Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation
Sabancı University is on a mission to rapidly turn academic research into practical solutions for global challenges.
From advanced composite materials and additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, to developments in nanotechnology and electrochemistry for clean energy, the university works hand in hand with industry to move ideas out of the lab and into the real world.
“We believe universities should not only produce knowledge, but also transform it into solutions that serve society, industry, and the environment,” says Prof Dr Yusuf Leblebici, President of Sabancı University.
Established in 1996 in Istanbul, Sabancı University channels pioneering research into practical applications through the dedicated work of world-leading researchers and state-of-the-art infrastructure, such as the Integrated Manufacturing Technologies Research and Application Center (SUIMC).
Established through a unique public-private partnership model, the SUIMC brings academia and industry together to develop advanced composites, additive manufacturing, digital twins, and smart production systems for sectors including aerospace, automotive, wind energy, and marine technologies.
Alongside manufacturing, the university’s Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM) focuses on clean energy solutions. Research here spans green hydrogen fuel cells, electrolyzers – devices that split water (H2O) into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity – and advanced battery systems.
Scientific excellence at Sabancı University drives Türkiye’s green transformation. Researchers advance pioneering work in green hydrogen, fuel cells, electrolyzers, and next-generation battery systems. They develop advanced materials and electrochemical technologies that push the performance limits of clean energy systems.
Research in electrochemistry, materials science and engineering, and nanotechnology enables high-performance catalysts, membranes, and electrodes — the technological backbone of the clean energy transition.
With a globally competitive research portfolio, the university plays a leading role in major national and international projects. As a core partner in Türkiye’s first Hydrogen Valley initiative, HYSouthMarmara, it helps build an integrated ecosystem linking renewable hydrogen production, storage, distribution, and industrial use. The project supports the shift from natural gas and grey hydrogen to green hydrogen in energy-intensive sectors.
By advancing frontier science, Sabancı University is reshaping the future energy architecture through science-led innovation.
Sabancı University’s research and education is aligned with SDG 9, to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation.
A major focus is decarbonizing transport through lightweight, reusable, and recyclable materials. Using a patented thermochemical process, researchers convert PET, polypropylene, mixed plastics, and end-of-life tyres into graphene and other 2D nanomaterials. These waste-derived carbons are then integrated into polymers used in automotive production, reducing component weight by at least 10%.
In aerospace, innovative composites developed at the university are replacing metals and thermoset plastics, delivering lighter structures and superior performance.
Sabancı University is among the top three higher education institutions in Türkiye in both total net EU funding secured (exceeding €38 million) and per capita net contribution under the Horizon programs.
