Featured Research Project
Yıldız Technical University continues to strengthen its research and innovation ecosystem through scientific research, patented technological developments, and international academic engagement. Researchers at the Health Biotechnology Excellence Joint Application and Research Center (SABİOTEK), established through a partnership between Yıldız Technical University, Marmara University, and Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, have developed a 3D-printed microneedle patch system designed to deliver therapeutic agents directly to the tumor site for the treatment of melanoma, one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer. The invention received a Gold Medal at EUROINVENT 2026 and the WIIPA Special Award.
The project, led by Prof. Dr. Cem Bülent Üstündağ at Yıldız Technical University, in collaboration with researchers from Marmara University and Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, is entitled “3D-Printed Microneedle Patch for the Treatment of Melanoma via Synergistic Chemotherapy and Photothermal Therapy,” focuses on a three-dimensional printed microneedle platform for localized drug delivery. The hydrogel-based microneedles integrate chemotherapy and photothermal therapy within a single platform, with the aim of enabling controlled delivery of therapeutic agents to the target area, increasing treatment effectiveness, and reducing systemic side effects. The developed system is designed to enable the direct delivery of anticancer drugs to the tumor site without requiring surgical intervention, while also providing advantages in terms of patient comfort.
Patents & Technology Transfer
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ali Can Zaman of Yıldız Technical University’s Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering and his research team have developed an electroactive hybrid polymer that could contribute to the development of next-generation battery technologies with longer service life and faster charging capabilities. Registered by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office, the invention also has potential applications in carbon capture and water purification.
As part of the study, the research team developed a novel hybrid polymer by reacting acetone with elemental sulfur through an original polymerization method. The developed material retains the energy storage capacity of sulfur while also incorporating the advantages provided by organic compounds. In this way, the researchers introduced a new class of material that could contribute to the development of long-lasting, fast-charging, and high-performance battery technologies.
International Events & Conferences
The EXPO 3D Istanbul Fair and the 5th International 3D Printing & Additive Manufacturing Congress, organized with the academic support of Yıldız Technical University, will be held on 17–19 September 2026 at the Istanbul Exhibition Centre (İFM). Under the theme “Next-Gen 3D Printing Revolution,” the congress will bring together researchers, industry professionals, and technology leaders to facilitate international knowledge exchange and strengthen interaction between academia and industry.
The scientific programme will address recent developments in 3D printing and additive manufacturing technologies, including 3D and 4D printing technologies, layer-by-layer manufacturing, metal and nano printing, nano 3D printing, tissue engineering, DLP technologies, construction industry applications, and polymer and laser systems. The programme will comprise oral and poster presentations, workshops and training sessions, and networking activities, providing opportunities for the presentation of research and technical findings, international visibility of academic work, practical technical engagement, and interaction among researchers and industry professionals.
