Research Mission
One of Abdullah Gül University’s (AGU) core missions is to promote interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research. As a young university striving to reflect the understanding that societal needs cannot be addressed from a single perspective, AGU set a goal in its 2018 and 2022 strategic plans to double its interdisciplinary collaborations—and successfully achieved this through its innovative practices. Building on the experience gained, AGU aims to accelerate interdisciplinary studies and develop new research models.
A key objective for AGU is to structure the necessary laboratory and research infrastructure in alignment with the requirements of a strong research tradition and to provide its researchers with top-tier facilities that enable high-quality work.
Through its research policies, AGU aims to foster a research culture grounded in universal values and innovation. This culture supports projects that contribute actively not only to solving global challenges but also to enhancing the social, cultural, and economic life of the local community in Kayseri.
Research at AGU
AGU leads a university model suited to the needs of the 21st century through its research culture, which is based on the Third Generation University concept—redefining education and research functions in terms of societal impact. As such, AGU is an integrated university model where both educational approaches and research efforts are focused on benefiting society, transforming scientific knowledge into technology and new understanding.
The AGU model is built on two key design principles that set an example for next-generation universities:
Integration of Global Responsibilities: AGU considers the 17 global goals defined by the United Nations as a fundamental perspective in shaping its education, research, and societal contribution missions. Thus, the outcomes of its research and projects contribute not only to local communities but also to global human and technological development.
Blended Research Fields: AGU establishes interdisciplinary fields that blend research, education, and social contribution. These areas involve not only researchers but also students and stakeholders, adopting a participatory and integrative approach. Unlike traditional labs, these fields also host university functions beyond research. In this way, AGU becomes a value-generating engine where individuals can pursue impactful projects that enhance their academic and professional passion.
AGU aims to serve as an institution where universal problems are discussed, knowledge is produced in relation to these issues, and solution models grounded in research are developed. To realize this vision, AGU prioritizes transdisciplinary approaches that bring together its academic disciplines around complex global challenges. Therefore, research at AGU goes beyond the conventional definition: it integrates the university’s core functions and brings together all stakeholders—including practitioners, industry, and the public—for knowledge generation.
Research Ecosystem
At the heart of AGU’s research ecosystem lies a culture where global challenges are discussed, relevant knowledge is generated, and evidence-based solutions are developed. Through a transdisciplinary approach, AGU brings together all stakeholders—researchers, theorists, practitioners, industry, and public interest representatives—around knowledge production activities.
Thanks to this ecosystem, AGU currently carries out research projects in collaboration with international and national partners such as the Global Solutions Initiative, Sustainable Development Solutions Network, Arçelik, Hasçelik Kablo, Aselsan, and Aspilsan. It also secures funding through prominent organizations like the EU Horizon 2020, TÜBİTAK, the British Council, and the OR-AN Development Agency.
As of 2021, many completed and ongoing projects have been conducted within this ecosystem. The outcomes of these projects have sparked the initiation of new ones, further enriching the ecosystem.
AGU's research ecosystem extends beyond laboratories, allowing researchers to independently engage in national and international projects or work through spin-off companies established in AGU Technopark. Institutional bodies such as the Model Factory, AGU Technology Transfer Office, AGU Technopark, and AGU Revolving Fund play a facilitative role by connecting researchers with internal and external partners. These structures are vital in providing the research infrastructure needed by diverse communities and sectors and in ensuring the sustainability of impact-oriented research.