Meet Gümüşhane University’s Rector: Prof. Dr. Oktay Yildiz
Prof. Dr. Oktay Yıldız Appointed Rector of Gümüşhane University
Prof. Dr. Oktay Yıldız has been officially appointed as the rector of Gümüşhane University, following a “Presidential Appointment Decree” published in the Official Gazette on April 10, 2025, under the auspices of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
Early Life and Education
Born in Gümüşhane in 1981, Prof. Dr. Yıldız pursued his education in Food Engineering at Malatya İnönü University, where he graduated between 1998 and 2002. He furthered his studies by obtaining a master’s degree in the same field from 2002 to 2005. Following his graduation, he gained practical experience working as an engineer, production manager, and managerial roles at Gümüşsu A.Ş., a local firm in Gümüşhane.
Academic Career
Prof. Dr. Yıldız commenced his academic career at Giresun University, specifically at the Şebinkarahisar Vocational School, from 2005 to 2011. During this time, he successfully completed his doctoral studies in Chemical and Biochemistry at the Institute of Science and Technology at Karadeniz Technical University from 2007 to 2011.
From 2011 to 2013, he served at the Maçka Vocational School of Karadeniz Technical University. Since 2020, he has progressed through the ranks, achieving titles of Associate Professor and later Professor at the Department of Basic Pharmacy Sciences at Karadeniz Technical University. Additionally, he holds a degree in Public Administration from Anadolu University.
Contributions to Technology and Industry
Prof. Dr. Yıldız has played a significant role in establishing the Technology Transfer Office (TTO) at Karadeniz Technical University since 2012. He has been instrumental in fostering university-industry collaborations, greatly aiding small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in R&D, innovation, and project funding.
Throughout his academic career, he has been awarded 19 patents and utility model applications. His contributions extend to various governmental commissions and boards, including an active role in the Strategic Plan Preparation Commission within the Presidency’s Strategy and Budget Office. He has also served as an arbitrator on European Union projects, contributing to numerous initiatives within the project ecosystem.
Community Engagement
Beyond academia, Prof. Dr. Yıldız is actively involved in civil society. He is one of the founding members of the Gümüşhaneli Engineers Platform and a member of the Trabzon Branch of the Gümüşhane Industry and Business People Association (GüliAD). Furthermore, he is a founding member of the Şiran Education and Development Foundation.
Personal Life
Prof. Dr. Oktay Yıldız is married and is a proud father of two daughters. His appointment as rector signifies a commitment to advancing education and improving community engagement at Gümüşhane University.
