The SUNGEL: Advanced Thin-Film Solar Technology project, carried out by the Istanbul Technical University (ITU) Energy Institute, was selected as a good practice example among the international research projects supported by the UK Science & Technology Network. The project team represented ITU at the panel held on 6 November in Istanbul as part of the ISPF UK–Turkey Showcase Event.

The event was organized by the UK Science & Technology Network and the British Embassy Ankara, presenting to the public the successful examples selected from 37 international joint research projects between Türkiye and the United Kingdom. The SUNGEL project was highlighted for its innovative approach in the fields of sustainable energy, thin-film–based photovoltaic structures, and advanced materials.

Prof. Dr. Nilgün Baydoğan, a faculty member of the ITU Energy Institute and the Turkish principal investigator of the project, took part in the panel. During the panel, project outputs and experiences were shared under the following headings:
• Development of thin-film–based photovoltaic structures,
• Integration with modular water treatment systems,
• International research mobility,
• Technology transfer, academia–industry collaborations, and societal impact.

Prof. Dr. Baydoğan emphasized the significance of the event for ITU through the following points:
• Strengthening ITU’s science diplomacy activities,
• Reinforcing ITU’s active role in Türkiye–United Kingdom research collaborations,
• Increasing the international visibility of ITU’s research laboratories, infrastructures, and project team.

Prof. Dr. Baydoğan also highlighted the value of scientific interaction carried out in collaboration with researchers from Kingston University—particularly with Prof. Andy Augousti—and expressed her gratitude to the entire project team. The SUNGEL project of the ITU Energy Institute was selected as a good practice example by the UK Science & Technology Network, and Prof. Dr. Nilgün Baydoğan presented the project outputs at the event.