About Me
About Me
I am Mirkan Emir Sancak, a dedicated environmental engineer and researcher with a strong academic and professional background in sustainability, ecological preservation, and the application of advanced technologies for environmental monitoring and improvement. I have consistently focused my efforts on understanding and addressing environmental challenges through innovative and multidisciplinary approaches.
My academic journey and professional experiences have provided me with expertise in various fields, including non-thermal plasma processes, microalgae biotechnology, and artificial intelligence (AI) applications in environmental science. These areas have allowed me to explore innovative solutions for pressing environmental issues, such as sustainable agriculture, pollutant mitigation, and real-time ecosystem monitoring.
Scientific Background and Vision
Throughout my career, I have conducted cutting-edge research, including integrating catalytic atmospheric plasma systems into sustainable fertilizer production and employing AI-driven computer vision techniques for chemical analysis and environmental monitoring. My contributions include co-authoring scientific papers and participating in research projects that bridge the gap between technology and environmental science.
I firmly believe in the importance of balancing technological progress with ecological preservation. My commitment to sustainability has been a driving force behind my research endeavors, whether investigating plasma-assisted nitrogen fixation as a sustainable alternative to the Haber-Bosch process or exploring microalgae's potential for carbon sequestration and soil enrichment.
Passion for Ornithology
Beyond my professional and academic pursuits, I am deeply passionate about ornithology. This interest stems from my profound respect for the intricate interconnections within ecosystems and the critical role that bird species play in maintaining ecological balance. Birds are not just fascinating creatures but also vital indicators of environmental health, offering valuable insights into the state of our natural world.
My ornithological activities, which include photographing and documenting bird species around Gebze Technical University, are an extension of my commitment to environmental awareness. By observing and sharing these species' unique behaviors, habitats, and ecological roles, I aim to foster a greater appreciation for biodiversity and inspire action toward conservation.
Final Thoughts
As both a researcher and a nature enthusiast, I view ornithology not just as a hobby but as a vital bridge between science and ecological advocacy. Through this website, I aim to celebrate the beauty and diversity of bird species while encouraging others to recognize and preserve the environment we all share.
Publications
· Sancak, M. E. (2024). Review of: “Groundwater Potential Zone Assessment using Remote sensing, Geographical Information System (GIS), and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) Techniques in Fogera Woreda, South Gondar Zone, Ethiopia.” Qeios. https://doi.org/10.32388/85idm6
· Sancak, M. E., & Keriş Şen, Ü. D. (2024). Reusability of the potassium iodide solution for O3 determination without degradation (4th ed.). 4th International Cankaya Scientific Studies Congress. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/384356445_Reusability_of_the_Potassium_Iodide_Solution_for_O3_Determination_Without_Degradation
· Sancak et al. (2025). Image Processing Based Machine Learning for Determination of Color Binaries: Case of Iodine
· Sancak, M. E., Keriş Şen, Ü. D. (2024). Detecting microdischarge temperature points in nano-scale on non-thermal plasma systems using IR thermal camera
Research Interests
Non-Thermal Plasma Processes
· Investigating the interaction mechanisms of non-thermal plasmas with biological and chemical systems, focusing on reactive species generation, electron-impact processes, and surface modification under controlled atmospheric conditions.
· Developing plasma-assisted nitrogen fixation methods as an advanced alternative to the Haber-Bosch process, aiming at efficient, sustainable fertilizer production with reduced environmental impact.
· Exploring plasma-induced chemical synthesis pathways, including the formation of reactive intermediates and their role in producing value-added chemicals under ambient and energy-efficient conditions.
Microalgae Biotechnology
· Examining the interplay between plasma-driven fertilizer applications and microalgae cultivation to enhance nutrient uptake efficiency and biomass yield, with a focus on commercial fertilizer alternatives.
· Investigating the application of microalgae in agroecology, particularly in sustainable agriculture practices, carbon sequestration, and soil enrichment.
· Gaining expertise in biochemical extraction processes, including the isolation and characterization of bioactive compounds from microalgal biomass for agricultural and industrial applications.
Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Computer Vision Applications in Environmental Science
· Employing advanced machine learning algorithms for the predictive modeling and optimization of environmental systems, focusing on sustainable resource management and pollutant mitigation.
· Leveraging computer vision techniques for real-time environmental monitoring, such as detecting pollutants, assessing plant growth dynamics, and automating ecosystem health evaluations.
· Integrating AI and machine learning-driven approaches to chemical analysis, enabling the rapid identification and quantification of chemical species in complex environmental matrices.
