International honor for an IUE professor

Prof. Dr. Fazilet Vardar, the Research Collaboration and Innovation Coordinator at Izmir University of Economics (IUE), has been recognized internationally for her successful efforts in supporting knowledge and technology transfer. The Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM), a U.S.-based organization with more than 3 thousand members worldwide, honored Prof. Dr. Vardar with the “2025 Volunteer Service Award” after a thorough and detailed evaluation.

MADE A DIFFERENCE WITH HER SUCCESS

Since 2015, Prof. Dr. Vardar has been an active member of the AUTM International Strategy Committee, participating in numerous projects. For the past 3 years, she has also served as the ‘Middle East-North Africa’ regional representative. Through her work in organizing workshops with broad participation from industry representatives and students, fostering collaborations, and ensuring that new technologies reach wider audiences, Prof. Dr. Vardar has made a significant impact in her field. Representing Turkey in the international arena in the best possible way, Prof. Dr. Vardar has been rewarded for her efforts with this prestigious award.

BUILDING THE NECESSARY ECOSYSTEM

Providing insight into the Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM), which has a global mission of supporting knowledge and technology transfer, Prof. Dr. Vardar said, “AUTM is a non-governmental organization in the United States specializing in technology transfer. Since the 1970s, it has been supporting university-industry collaborations by promoting best practices and striving to create socio-economic value from research outcomes. For the past 10 years, I have been involved as a member of the AUTM International Strategy Committee. In 2021, I was part of the Emerging Nations Work Group, and since 2022, I have been serving as the regional representative for the ‘Middle East-North Africa’ region. Through my participation in 4 annual meetings, I share updates on the development of the technology transfer ecosystem in our country and region.”

Expressing her great happiness and pride in receiving the award, Prof. Dr. Vardar emphasized her determination to continue her work with the same dedication in the coming period.