has established advanced laboratories for propulsion, sensing and additive manufacturing. Their editorial roles, technical committee memberships and leadership in national innovation programs reflect long-standing impact. Continuing to bridge fundamental mechanics with applied engineering, their work drives forward advancements in tribology, mechatronics and aerospace-related technologies.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar | Orcid

Featured Publications

Koç, İ. M. (2023). Nonlinear energy sink–based vibration absorption for lightweight mechanical structures. Journal of Vibration and Control, 29(4), 512–528.

Koç, İ. M., & Yılmaz, A. (2022). Design and characterization of a high-pressure motorized pneumatic needle valve for precision flow control. Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing, 168, 108743.

Koç, İ. M., Demir, H., & Arslan, M. (2021). Development of a multi-axis force and moment sensing system for robotic applications. IEEE/ASME Transactions on Mechatronics, 26(5), 2450–2462.

Koç, İ. M. (2020). Cold gas propulsion system modeling and experimental validation for soft-landing demonstrators. Acta Astronautica, 176, 334–345.

Koç, İ. M., & Çelik, O. (2019). Tribological performance evaluation of coated surfaces under high-speed sliding conditions. Tribology International, 137, 337–348.

Fırat Mehmet Günkan | Metallurgical Engineering Design | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Fırat Mehmet Günkan | Metallurgical Engineering Design | Best Researcher Award

Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering | Turkey

Fırat Mehmet Günkan is a mechanical engineering academic specializing in tribology, high-pressure flow control and cold gas propulsion, contributing extensively to both research and education in the field. With a PhD focused on the design and validation of a cold thrust system for space applications, supported by an MSc in Mechanical Design and dual bachelor’s degrees in engineering and technical design, he has built a strong multidisciplinary foundation. Over more than a decade of academic experience, his teaching portfolio has included engineering drawing, CAD/CAM and design-oriented courses, complemented by active involvement in research projects on motorized pneumatic needle valves, dynamic torque sensors, six-axis load cells and advanced combustion engine mechanisms. His scholarly output includes 1 peer-reviewed journal articles, international conference papers and a published patent, reflecting continuous engagement in applied mechanical research. His research interests span tribology, supersonic flow, cold gas thrusters, vertical-landing demonstrators, proportional valve design and precision measurement systems. With regular contributions to international tribology forums and national aerospace initiatives, he continues to advance impactful developments in mechanical design, experimentation and propulsion technologies.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar | Orcid

Featured Publications

Günkan, F. M., Sümer, B., & Koç, İ. M. (2025). Reducing drive torque in needle valves through tip material selection with a tribological approach. Tribology International, 209.

Günkan, F. M., Doğru, B., Baykara, C., Kutlar, O. A., & Arslan, H. (2013). Design and dynamic analysis of a novel valve control mechanism. Machines Technologies Materials, 5, 12–15.

Günkan, F. M., Sümer, B., & Koç, İ. M. (2025). Lowering rotational friction of a servo needle valve via driving with smart control strategies. Proceedings of the 50th Leeds-Lyon Symposium on Tribology.

Aşkın, G. Ş., Gökçeli, S., Sümer, B., Ergün, O., Koç, İ. M., & Günkan, F. M. (2025). Frictional behaviour and lubricant effects on polymer-based thin-film electrode arrays for cochlear implants. Proceedings of the 50th Leeds-Lyon Symposium on Tribology.

Üngör, M., Baykara, C., Kutlar, O. A., Günkan, F. M., & Cihan, Ö. (2018). Adaptation of a cycle-skipping strategy to a Wankel engine. Proceedings of the 9th Automotive Technologies Congress.