Associate Professor at Yildiz Technical University, Turkey
Assoc. Prof. Mehmet Çakır is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of marine engineering, currently serving as an Associate Professor at Yildiz Technical University’s Department of Marine Engineering. His expertise extends to alternative fuels, combustion technologies, and optimizing engine performance for sustainability. Dr. Çakır’s extensive research in energy efficiency, alternative fuel systems, and combustion processes has earned him a reputation as a leader in the field. He was awarded a prestigious TUBITAK International Research Fellowship, which enabled him to conduct postdoctoral research at the University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom, focusing on alternative-fueled engines and combustion systems. Over the years, he has been instrumental in leading innovative projects supported by TUBITAK and the Ministry of Industry and Technology. Dr. Çakır is actively involved in mentoring future researchers and PhD candidates, offering guidance in his areas of expertise, which include combustion modes, ammonia cracking systems, and fuel efficiency in internal combustion engines (ICEs).
Profile
Orcid
Education
Dr. Çakır earned his postdoctoral qualifications at the University of Nottingham, where he worked in the Faculty of Engineering’s Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing, and Materials Engineering from 2018 to 2020. This experience allowed him to deepen his knowledge and conduct high-level research in alternative fuel technologies, combustion, and engine efficiency. His research at Nottingham was centered on developing and testing alternative fuel systems, including the performance of ammonia-based fuels in internal combustion engines. Dr. Çakır’s academic foundation also includes graduate and undergraduate studies, which laid the groundwork for his deep interest in energy systems, thermodynamics, and the challenges of improving engine performance in both environmental and technological contexts.
Experience
With over a decade of experience in the academic field, Dr. Çakır has held various positions at Yildiz Technical University, where he started as an Assistant Professor and was promoted to Associate Professor in 2020. His expertise in marine engineering and combustion research has led to numerous research projects, many of which have been funded by TUBITAK and the Ministry of Industry and Technology. These projects have focused on improving engine performance, reducing emissions, and exploring alternative fuels for internal combustion engines, specifically natural gas and ammonia. His research has not only advanced theoretical understanding but also translated into practical applications, including the development of prototypes for self-propelled machinery used in agriculture. Dr. Çakır has supervised numerous graduate and doctoral students, providing guidance on topics ranging from fuel system optimization to innovative combustion methods. His work is recognized internationally, with invitations to collaborate on various research projects and academic panels.
Research Interests
Dr. Çakır’s primary research interests lie in the areas of alternative fuels, combustion technology, and energy efficiency within internal combustion engines. His ongoing research projects explore novel combustion modes for zero-carbon fuels, such as ammonia and hydrogen, and the development of combustion chambers optimized for these fuels. Another major focus is the design and modeling of ammonia cracking systems to reduce carbon emissions in power systems. Dr. Çakır also investigates laminar flame speeds in various fuel mixtures, using advanced experimental techniques such as schlieren imaging and constant-volume combustion bomb tests to measure and analyze combustion processes. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling is another area of his research, helping to simulate combustion dynamics and improve engine performance and efficiency. Dr. Çakır is particularly interested in the intersection of combustion research and advanced energy technologies, focusing on the future of renewable fuels and their integration into internal combustion engines.
Awards
Dr. Çakır’s contributions to engineering have been recognized by several prestigious awards throughout his career. In December 2018, he received the Grow-tech Agriculture Innovation Prize at the Antalya Chamber of Commerce for his work on agricultural machinery, particularly a prototype for self-propelled pruning residue shredding machines. Additionally, he earned a Gold Medal at the 3rd Istanbul International Inventions Fair in 2018, awarded by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office for his innovative designs in engineering and technology. These accolades reflect his commitment to applied research and the practical impact of his work, which spans both the academic and industrial sectors. Dr. Çakır’s research continues to influence developments in sustainable energy systems and alternative fuel technologies.
Publications
Cakir M., “Effect of Stratified Charge Combustion Chamber Design on Natural Gas Engine Performance,” Energies, vol. 18, no. 9, pp. 1-14, 2025 (SCI-Expanded). Cited by 15.
Cakir M., Gonca G., “Influences of a Novel Pre-chamber Design on the Performance and Emission Characteristics of a Spark Ignition Engine Fueled with Natural Gas,” International Journal of Global Warming, vol. 31, no. 1, pp. 68-81, 2023 (SCI-Expanded). Cited by 12.
Cakir M., Ünal İ., Çanakcı M., “Design and Development of the PLC Based Sensor and Instrumentation System for Self-propelled Pruning Residue Mulcher Prototype,” Computers and Electronics in Agriculture, vol. 186, 2021 (SCI-Expanded). Cited by 8.
Cakir M., “Experimental Dynamic Analysis of the Piston Assembly of a Running Single-cylinder Diesel Engine,” Journal of Marine Engineering and Technology, vol. 20, no. 4, pp. 235-242, 2021 (SCI-Expanded). Cited by 10.
Cakir M., Gonca G., Şahin B., “Performance Characteristics and Emission Formations of a Spark Ignition (SI) Engine Fueled with Different Gaseous Fuels,” Arabian Journal for Science and Engineering, vol. 43, pp. 4487-4499, 2018 (SCI-Expanded). Cited by 9.
Conclusion
Assoc. Prof. Mehmet Çakır’s academic journey reflects a steadfast dedication to advancing the understanding and practical application of sustainable energy technologies. His extensive research in combustion, engine performance optimization, and alternative fuel systems positions him as a leading figure in the field of marine and mechanical engineering. Dr. Çakır’s work continues to influence global research in energy efficiency and low-emission technologies, particularly in the development of new fuels and combustion systems that are crucial to addressing environmental challenges. Through his teaching, mentoring, and research, he has made significant contributions to the development of new technologies and solutions that promise to revolutionize internal combustion engines and other energy systems. Dr. Çakır’s innovative projects and continued dedication to research are helping shape the future of sustainable engineering practices.